Physics with Space Science

Fuel your fascination for space and the technologies we use to investigate it. As well as studying the fundamentals of physics, you’ll explore a range of space-related fields, including the essentials of astronomy, spacecraft design and space weather.

You’ll be prepared for a wide range of careers, from fundamental research to commercial space activities. With the global space market set to increase rapidly, your skills will be in high demand.

You will have access to exceptional research-grade facilities, including a rooftop observatory. We also provide an exciting opportunity in the second year; our top students visit La Laguna University in Tenerife to participate in a design study of a scientific spacecraft.

Your degree will open the door to a wide range of careers, with recent graduates employed in roles ranging from physicists and engineers, to actuaries and statisticians, scientific journalists and medical researchers. Many students go onto further study.

Typical modules include:

Year one: Electricity and Magnetism; Energy and Matter; Introduction to Astronomy and Space Science; Mathematical Methods for Physical Scientists; Motion and Relativity; Physics Skills; Waves, Light and Quanta.

Year two: Classical Mechanics; Electromagnetism; European Dimension in Space; Physics from Evidence I; Quantum Physics; Statistical Mechanics; Wave Physics.

Year three: Advanced Astronautics; Atomic Physics; Computer Techniques in Physics; Crystalline Solids; Dissertation; Nuclei and Particles; Physics from Evidence II; Space Plasma Physics; Theories of Matter, Space and Time.

Year four: MPhys Final Year Synoptic Examination; MPhys Project; Spacecraft Orbital Mechanics; plus additional module options.

Throughout your degree, you’ll also develop key transferable skills such as problem solving, data analysis and computing, which are sought after by a range employers. During year two, you’ll also have access to a programme of physics-focused career sessions, timetabled to fit in with your studies, which include application and interview workshops as well as talks from visiting professionals.

For MPhys programmes, assessment in the first and second year is a mixture of unseen written examinations, marked problem-based coursework and laboratory work. In the third year assessment is mainly by examination, although laboratory-based, computer-based and dissertation modules will use different assessment methods, as appropriate. In the fourth year of the MPhys programmes, laboratory work is replaced by a project which involves continuous assessment, written reports and an oral examination.

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• Physics, Institute of