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Study Astrophysics, why & how to study

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

CHOOSING A COURSE POSTGRADUATE UNDERGRADUATE

Tamsin Mosse 31 Oct 2023

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Space and stars with deep purple and blue tones

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?

What’s Astrophysics?

Astrophysics is the exploration of the universe and how the laws of physics apply to astronomical objects and phenomena. Choose this subject at university, and you’ll develop your understanding of the physics of astronomy, covering topics from black holes to extrasolar planets.

What Astrophysics degrees can you study?

Undergraduate Astrophysics degrees on offer in the UK include:

Several options include an industry placement year as part of the course.

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, and 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 accreditations:

Degrees may be accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) providing a route towards professional membership

Read our six reasons to study Physics and Astronomy here.

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

Some universities offer Astrophysics students specific scholarships, bursaries, or grants so 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.

What jobs can you get as an Astrophysics graduate?

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