Physics with Astrophysics

Physics with Astrophysics at Queen's University Belfast offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the fundamental principles governing the universe. This undergraduate programme is designed for students with a keen interest in understanding the nature of matter, energy, space, and time, and combines core physics disciplines with specialized astrophysics topics. Throughout the course, students acquire a solid foundation in classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, and mathematical methods essential for advanced scientific analysis. The astrophysics component introduces students to the study of celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and the methods used to observe and analyze the universe, including spectroscopy, telescopic instrumentation, and data analysis techniques.

The programme provides practical laboratory experience, allowing students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world experiments and to develop critical analytical skills. Opportunities for fieldwork, collaborative projects, and engaging with cutting-edge research ensure that students gain valuable hands-on experience and foster innovative thinking. The coursework is complemented by lectures from leading academics and researchers, offering insights into current challenges and developments in physics and astrophysics. Students are encouraged to undertake independent projects, promoting self-directed learning and scientific inquiry.

Queen's University Belfast’s Physics with Astrophysics programme is aligned with industry standards and research trends, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, space agencies, technology firms, and science communication. The programme emphasizes employability skills such as problem-solving, technical proficiency, and scientific communication, which are highly valued across a broad range of career paths. Graduates leaving the programme will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to scientific advancements and technological innovations. Whether students aim to pursue further study or enter the workforce directly, this programme provides a rigorous and enriching educational experience within a vibrant academic community committed to excellence in science.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 4160 Year (EEA)
• EUR 13380 Year (Non-EEA)

England, Scotland and Wales £9,000; EU £3,575; International: £11,500

• English

Course Content

Stage 1

Students study Physics, Applied Mathematics, and, if desired, a third subject such as Computer Science. Physics topics include:

• Atomic and nuclear physics
• Electromagnetism
• Optics and lasers
• Quantum theory
• Relativity
• Solid state physics
• Thermal physics

Practical work includes the use of computers in physics, as well as a full range of experiments designed to develop laboratory skills, allowing students to experience phenomena covered in lectures. Tutorials, and problems set in connection with them, give experience in verbal and written communication, and in problem-solving.

Stages 2 and 3

Physics may be studied either as a Single Honours degree, as Physics, Physics with Astrophysics, Physics with Biomedical Applications, Physics with Extended Studies in Europe, Physics with Financial Mathematics, or Theoretical Physics; or depending on choice of Stage 1 modules, as a Joint Honours degree in conjunction with Applied Mathematics or Computer Science.

At Stage 2, according to degree selection, modules are taken which reveal the excitement of such areas as:

• Astronomy
• Atoms, Nuclei and Radiation
• Modern Physics
• Optics, Electricity and Magnetism
• Physics of the Solid State

Physics project work develops the skills of planning, carrying out and analysing experiments and simulations, and provides opportunities for deepening understanding of the wide applicability of physics.

At Stage 3, a choice of modules is made to develop further understanding of such areas as:

• Astrophysics
• Atomic and Molecular Physics
• Electromagnetic Radiation and Modern Optics
• Nuclear and Fundamental Particle Physics
• Optoelectronics and Physical Electronic
• Physics in Medicine
• Quantum Mechanics and Relativity
• Solid State Physics

Project work entails a major experimental or computational investigation of a particular physics problem; in conjunction with this a project report and associated poster are produced to a professional standard.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

BSc Applied Mathematics and Physics, BSc Theoretical Physics

• A-level A (Mathematics) BB including Physics
• Irish Leaving Certificate AB2B2B2B2 including Higher Level grade A in Mathematics and Higher Level grade B2 in Physics

Sc Physics with Financial Mathematics

• A-level AAB at A-level including grade A in Mathematics and Physics
  OR
  A* (Mathematics) A (Physics) C
• Irish Leaving Certificate AAB2B2B2C including Higher Level grade A in Mathematics and Physics

BSc other options

• A-level BBB at A-level including Mathematics and Physics
• Irish Leaving Certificate B2B2B2B2CC/B2B2B2B2B2 including Higher Level grade B2 in Mathematics and Physics

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Queen's University Belfast.

Funding

Students in the School can benefit from scholarships and bursaries provided by the School of Mathematics and Physics and by external companies.

Accreditation

The degrees are accredited by the Institute of Physics with the exception of the new Physics with Financial Mathematics pathway, for which accreditation will be sought in the near future. Since it contains all the core physics elements common to the other accredited pathways it is anticipated that this accreditation will be granted.