Astrophysics

The Institute of Mathematics and Physics has for some time offered a degree in Planetary and Space Physics; but our new Astrophysics degree is designed more for students who have a general interest in Astronomy. We believe there are many potential students who know they are interested in Astronomy, but do not want to confine themselves to one particular area. So this new degree will offer broader modules in cosmology and galactic astronomy, enabling you to keep your options open. You can then specialise later on, if you develop an interest in one specific field. The addition of the possibility of progressing to an MPhys degree is also new.

Astrophysics Degree Year 1

The degree covers areas of study that include: the formation and evolution of the solar system, gas-giant and terrestrial worlds, planetary interiors and surfaces, planetary atmospheres, the Sun as a star, comets, red-giants, white dwarfs, neutron stars, black holes, galaxies, quasars, the solar wind and cosmology. Over the three or four years of the course, about half of this Physics degree course is devoted to specialist modules in astrophysics, and half to modules in physics.. In Year 1, the emphasis is on laying foundations; so there are core modules in all the main branches of classical Physics, as you would find them in all Physics degrees, together with one core module devoted entirely to the fundamentals of Astronomy.

Astrophysics Degree Years 2 + 3

In Years 2 + 3, the degree opens up more areas with core modules in Astrophysics and Cosmology and in Planetary and Atmospheric Physics. Meanwhile, your skills in the core areas of classical Physics are taken into new areas, with a more thorough understanding, for example, of Quantum Mechanics and Thermal Physics. Years 2+3 build towards the final year individual project - for many students the highlight of all their studies, in which all the knowledge and skills they have gained are brought to bear upon a topic or problem which they find particularly inspiring. Students then have the possibility of moving to the MPhys in year 4.