Physics and Astrophysics

Study the matter of our universe and the laws that govern it with our accredited Physics and Astrophysics MPhys course. Gain fundamental knowledge necessary for a successful future career and spend most of your final year working on your own research project.

This four-year accredited MPhys Physics and Astrophysics course will give you the skills, knowledge and research experience you’ll need for a successful career.

Our Institute of Physics accredited course has more astrophysics content than most. Along with essential physics modules, half of your time will be dedicated to studying astrophysics and you’ll complete a year-long research project in your final year.

In your first two years, you’ll study fundamental physics theories such as heat, motion and quantum mechanics. You’ll also explore key concepts in astrophysics, including the formation of our solar system, stars and galaxies, the evolution of our universe and observing the night sky.

You’ll have access to the two telescopes on the roof of our building from your first year. We also run a telescope on La Palma in the Canary Islands, which students can use during our annual field trip and during their final year project.

From the start of your degree, you’ll gain hands-on experience in our specialist teaching lab, developing lab skills and learning how theories can be applied in the real world. You’ll also take part in programming classes, which will teach you skills that are valuable in a variety of graduate careers ranging from data science to computer game design.

In your third year, you'll have the opportunity to explore a variety of optional modules on subjects including dark matter and nuclear physics. You’ll also get the chance to complete an astrophysics research project, a Quantum Information Laboratory project, physics education and outreach project, or work with an external partner on an industrial group project. Through your project, you’ll gain valuable hands-on experience in an area of your choosing.

In your fourth year, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your research skills through advanced study and a year-long research project. You’ll work with academic researchers who are experts in their field to investigate a real scientific question.

Alongside research experience, you’ll also gain time management, project planning and analysis skills, which are valuable for careers in research or industry.

Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) for the purpose of fully meeting the educational requirement for Chartered Physicist.

Why study this course?

• 1st in the UK for the quality of physics research: Research Excellence Framework 2021

• Top 20 in the UK for physics and astronomy: Complete University Guide 2025

• Institute of Physics (IOP) accredited course: This course is accredited by the IOP for fully meeting the educational requirement for Chartered Physicist.

• Build connections and a career: Opt to spend a full year on a work placement. Our students have secured placements with a range of organisations, including CERN, Jaguar Land Rover, Sellafield, EDF Energy, UKRI and the Isaac Newton Group of Telescopes.