Physics with Astrophysics

Physics with Astrophysics at Queen's University Belfast offers students a comprehensive and inspiring education in the fundamental principles of physics while providing a specialized focus on astrophysics. This degree programme is designed to equip students with a solid understanding of classical and modern physics, including mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum physics, and relativity, laying a strong foundation for further scientific exploration and research. Throughout the course, students will engage with cutting-edge topics such as astrophysics, cosmology, and space science, exploring the universe's origin, structure, and fundamental phenomena.

The programme combines rigorous theoretical coursework with practical laboratory work and computational skills, enabling students to develop a versatile skill set applicable in academia, industry, and research institutions. Emphasizing experimental techniques, data analysis, and mathematical methods, the programme prepares graduates for careers in scientific research, astronomy, aerospace engineering, data science, and education. Many modules integrate computational astrophysics, allowing students to simulate astrophysical phenomena and analyze real astronomical data.

Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including telescopes, laboratory equipment, and computer resources, enhancing their learning and research experience. The degree includes opportunities for independent projects, dissertations, and potential collaborations with international research institutions, fostering an environment of innovation and inquiry. Additionally, the programme encourages engagement with public astronomy, science communication, and outreach activities, nurturing well-rounded scientists with a passion for sharing knowledge.

Queen's University's vibrant academic community and strong links with industry provide students with valuable networking opportunities, internships, and placements that support career development. Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for postgraduate study or employment in sectors such as astrophysics research, aerospace technology, data analysis, or science communication. By combining theoretical rigor with practical application, the Physics with Astrophysics programme at Queen's University Belfast aims to inspire the next generation of scientists to explore the cosmos and contribute to advancing our understanding of the universe.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 4160 Year (EEA)
• EUR 13360 Year (Non-EEA)

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

• English

Course Content

MSci (Master in Science)

These four-year degrees are aimed at the more able and committed students who intend to practise the profession of physics in research and development, in industry or academia, at the highest level.
Single Honours MSci options are available in Physics, Physics with Medical Applications, Physics with Astrophysics, Physics with Extended Studies in Europe and Theoretical Physics. A Joint Honours MSci option is also available in Applied Mathematics and Physics.

Transfer from the three-year BSc degree to the MSci is permitted up to the end of Stage 2. Students who successfully complete the four- year MSci qualify for the degree of MSci (Hons) in the relevant option.
Stages 1 and 2 are identical to those for the BSc degree. At Stage 3, a selection is made from the modules available for the BSc. Also studied are the Professional Skills Programme - where important skills are developed, such as computer programming in C, multimedia presentation, and personal projection - and Synoptic Physics - where a variety of scientific themes such as symmetry, people in physics, ecology and cosmology is studied in depth, with cross-links being emphasised.

At Stage 4, specialist modules are available, broadly reflecting research interests of those teaching in the Department. These modules are:

Astrophysics
Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics
Condensed Matter and Materials Science
Laser and Plasma Physics
Medical Devices and Applications

Also in this year, a major project is carried out in association with one of these research divisions, and through this project students gain an intensive insight into modern research methods.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

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

Requirements

MSci Applied Mathematics and Physics, MSci Theoretical Physics

• A-level AAA including Mathematics and Physics
  OR
  A* (Mathematics) AB including Physics
• Irish Leaving Certificate AAB2B2B2B2 including Higher Level grade A in Mathematics and Physics

MSci other options

• A-level AAB at A-level including Mathematics and Physics
• Irish Leaving Certificate AB2B2B2B2B2 including Higher Level grade A and B2 in any order in Mathematics and Physics

Note:

For Physics with Extended Studies in Europe the chosen language must be offered at A-level or equivalent. The language options available are French or Spanish.

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.