Astrophysics MPhys

About the course

The MPhys degree programme is a 4 year full-time degree course or a 5 year sandwich course.

The additional year it entails (with respect to the BSc programme) provides a broader and deeper exposure to the concepts, methods and phenomena of physics. It also provides experience of research work, and will constitute the normal route into graduate research.

Why choose this course?

If you are fascinated by the wonders of the Universe, studying astrophysics at degree level will deepen your knowledge and understanding of the physical processes that shape the origin, structure and evolution of the stars, planets and galaxies. Our broad and vibrant research programme feeds directly into the curriculum to keep you at the cutting edge of this inspiring subject.

Study routes

• Part Time,
• Part Time, 8 Years
• Sandwich, 5 Years
• Sandwich,
• Full Time,

Locations

• University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

Professional Accreditations

Accreditation by the Institute of Physics (IoP) will be sought in winter 2013.

Structure

Year 1

Core Modules

• Mathematical Techniques 1 (L1)

  On entry students will have different mathematical knowledge and this module has been designed to standardise their mathematical knowledge. The module will initially review core areas of A-Level Mathematics which will be extended to improve students' knowledge. You will learn the standard mathematical techniques in calculus, matrices and vectors.

• Contemporary Physics (L1)

  The module introduces students to the fundamental developments in relativistic and quantum physics of the last century. Students will learn about the special relativistic effects. They will trace the development of quantum physics and learn about the structure of matter. They will uncover strange and bizarre phenomena including the twins paradox, the pole and barn paradox, matter waves, quantum tunnelling, particle-wave duality and the quantum superposition principle.

• Laboratory Physics 1

  The module consists of experimental investigations into various physical phenomena such as classical mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and optics, quantum phenomena (blackbody and photelectric effect) and atomic spectra. It also introduces the basic techniques of laboratory practice, including data recording, uncertainty estimation, data and uncertainty analysis, maintaining a log book and writing reports.

• Applications of Computing

  In this module, you will learn how to program in a high-level language. You will see how to develop scientific and mathematical models and how they can be implemented in a computational environment. At the end of the module you will be capable of writing a technical report in which you present the results of an investigation using computer packages.

• The Physical Universe

  The module will provide students in Physics and Astrophysics with a quantitative introduction to the Physical Universe. It will provide a broad survey of the universe and the structure of matter. It will show how physics and mathematics are used as theoretical tools to interpret data collected in the laboratory or at the telescope. It will introduce students to laboratory and observatory skills.

• Small Group Tutorial

  The module will require students to attempt a range of problems, mostly of a mathematical nature, broadly in the students' subject area. Some problems will be associated with other specific taught modules on the programme, while others will have a synoptic role sitting across several modules. The work will challenge students to develop problem solving skills that enable them to approach unfamiliar as well as familiar problems.

Optional

Fees & funding

Discounts are available for International students if payment is made in full at registration

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Other financial support

Find out more about other financial support available to UK and EU students

Living costs / accommodation

The University of Hertfordshire offers a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.

View detailed information about our accommodation

How to apply