MSc Astrophysics with Advanced Research
Master
In Hatfield
Description
-
Type
Master
-
Location
Hatfield
-
Duration
2 Years
-
Start date
Different dates available
The MSc Astrophysics with Advanced Research is a two year degree worth 240 credits (120 ECTs), and emulates the structure of taught Masters degrees run in Europe and elsewhere outside the UK.
You’ll develop a thorough grounding in fundamental physics while exploring cutting edge topics about the Universe, its constituents and structure, and humanity’s place within it.
You’ll be trained in observational astrophysics and in the use of theory by carrying out a major research project supervised by a leading expert. Throughout the course, you’ll develop specialised skills in physics research enquiry and problem-solving, critical thinking, scientific writing, communication and presentation, and programming and software application.
The course gives you the unique opportunity to study a wide variety of astrophysical phenomena across many scales enabling you to explore all corners of the Universe. You'll study galactic topics, including:
extra-solar planets
the life cycle of stars
gamma-ray bursters
supernovae.
You’ll also have the opportunity to study extra-galactic topics, including:
active galaxies at high redshift
cosmological theory
the evolution of the universe.
You’ll also have the opportunity to undertake a placement year through the different course pathways.
Facilities
Location
Start date
Start date
About this course
You’ll develop key skills and knowledge in advanced physics, data analysis techniques, and software development, while exploring cutting edge topics in a fast-moving international research field. Your in-depth, specialist physics understanding, and range of technical and mathematical skills mean you’ll be well placed for a career in industrial or scientific research and in a range of STEM areas.
You’ll also be well equipped to progress onto a PhD programme joining a community of graduates who are contributing to cutting-edge research in the field.
Our graduates also find employment in international observatories, research institutions, engineering and financial industries, and teaching.
The normal entry requirements for the programme are:
A good (2.1 or above) Honours degree (or equivalent) in physics, astrophysics, or a closely related subject, where the degree is accredited by a professional statutory regulatory body such as the Institute of Physics (or a body of equivalent standing in a related subject or overseas).
Why choose this course?
Research is at the forefront of the course and is embedded in your student experience from research-informed teaching, to opportunities for direct involvement with ongoing research projects. Your advanced research project has scope to yield a profound impact as your project work progresses understanding in the field.
You’ll be taken on an exciting learning journey led by staff from the University of Hertfordshire Centre for Astrophysics Research. You’ll benefit from their internationally renowned knowledge and experience from the work they carry out across a range of cutting-edge research topics in both galactic and extragalactic astrophysics.
Find out more about the Centre for Astrophysics Research.
The course benefits from a large practical component enabling you to put your knowledge and research into practice. As a student on the course, you’ll have unique access to the University’s own Bayfordbury Observatory. The Observatory is home to:
eight individual domes
a fully equipped computer building
five 40cm Meade telescopes (equipped with CCD detectors)
a solar telescope
a video telescope
four radio telescopes on-site which also facilitates a three-element radio interferometer.
The facilities are automated (with weather sensitive control) so observing can be done either remotely (via queue observing) or directly through on-site student visits.
Reviews
This centre's achievements
All courses are up to date
The average rating is higher than 3.7
More than 50 reviews in the last 12 months
This centre has featured on Emagister for 6 years
Subjects
- Astrophysics
- Project
- GCSE Physics
- Extragalactic
- Galactic
- Techniques
- Analysis methods
- Research
- Teaching
- Development
Course programme
As part of the course, you’ll undertake six compulsory modules focused on the latest cutting-edge research. You’ll study an exciting blend of topics, including:
- galactic and extragalactic astrophysics
- astrophysical techniques and concepts
- fundamental theory
- analysis methods.
The final year of the course includes a major astrophysics research project supervised by a leading expert in your chosen field. Project teaching comprises of individual supervision and guidance to support your development as a researcher. You’ll also carry out an in-depth exploration of the scientific literature and present seminars on key astrophysics topics linked to your project.
MSc Astrophysics with Advanced Research