Physics with Astrophysics MPhys, BSc

Course overview

From studying planets around other stars to the most distant galaxies, astrophysics explores the wonders of the universe and our place in it. This field is constantly evolving, with new inventions and discoveries happening every day, which is why it’s still such a highly sought-after and relevant discipline.

Studying physics with astrophysics at Leeds will give you the chance to delve deep into the fundamental laws that govern the universe and learn leading techniques in observation and simulation by active researchers who’re using them to uncover new mysteries in the cosmos. During your final year, you’ll also have the chance to collaborate with our astrophysicists on current research projects.

Throughout your degree, you’ll have access to specialised facilities right here on campus, including the School’s observatory on the roof of the Sir William Henry Bragg Building. Here, you’ll have chance to get hands-on training in using optical telescopes and modern detectors, preparing you for working in industry.

Our close industry links and innovative research activity ensure this course reflects the latest advancements and applications in physics and astrophysics. You'll graduate with the specialist knowledge, skills and experience necessary to launch a successful career in this highly valued profession, with a wide range of career options available to you.

Why study at Leeds:

• This course is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP).
• Access specialist facilities right here on campus, including our very own observatory where you can use optical telescopes to image objects in the night sky.
• Our School’s globally-renowned research feeds into the course, shaping what you learn with the latest thinking.
• Learn from expert academics and researchers who specialise in a variety of physics and astrophysics areas.
• Our comprehensive approach to teaching and assessment will give you a holistic understanding of how physics, mathematics, computing and experimental learning link together to qualify you as a physicist.
• Broaden your experience before you graduate and enhance your career prospects with our study abroad programmes and industrial work placement opportunities.
• Make the most of your time at Leeds by joining AstroSoc where you can meet fellow star enthusiasts, enjoy regular stargazing sessions, go on trips and gain fascinating insight from industry professionals at regular talks and networking events throughout your degree.

Accreditation

Institute of Physics (IOP)

Accreditation is the assurance that a university course meets the quality standards established by the relevant professional body.

This course is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP).

This integrated Masters degree (MPhys, BSc) guarantees you eligibility for IOP membership and is accredited as fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a registered scientist (RSci) and to qualify as a chartered physicist (CPhys).

Course details

We are currently reviewing our curriculum as part of a university-wide process. As a result, we are unable to publish module information for this course at this time. The information below provides an overview of what you’ll study and our approach to teaching and assessment. We will update this page as soon as the changes are confirmed. Read more in our terms and conditions.

This content was last updated on 3 April 2023.

We've designed this course to enable you to develop your physics and astrophysics knowledge alongside the mathematical, computational and experimental methods that are needed to become qualified as a physicist. From the outset, you’ll learn about stars and galaxies before delving into details on the birth, lives and death of stars, extremely energetic phenomena and the evolution of the whole universe.

As you move through the programme, you'll increasingly build on your solid foundation to learn about and work on the latest developments in the subject, based on our research expertise.

Throughout your degree, you’ll get hands-on experience through project work. This gives you the opportunity to explore your subject further as well as developing valuable skills in problem solving, communication and teamwork.

We also take a competency-based approach to assessment, to enable you to demonstrate your skills and knowledge across a range of activities.

Discovery modules are available in the first year of your degree.

Each academic year, you'll take a total of 120 credits.

Years 1 and 2

You’ll learn the foundations of astrophysics in terms of the properties of stars and galaxies, before gaining in-depth knowledge on how they evolve and can lead to extreme environments such as black holes. You'll also gain knowledge and skills in physics and learn how to apply them to solve problems across fundamental areas including electrodynamics, thermal physics, classical mechanics, quantum physics, solid state physics, waves, optics, contemporary physics, astrophysics and physics for sustainable development. We’ll also cover topics such as ethics, philosophy and career options in physics.

Throughout years 1 and 2, you’ll use specialist undergraduate teaching laboratories for experimental physics classes. In year 2, you’ll work in our Scriven Bolton Observatory which houses two 35 cm optical telescopes which you’ll use to train in the technique of multi-colour imaging with CCD detectors.

During year 1, you’ll take the 100-credit physics compulsory module, alongside 20 credits of discovery modules. Year 2, compulsory modules make up 80 of the credits plus 40 credits of astrophysics.

Year 3

In your third year, your work will be closely linked to current research. How stars and planets actually form is a key topic, as well as the evolution of the universe via studying cosmology. Other advanced modules on physics research topics are also available, such as: spintronics, quantum optics and photonics, bionanophysics, quantum information, molecular simulation, advanced mechanics, medical physics, and physics education research.

We also offer work-related modules that involve innovation projects or short work placements. Our students are also able to study higher-level modules offered by the Schools of Medicine, Mathematics, Earth and Environment, Chemical Engineering, and Philosophy.

To prepare you for your final year research project, year 3 features a course on advanced observational and numerical astrophysical techniques, which emphasises open-ended investigations and includes written and verbal presentations.

Your year 3 credits equate to 120 throughout the year. You’ll take 40 credits of advanced techniques, 40 credits of advanced astrophysics and 40 credits of optional modules.

Year 4

For your final year project, you'll work as part of an internationally recognised research team on an open-ended project. You'll plan and organise your work, follow it through and present your results. This is a wonderful opportunity to take part and contribute to the latest astrophysics research. Some of our students even get to publish their research project in peer-reviewed journals.

You'll also get to study how violent phenomena shape the galaxies we see today. A range of other specialist Masters modules are available that will take you to the forefront of research in topics such as: general relativity and black holes, quantum field theory, liquid crystals, superconductivity and the physics of biological systems.

Your research project makes up 60 credits, plus you’ll take 60 credits of optional modules from 4 optional blocks.

One-year optional work placement or study abroad

During your course, you’ll be given the opportunity to advance your skill set and experience further. You can apply to either undertake a one-year work placement or study abroad for a year, choosing from a selection of universities we’re in partnership with worldwide.

Learning outcomes

As well as a deep understanding of physics, by the end of your degree, you’ll have developed the following skills:

• Think creatively to solve a problem or create new knowledge.
• Deploy complex problem-solving techniques.
• Deepen your understanding of the nature of the universe, from the infinitesimal to the infinite.
• Ability to model problems and make estimations.
• Use coding and mathematical tools to solve physics problems.
• Undertake critical evaluation of information and rigorous analysis of data.
• Develop your professionalism, including communicating effectively in verbal, written and multimedia formats, and planning and completing work to deadlines.
• Work effectively as part of a team.
• Be enterprising and be able to identify and realise opportunities.
• Ability to evaluate your own strengths and identify areas for development.
• Undertake experimental work to make accurate measurements of physical and astrophysical phenomena.
• Understand and use appropriate techniques to design experiments.
• Ability to apply appropriate methods for error analysis and statistical significance.
• Utilise digital datasets to learn about astronomical phenomena.

Learning and teaching

On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

Entry requirements

A-level: AAB including Physics and Mathematics.

Excludes A Level General Studies and Critical Thinking.

Where an A Level science subject is taken, we require a pass in the practical science element, alongside the achievement of the A Level at the stated grade.

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), International Project Qualification (IPQ) and Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (ASCC): We recognise the value of these qualifications and the effort and enthusiasm that applicants put into them, and where an applicant offers an A in the EPQ, IPQ or ASCC we may make an offer of ABB at A-Level.

GCSE: English Language at grade C (4) or above, or an appropriate English language qualification. We will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English in lieu of GCSE English.

Alternative qualification

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is an alternative admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and alternative admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds A Level offer: BBB including physics and mathematics. Excluding General Studies and Critical Thinking.

If you do not have the formal qualifications for immediate entry to one of our degrees, you may be able to progress through a foundation year. We offer a Studies in Science with Foundation Year BSc for students without a science background at A-level and an Interdisciplinary Science with Foundation Year BSc for applicants who meet specific widening participation criteria.

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any one component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

Fees

UK: £9,250 (per year)

International: £30,250 (per year)

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2023/24 and 2024/25
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students are set by the UK Government and will remain capped at £9,250 for 2023/24 and 2024/25. The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation only as a consequence of future changes in Government legislation and as permitted by law.

Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2023/24 and 2024/25
Tuition fees for international students for 2023/24 and 2024/25 are available on individual course pages.

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

Additional cost information

Whilst there are no compulsory additional costs, it would be helpful to bring your own calculator. You’ll have access to all the recommended texts and a vast supply of books and academic journals from the university libraries.

You’ll also have access to the extensive IT facilities on campus including 24/7 computer clusters with everything you need to complete your work.

However, you may wish to purchase your own books and/or computer.

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more about additional costs.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

Applying

Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

We may consider applications submitted after the deadline. Availability of courses in UCAS Extra will be detailed on UCAS at the appropriate stage in the cycle.

Read our guidance about applying and writing your personal statement.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy 2024

This course is taught by

School of Physics and Astronomy

Contact us

School of Physics and Astronomy Undergraduate Admissions Enquiries

Email: physics.admissions@leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:

Career opportunities

There are extensive employment opportunities in the field of physics across numerous industries, which is why physics graduates are in demand for some of the highest paid and most satisfying roles in employment.

Plus, University of Leeds students are among the top 10 most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2023, High Fliers Research, meaning our graduates are highly sought after by some of the most reputable companies in the field.

Qualifying with a degree in physics from Leeds will set you up with the numerical, analytical and problem-solving skills and specialist subject knowledge needed to pursue an exciting career across a wide range of sectors, including:

• Aerospace
• IT
• Engineering
• Finance (including Fintech)
• Medical Physics
• Patent Attorney
• Tech Consulting
• Aerospace
• Electronics
• Energy
• Teaching
• Environment
• Science Journalism
• Research

Throughout your course – especially in your final year research project – you'll have the chance to advance your knowledge and experience, whilst developing widely transferable skills desirable to employers including teamwork, independent research, analysis and communication.

Here’s an insight into the job roles some of our most recent physics graduates have obtained:

• Astrophysicist, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
• Clinical Scientist, Christie Hospital NHS Trust
• Electronic Engineer, NASA
• IT Specialist, IBM
• Nuclear Engineer, Rolls Royce Submarines
• Nuclear Independent Oversight Inspector, Sellafield Limited
• Physicist, AMEC
• Research Scientist, National Physical Laboratory
• Science Teacher
• Scientific Officer, Met. Office

Read our alumni profiles to find out more about where our students are working.

Careers support

Study abroad and work placements

Study abroad

Studying abroad is a unique opportunity to explore the world, whilst gaining invaluable skills and experience that could enhance your future employability and career prospects too.

From Europe to Asia, the USA to Australasia, we have many University partners worldwide you can apply to, spanning across some of the most popular destinations for students.

This programme offers you the option to spend time abroad as an extra academic year and will extend your studies by 12 months.

Once you’ve successfully completed your year abroad, you'll be awarded the ‘international’ variant in your degree title which demonstrates your added experience to future employers.

Find out more about Study abroad.

Work placements

A placement year is a great way to help you decide on a career path when you graduate. You’ll develop your skills and gain a real insight into working life in a particular company or sector. It will also help you to stand out in a competitive graduate jobs market and improve your chances of securing the career you want.

Benefits of a work placement year:

• 100+ organisations to choose from, both in the UK and overseas
• Build industry contacts within your chosen field
• Our close industry links mean you’ll be in direct contact with potential employers
• Advance your experience and skills by putting the course teachings into practice
• Gain invaluable insight into working as a professional in this industry
• Improve your employability

If you decide to undertake a placement year, this will extend your period of study by 12 months and, on successful completion, you'll be awarded the ‘industrial’ variant in your degree title to demonstrate your added experience to future employers.

With the help and support of our dedicated Employability team, you can find the right placement to suit you and your future career goals.

Here are some examples of placements our students have recently completed:

• RF, IT, Secure Networks & Communications 2021 Year in Industry, QinetiQ
• Industrial Placement - Technology Network Engineering, Vodafone Limited
• Pricing and Supply Chain Analyst, Solidigm
• QA Engineer, Elder Studios Ltd
• Software Engineer, Renishaw

Find out more about Industrial placements.

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