MSc Astrophysics

Our Astrophysics MSc will give you a comprehensive understanding of the field, while also keeping you up-to-date with the very latest developments in astrophysics research. 

 

The programme will cover diverse topics, such as the origin of the universe, dark matter, dark energy, galaxies, radiation mechanisms, the life and death of stars, black holes, extrasolar planets, space and solar plasma astrophysics, and the solar system.

 

You’ll join a thriving, friendly research community, with a busy schedule of research seminars, colloquia, meetings and workshops (as well as regular social events), so you can make the most of the specialist research skills you’ll develop on this course.

 

Our academics work on high-profile international collaborations, including experiments at CERN and the recently completed NASA and European Space Agency Cassini mission to Saturn. You’ll be able to call on their expertise when you work on your research project.

 

The flexible structure of this programme and its part-time option make this MSc especially suitable if you want to study and have other commitments. Each year, we welcome students studying for an MSc as part of a career break or change, or simply out of personal interest, so you’ll be among peers who share your passion for astrophysics.

 

Structure

• Five compulsory taught modules
• Three elective taught modules
• MSc Astrophysics Research Project
   

Non-UK students
We accept a wide range of European and international qualifications in addition to A-levels, the International Baccalaureate and BTEC qualifications. 

 

Student Visa Regulations

If you will require a Student visa to study in the UK, you must meet the minimum English Language requirements to meet the UKVI regulations.  The minimum IELTS requirement is 5.5 in all four skills (Writing, Reading, Speaking and Listening).  However, many of our courses require higher grades.

 

Pre-sessional English Language Courses

If you fall slightly below our standard English language requirements, you may consider one of our Pre-sessional English courses.  Please note that you will require a UK government approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) for entry to our Thirteen week pre-sessional courses.  Currently, only IELTS for UKVI, PTE Academic (UKVI), LanguageCert International ESOL SELT and Trinity College London, Integrated Skills in English (ISE) are accepted. The Pre-sessional English course requirements are published according to the academic department within which your chosen course of study is administere

Home fees £11,850

 

Overseas fees £25,150

 

Loans and grants
UK students accepted onto this course are eligible to apply for tuition fee and maintenance loans from Student Finance England or other government bodies.

 

Scholarships and bursaries
Queen Mary offers a generous package of scholarships and bursaries, which currently benefits around 50 per cent of our undergraduates.

 

Scholarships are available for home, EU and international students. Specific funding is also available for students from the local area. International students may be eligible for a fee reduction. We offer means-tested funding, as well as subject-specific funding for many degrees.

We have been preparing students for careers in astrophysics research since 1972. Several of our alumni hold posts at prestigious universities in the UK and internationally, including the University of Cambridge.

 

You will be given comprehensive training in research methods, substantial independent project work and access to the expertise and culture of the department, all excellent preparation for a doctorate in astrophysics.

 

Recent graduates of our MSc programmes have gone on to PhD studies and positions such as:

• Business and data analyst
• Consultant
• Data scientist
• Programming analyst

In organisations including:

• Plasmonics, King’s College London
• HSBC Global Banking and Markets
• JDX FinTech Solutions
• Tech Alchemy
• DP World London Gateway