MSc Astrophysics
Postgraduate Certificate / Master's Degree
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ABOUT
Why choose Herts?
- Cutting edge research: study and research cutting edge astrophysics in Hertfordshire’s internationally renowned Centre for Astrophysics Research.
- Bayfordbury Observatory: train as an astrophysicist in one of the best equipped teaching observatories in the UK.
- Specialist modules: study a broad astrophysics curriculum, with a wide range of specialist option modules.
Entry requirements and key information
The normal entry requirements for the programme are:
- A good (2.1 or above) Honours degree (or equivalent) in physics, astrophysics, or a closely related subject, where the degree is accredited by a professional statutory regulatory body such as the Institute of Physics (or a body of equivalent standing in a related subject or overseas).
If you wish to join the course with a 2.2, your application may be considered on a case-by-case basis, where entry may be possible based on additional information and/or an interview.
It is not possible to register for the MSc Astrophysics if you have already obtained the University of Hertfordshire’s MPhys (Physics) degree or MPhys (Astrophysics) degree.
Employability
Careers
You’ll develop key skills and knowledge in advanced physics, data analysis techniques, and software development, while exploring cutting edge topics in a fast-moving international research field. Your in-depth, specialist physics understanding, and range of technical and mathematical skills mean you’ll be well placed for a career in industrial or scientific research and in a range of STEM areas.
You’ll also be well equipped to progress onto a PhD programme joining a community of graduates who are contributing to cutting-edge research in the field.
Our graduates also find employment in international observatories, research institutions, engineering and financial industries, and teaching.
Work placement
The course is available with an optional one-year industry placement.
You’ll have the opportunity to work for one-year, full-time in a highly professional and stimulating environment. You’ll develop an understanding of the real-world applications of your theoretical knowledge which can be taken forward into your individual project.
About the course
You’ll develop a thorough grounding in fundamental physics while exploring cutting edge topics about the Universe, its constituents and structure, and humanity’s place within it.
You’ll be trained in observational astrophysics and in the use of theory by carrying out a major research project supervised by a leading expert. Throughout the course, you’ll develop specialised skills in physics research enquiry and problem-solving, critical thinking, scientific writing, communication and presentation, and programming and software application.
The course gives you the unique opportunity to study a wide variety of astrophysical phenomena across many scales enabling you to explore all corners of the Universe. You’ll study galactic topics, including:
- extra-solar planets
- the life cycle of stars
- gamma-ray bursters
- supernovae.
You’ll also have the opportunity to study extra-galactic topics, including:
- active galaxies at high redshift
- cosmological theory
- the evolution of the universe.
You’ll also have the opportunity to undertake a placement year, or a year-long advanced research project through the different course pathways.
Why choose this course?
Research is at the forefront of the course and is embedded in your student experience from research-informed teaching, to opportunities for direct involvement with ongoing research projects.
You’ll be taken on an exciting learning journey led by staff from the University of Hertfordshire Centre for Astrophysics Research. You’ll benefit from their internationally renowned knowledge and experience from the work they carry out across a range of cutting-edge research topics in both galactic and extragalactic astrophysics.
Find out more about the Centre for Astrophysics Research.
The course benefits from a large practical component enabling you to put your knowledge and research into practice. As a student on the course, you’ll have unique access to the University’s own Bayfordbury Observatory. The Observatory is home to:
- eight individual domes
- a fully equipped computer building
- five 40cm Meade telescopes (equipped with CCD detectors)
- a solar telescope
- a video telescope
- four radio telescopes on-site which also facilitates a three-element radio interferometer.
The facilities are automated (with weather sensitive control) so observing can be done either remotely (via queue observing) or directly through on-site student visits.
Find out more about Bayfordbury Observatory.
The University of Hertfordshire was ranked 2nd in the East of England (after Cambridge) for Physics and Astronomy (2023 Complete University Guide).
What will I study?
As part of the course, you’ll undertake six compulsory modules focused on the latest cutting-edge research. You’ll study an exciting blend of topics, including:
- galactic and extragalactic astrophysics
- astrophysical techniques and concepts
- fundamental theory
- analysis methods.
The structure of the course enables you to take your research and career in the direction which suits you. You’re able to tailor your degree to your own interests and undertake an additional two optional modules from specialist areas of astrophysics, space science, fundamental theory, and optical physics.
Over the course of the summer semester, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake a major astrophysics project supervised by a leading expert in your chosen field. Project teaching comprises of individual supervision and guidance to support your development as a researcher.
Student experience
At the University of Hertfordshire, we want to make sure your time studying with us is as stress-free and rewarding as possible. We offer a range of support services including; student wellbeing, academic support, accommodation and childcare to ensure that you make the most of your time at Herts and can focus on studying and having fun.
Fees 2022
UK Students
Full time
- £9750 for the 2022/2023 academic year
Part time
- £810 per 15 credits for the 2022/2023 academic year
EU Students
Full time
- £14750 for the 2022/2023 academic year
Part time
- £1230 per 15 credits for the 2022/2023 academic year
International Students
Full time
- £14750 for the 2022/2023 academic year
Part time
- £1230 per 15 credits for the 2022/2023 academic year
*Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students. Please see the University’s Fees and Finance Policy (and in particular the section headed “When tuition fees change”), for further information about when and by how much the University may increase its fees for future years.
Deadlines
15 January
FREE VISA SERVICE
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Expenses (GBP)
14750
Application Fee
0
Program expenses
University & General Expenses
accommodation
After Graduation