Astrophysics BSc
Bachelor's degree
In London
Description
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Type
Bachelor's degree
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Location
London
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Duration
3 Years
In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 15 or 30 credits, adding up to a total of 120 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 30-credit module is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).
Core modules in the first two years provide a grounding in mathematics and classical and quantum physics. You will also undertake modules which build up an increasing exposure to topics in astronomy and astrophysics. This starts in the first year with core modules in Physics of the Universe and Practical Astronomy. This is followed in the second year by Astrophysical Processes: Nebulae to Stars and Practical Astrophysics, leading into core third-year modules in Interstellar Physics, Physical Cosmology, and Astronomical Spectroscopy. The third year also provides for optional modules to further enhance and enrich your knowledge of astrophysics topics.
Facilities
Location
Start date
Start date
About this course
The programme is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) and includes the very latest developments and discoveries in the field, based on our highly rated research.
Collaborative links with both industry and international research laboratories provide insight into the practical application of your studies.
You will undertake practical work at the UCL Observatory (UCLO) and benefit from our close association with the Royal Astronomical Society.
Your scientific training will equip you with an understanding of mathematics, and of physical principles and techniques, as well as transferable skills in analysis, rational argument and innovative problem solving. Surveys by the IOP indicate that physicists' versatility is welcomed by a vast range of professions.
Around half our graduates choose to pursue further study for an MSc or PhD. A PhD opens up the possibility of an academic or research career in a university or research institute. Alternatively, like many of our graduates, you may consider employment in research, design, development, computing, finance, marketing and teaching, among others.
English Language and Mathematics at grade C or 5. For UK-based students, a grade C or 5 or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required.
This programme is accredited by the Institute of Physics. Holders of accredited degrees can follow a route to Institute of Physics membership and the Chartered Physicist (CPhys) professional qualification. Graduates of accredited Integrated Master's (MPhys or MSci) degrees have fulfilled the educational requirements for CPhys status, while graduates of accredited Bachelor's (BSc) degrees have partially fulfilled these requirements.
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Subjects
- Astronomy
- Astrophysics
- GCSE Physics
- Mathematical
- Mathematical methods
- Mechanics
- Physics
- Magnetism Mathematical
- Solar System
- Quantum Physics Statistical
- Quantum Physics
- Thermodynamics
Course programme
Core or compulsory module(s)
- Classical Mechanics
- Mathematical Methods I
- Mathematical Methods II
- Practical Skills 1A
- Practical Skills 1C
- Physics of the Universe
- Thermal Physics
- Waves, Optics and Acoustics
All first-year modules are compulsory.
YEAR 2
- Astrophysical Processes: Nebulae to Stars
- Electricity and Magnetism
- Mathematical Methods III
- Physics of the Solar System
- Practical Astrophysics 2A
- Quantum Physics
- Statistical Thermodynamics
One optional module from the following list:
- Astrobiology
- Environmental Physics
- Mathematics for Physics and Astronomy
YEAR 3
Core or compulsory module(s)
- Astronomical Spectroscopy
- Interstellar Physics
- Physical Cosmology
- The Physics of Stars
- Practical Astronomy 1 - Techniques
You will select one of the following:
- Group Project
- Practical Astronomy 2 - Applications
- Astrophysics Group Project
You will also select 1.0 credits of astrophysics options. Options may include:
- Astrobiology
- Electromagnetic Theory
- Energy and Climate
- Nuclear and Particle Physics
- Physics of Oceans, Ice Sheets and Climate (1.0 credits)
- Physics of the Earth
- Quantum Mechanics
- Scientific Computing Using Object Oriented Languages
- Theory of Dynamical Systems
Teaching is delivered through lectures, laboratory (and as appropriate, observatory) practical sessions, and supervised problem-solving tutorials. These tutorials are designed to deal with lecture-based questions, enlarge on topics addressed in lectures, and allow clarification and in-depth discussion of new concepts.
AssessmentAssessment will normally involve end-of-year examinations, and an element of assessed coursework. For practical work you will be continuously assessed.
Additional information
Astrophysics BSc