DEGREE GUIDE

Astrophysics

What do Astrophysics degrees involve?

Astrophysics degrees teach you how to apply the principles of physics and mathematics to understand the universe, from the smallest particles to the largest galaxies. You will explore key areas such as cosmology, stellar evolution, black holes, planetary science, and space-time physics. These courses help you develop strong problem-solving, computational, and analytical skills while learning how to interpret astronomical data and use telescopes, simulations, and coding to model space phenomena. You will also gain hands-on experience through observatory visits, research projects, and data analysis exercises. With a combination of theoretical learning and practical application, you’ll be prepared for careers in scientific research, space technology, computing, and data science.

Example
Modules

Mathematics for Scientists: Build essential maths skills for physics, including calculus, vectors and linear algebra, to model and analyse physical systems.

Scientific Skills: Develop core skills in laboratory work, measurement, data handling and scientific writing through practical physics experiments.

Quantum Mechanics: Study how particles behave at atomic and subatomic scales, exploring wave-particle duality, uncertainty and quantum states.

Common Degree Names

💼 Some courses include a placement year in research or aerospace organisations.
🌍 Study abroad is offered at some universities.

BSc (Hons) Astrophysics
BSc (Hons) Physics with Astrophysics
MSci Astrophysics
MPhys Astrophysics
BSc (Hons) Mathematics and Astrophysics

Astrophysics is usually offered as a BSc or integrated MSci/MPhys for advanced research preparation.

Level 3 (A-level / IB Diploma (HL) / Scottish Highers)

Astrophysics lets you explore the universe – from stars and galaxies to black holes and the Big Bang. Because you'll use physics and advanced mathematics to understand cosmic phenomena, universities need strong foundations in both.

You'll need:

Maths – essential for all Astrophysics courses
Physics – essential or strongly preferred

Subjects that could strengthen your application:

Further Maths – highly recommended for theoretical courses
Computer Science or Chemistry – useful supporting subjects

✨ Maths and Physics together are the foundation you need. If it's available, adding Further Maths keeps the most competitive courses open for you.

Many universities also welcome a wide range of equivalent qualifications, such as:

BTEC Extended Diplomas in Applied Science, Engineering or IT (with substantial maths/physics content; some courses may also ask for A-level Maths)
T-levels in Engineering & Manufacturing or Digital Production, Design & Development (course dependent)
International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) with a STEM pathway

✨ Entry expectations and required subjects vary—always check each university’s website for the exact subjects and entry criteria for your chosen course.

Level 2 Qualifications (GCSE / MYP / National 5)

Most courses ask for:

GCSE English Language, Maths and Science at grade 4/C or above, or equivalents such as National 5s or MYP

📘 A strong grounding in Maths and Science at this level will help with the analytical nature of Astrophysics.

💬 Interviews

Oxford and Cambridge interview shortlisted applicants for related Physics/Astrophysics courses.
Most other universities do not interview.

📝 Admissions Tests
Some highly selective courses may require/accept a test such as:

PAT (Physics Admissions Test)
ESAT (Engineering & Science Admissions Test)
A few courses may set a short maths/physics assessment—check the course page for details.

🔭 Portfolio / Projects
Not required, but evidence of interest—coding projects, astronomy clubs, telescope/observatory work, citizen-science projects—can strengthen a personal statement.

If your qualifications don't match the usual entry requirements, there are some other possibilities.

🌱 Foundation Year in Physics/Engineering
A good route if you’re missing Further Maths or want additional preparation before the degree.

🎓 Access to HE Diploma (Science or Engineering)
Accepted by many universities when the course includes calculus, algebra and physics units; strong results in quantitative modules are important.

💼 Level 3 Apprenticeships
There is not currently an apprenticeship pathway into Astrophysics

Is this degree right for you?

Members can explore whether this degree fits who they are:

Skills you'd develop and whether they match your strengths
How this aligns with your interests, motivators and values
Career paths and where graduates end up

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Skills you would develop in an Astrophysics degree

Scientific & Laboratory Methods: Use telescopes, simulations, and experiments to study the physics of the universe.
Analytical & Critical Thinking: Apply physics and mathematics to understand stars, galaxies, and cosmology.
Research & Data Analysis: Collect, analyse, and interpret large sets of astrophysical data.
Numeracy & Financial Literacy: Use advanced mathematics and statistics to solve astrophysical problems.
Digital Literacy & IT Skills: Work confidently with coding, data modelling, and specialised software.
Problem-Solving: Tackle challenging questions about the nature and origins of the universe.
Communication (Written, Verbal, Digital): Present complex astrophysical ideas and research findings in clear ways.
Adaptability & Resilience: Adapt to new scientific theories, discoveries, and technological tools.
Teamwork & Collaboration: Collaborate with scientists and researchers on shared projects and experiments.

Is this a good fit for you?

Use the tabs to explore the kind of person that this would be a good fit for. Do you share the Interests, Motivations and Values that people who thrive in this course tend to have? How does it compare to your Holland code?

Not sure what your Holland Code is? Want to get a better understanding of yourself to help you understand if this would fit you? Explore our pages on Self-Knowledge here.

Interests that would make an Astrophysics degree a good match for you

Careers an Astrophysics degree could lead you to