Astrophysics (MPhys)

at Cardiff University

Course structure

 

This is a four-year full-time degree. The course includes a carefully chosen balance of core modules, along with some optional modules. Modules are typically worth 10 or 20 credits and you need to earn 120 credits a year.

 

The modules shown are an example of the typical curriculum and will be reviewed prior to the 2022/2023 academic year. The final modules will be published by September 2022.

 

Year one
The range of modules in year one is designed to stimulate your interest in physics while giving you a sound foundation upon which to build in later years. At the end of the first year, you may continue with your degree programme of choice or choose another of our single honours physics and astronomy degrees.

 

You will study core modules worth 120 credits.

 

Year two
The second year of the course continues to build on the core physics and astrophysics material. You will also take a module on Observational Techniques in Astronomy. This introduces the theory and practice of making and interpreting astronomical observations and provides the necessary skills to undertake your astronomy or astrophysics research project in years three and four.

 

Students are required to maintain a minimum average of 55% in years one and two in order to continue their studies on the MPhys programme.

 

Year three
In your third year you will study 80 credits of core modules with a further 20 credits from a selection of optional modules. You will also undertake an independent 20-credit physics-related research project.

 

Year four
The final-year project is a significant assessed part of our MPhys courses and we attach particular importance to it. It currently accounts for half of the year four content (60 credits) and provides training in analysis, synthesis and problem solving – the key skills needed by a professional astrophysicist. The project will be linked to the research work of the School and give you the opportunity to work alongside professional researchers and academic staff.

A level
AAA-AAB. Must include Biology (or Human Biology) or Chemistry.

 

You will need to pass the science practical element of the A-level if this is part of your programme of study.

 

Extended/International Project Qualification: Applicants with grade A in the EPQ/IPQ will typically receive an offer one grade lower than the standard A level offer. Please note that any subject specific requirements must still be met.

 

International Baccalaureate
36-34 overall or 666 in 3 HL subjects. Must include grade 6 in HL Biology or Chemistry. 

 

GCSE
Grade C or grade 4 in GCSE English Language.

 

IELTS (academic)
At least 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each subskill.

 

TOEFL iBT
At least 90 overall with minimum scores of 17 for writing, 17 for listening, 18 for reading and 20 for speaking.

 

PTE Academic
At least 62 overall with a minimum of 59 in all communicative skills.

 

Trinity ISE II/III
II: at least two Distinctions and two Merits.
III: at least a Pass in all components.

Tuition fees for 2022 entry

Fees for home status

• £9,000    

 

Fees for overseas status

• £23,450

Physics and Astronomy graduates are highly valued by employers and our students go on to work in a wide range of different fields including research science, medical physics and technology, teaching and finance and banking.

 

Employers include UK and international universities plus organisations such as Rolls Royce, European Space Agency, Lockheed Martin, Tata Steel, National Instruments and Barclays.

 

Graduate careers

• Research scientist
• Teacher
• Finance and banking
• Project manager