Study Astrophysics, why & how to study

Explore the wonders of the universe with Astrophysics. Use our guide to see if the subject area, and a career as an astrophysicist, are for you.

CHOOSING A COURSE POSTGRADUATE UNDERGRADUATE

Stephanie Butler 02 Feb 2024

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What’s Astrophysics?
What Astrophysics degrees can you study?
What do you need to get onto an Astrophysics degree?
What topics does an Astrophysics degree cover?
How will you be assessed?
Why study Astrophysics?
Are scholarships and bursaries available to students studying an Astrophysics degree?
What do Astrophysics graduates earn?
What jobs can you get as an Astrophysics graduate?
What are the postgraduate opportunities?
Similar subjects to Astrophysics
Have any questions?

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What’s Astrophysics?

Astrophysics is the exploration of the universe. It’s all about how the laws of physics apply to astronomical objects and phenomena.

Study this subject, and you’ll develop your understanding of the physics of astronomy. You’ll cover topics like black holes, extrasolar planets, electromagnetism, thermodynamics and much more.

Take a look at the university league table for Physics and Astromony.

What Astrophysics degrees can you study?

Undergraduate Astrophysics degrees on offer in the UK include:

Astrophysics BSc/MSci/MPhys

You can study undergraduate Astrophysics and gain a BSc (Bachelor of Science) degree. Many universities offer an integrated master’s year as an addition to the course. You can earn an MSci (Master of Science) or an MPhys (Master of Physics).

Search for Astrophysics courses.

Physics with Astrophysics BSc/MSci/MPhys

This course will give you a solid foundation in both subject areas, and how the two overlap. You’ll learn how to apply the principles of Physics to Astrophysics, helping you understand the workings of celestial phenomena.

Find Physics with Astrophysics courses.

Other options

Common courses include:

Physics with Nuclear Astrophysics
Physics, Astrophysics and Cosmology

Many universities will offer an industry placement or research project as part of the course. January starts are often available, as well as integrated foundation years and study abroad opportunities.

What do you need to get onto an Astrophysics degree?

Must have

Most undergraduate Astrophysics courses ask for around 120–168 UCAS points. Not every university will base an offer on UCAS points. Some courses may have lower or higher requirements.

A Levels: AAA–BBB
BTECs: D*DD–DDM
Scottish Highers: AAAA–AABB
International Baccalaureate: 38–30
Universities will usually ask that you have studied physics and mathematics

Good to have

Studied subjects like:

Information technology
Chemistry
Biology
Psychology
Computer science

Experiences that would look good on your application:

Membership of a physics or astronomy club
Volunteering or work experience with an astronomy-related organisation

What topics does an Astrophysics degree cover?

Typical modules for courses in this subject include:

Quantum physics and electromagnetism
Quantum mechanics and relativity
Particle and atomic physics
Big bang cosmology
Mathematics for physics
Thermal properties of matter

How will you be assessed?

Depending on your modules, you could be assessed through:

Lab reports
Presentations
Peer assessments
Critical reviews of scientific literature
Written exams
Assessed coursework

Why study Astrophysics?

Career-specific skills:

Astronomical observation
Data analysis
Computer programming
Experimental techniques
Mathematical modelling

Transferable skills:

Time management
Teamwork
Communication
Independent research
Problem-solving
Numeracy
Computer literacy
Logical thinking

Professional accreditation:

Degrees may be accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), which helps you towards professional membership.

Read reasons to study Physics and Astronomy.

Are scholarships and bursaries available to students studying an Astrophysics degree?

Some universities offer Astrophysics students specific scholarships, bursaries, or grants. It’s worth checking if you are eligible, how to apply and what it covers such as materials, tuition fees and/or living costs.

What do Astrophysics graduates earn?

When starting as a graduate astrophysicist, you can expect an entry-level salary of around £26,000.

The average salary for an astrophysicist in the UK is around £40,000, especially for PhD holders or experienced professionals. Salaries can exceed £60,000 for those in high-level positions.

Read more on what graduates do and earn.

What jobs can you get as an Astrophysics graduate?

Astrophysics graduates work for industries ranging from finance to renewable energy. Potential employers include the European Space Agency, Rolls-Royce and Barclays. Examples of roles that graduates go into: