Introduction
Physics with Astrophysics explores the structure of the universe to uncover the fundamental question: how did everything come to be?
You will study the origins of the universe, the formation of galaxies, stars, and planets, and learn how to combine a knowledge of physics with advanced computational techniques to observe and understand the universe.
Study Information
At a Glance
- Learning Mode
- On Campus Learning
- Degree Qualification
- BSc
- Duration
- 48 months
- Study Mode
- Full Time
- Start Month
- September
- Location of Study
- Aberdeen
- UCAS Code
- F3F5
Physics with Astrophysics is a comprehensive programme that introduces the core concepts of physics and demonstrates how they can be applied to the field of astrophysics.
This programme will give you valuable skills in the various facets of observational, computational and theoretical astrophysics that enable the study of the cosmos. This will include the usage of telescopes for precise observation, rigorous treatment of the laws of optics and electromagnetism that have enabled our study of the unimaginably distant stars, and computational modelling techniques. You will also undertake a project that will include simulation of large scale gravitational effects.
The programme includes a field trip in the fourth year, where members of staff will take you to a Dark Sky Park in the Cairngorms National Park for a weekend of astronomical observation. We also offer a case study the preparations required for a rocket launch, informed by discussions with local launch platform companies in Shetland and western Scotland.
The University of Aberdeen has a long association with astronomy. The local Aberdeen Astronomical Society (AAS) was formed in 1969, led by University of Aberdeen’s Professor RV Jones, who is most famously remembered for his work on the development of radar during the Second World War. AAS maintain a close partnership with the University and have been actively engaged with the use of the Cromwell Tower Observatory located in King’s College on the main Old Aberdeen campus.
Other eminent astrophysicists associated with Aberdeen include the Astronomer Royal, Sir David Gill (1843 – 1914), who first measured precisely the distance of the Sun from the Earth and who studied under James Clerk Maxwell (1831 – 1879) who is widely regarded as one of the greatest scientists of all time due to his revolutionary work on the theory of electricity and magnetism.
What You'll Study
- Year 1
-
Compulsory Courses
- ST1507 Fundamental Data Analysis for Astronomy (15 credit points)
Plus:
- Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen (PD1002)
-
This course, which is prescribed for level 1 undergraduate students (and articulating students who are in their first year at the University), is studied entirely online, takes approximately 5-6 hours to complete and can be taken in one sitting, or spread across a number of weeks.
Topics include orientation overview, equality and diversity, health, safety and cyber security and how to make the most of your time at university in relation to careers and employability.
Successful completion of this course will be recorded on your Enhanced Transcript as ‘Achieved’.
- The Physical Universe A (PX1015)
-
15 Credit Points
Physics is the most fundamental of the sciences, and if we wish to better understand the nature and behaviour of the Universe, it is perhaps the best place to start. This course introduces the basic topics of Physics, from the sub-microscopic scale of electrons and atoms, to the orbits of the planets and stars, to the celestial mechanics of galaxies. It encompasses the work of Physicists like Isaac Newton, Albert Einstein, Marie Curie and Jocelyn Bell Burnell. If you’ve ever been curious about how the world works, you will hopefully find this course, typically well-regarded by students, interesting.
- Calculus 1 (MA1005)
-
15 Credit Points
Calculus is the mathematical study of change, and is used in many areas of mathematics, science, and the commercial world. This course covers differentiation, limits, finding maximum and minimum values, and continuity. There may well be some overlap with school mathematics, but the course is brisk and will go a long way quickly.
- Algebra (MA1006)
-
15 Credit Points
This course introduces the concepts of complex numbers, matrices and other basic notions of linear algebra over the real and complex numbers. This provides the necessary mathematical background for further study in mathematics, physics, computing science, chemistry and engineering.
- The Physical Universe B (PX1513)
-
15 Credit Points
Understanding electric and magnetic forces is of paramount importance for understanding the physical world. They are eventually responsible for the matter around us to self-organize (in solid, liquid and gas phases), with given structures, density, elastic properties, and so on. Furthermore, they are responsible for light emission and propagation across the space.
Already the first rudiments of electricity and magnetism will help to appreciate that they are two difference faces of the same coin: electromagnetism. This relationship is the first evidence of the possibility to build a unified description of the microscopic laws of the physical universe.
- Astronomy and Meteorology (PX1514)
-
15 Credit Points
Impossibly distant, sparkling jewels cast on the black velvet cloth of the sky, no sight inspires more awe than the beauty of the stars. This course explores the evolution of our understanding of astronomy from how the Universe at large works to the modern view of our solar system.
Science also intersects with our daily lives in the weather. We discuss the way elementary physics causes everything from everyday weather to colossal storm systems, and we explore some major science issues including climate change.
Historically descriptive, with introductory basic physical concepts, this is a suitable course for all undergraduate students.
- Calculus II (MA1508)
-
15 Credit Points
The aim of the course is to provide an introduction to Integral Calculus and the theory of sequences and series, to discuss their applications to the theory of functions, and to give an introduction to the theory of functions of several variables.
This provides the necessary mathematical background for further study in mathematics, physics, computing science, chemistry and engineering.
Optional Courses
Select a further 15 credit points from courses of choice.
- Year 2
-
Compulsory Courses
- PX2017 Computational Models in Physics and Astrophysics (15 credit points)
- PX25XX Practical Optics and Electronics for Physics and Astrophysics (15 credit points)
- MA2511 Applied Linear Algebra (15 credit points)
Plus:
- An Introduction to Space Science and Remote Sensing (PX2011)
-
15 Credit Points
This popular course will look at the principles behind rocketry, satellite orbits and probes sent beyond the Earth's atmosphere. It will look at the environment that satellites and probes operate in (orbital debris), GPS, and asteroid and impact risk assessment. The course will describe some great achievements in space exploration and discuss the main motivations for engaging in this area. It will examine how other parts of the electromagnetic spectrum of longer wavelengths than visible light that are used for remote sensing and it will concentrate on some of the science behind communicating effectively with satellites and storing the results.
- Light Science (PX2013)
-
15 Credit Points
For most of us, our perceptions are governed most strongly by our vision. We see because of light, but what is light? It’s been considered a particle, a wave, and in modern physics is somehow both. This course explores the fascinating physics of this phenomenon, at an elementary mathematical level suitable for non-science students. We’ll cover petrological microscopy, of interest to geologists, interference and diffraction, how colour works, see how polarisation can be applied in both scientific fields and every day life, and see how the photon can be used in devices in the increasing prevalent field known as photonics.
- Relativity and Quantum Mechanics (PX2510)
-
15 Credit Points
In the 20th Century, Physics got strange, and this course sets out to explore the foundations of this modern approach. In Special Relativity we will look at the idea that time is not an absolute – that events can happen in different times for different observers – and explore the effects of travelling at close to the speed of light. The quantum mechanics section introduces some of the most exciting and dramatically successful science of all time, and discuss the evolution of this idea from the days of Schrodinger’s cat to quantum tunnelling.
Optional Courses
Select a further 15 credit points from a Mathematics course, and 15 credit points from courses of choice.
- Year 3
-
Compulsory Courses
- PX3522 Advanced Practical Physics for Astrophysics (15 credit points)
Plus:
- Energy and Matter (PX3014)
-
15 Credit Points
Our world is made of three types of matter, Solids, Liquids and Gases. The first part of this course will explore the physical properties of these forms of matter and investigate important technological phenomena such as the flow of liquids and the causes of catastrophic failure in mechanical components. In the second half of the course, the nature of heat energy in matter will be explored. Thermodynamic behaviour will be understood in terms of Entropy and the operation of engines and their theoretical efficiency limitations will be explained.
- Introduction to the Solid State (PX3016)
-
15 Credit Points
The course is based on modern views on the structure of solids, how that structure is determined by X-ray crystallography and the basics of structure-property relationships. This involves learning the language of the basic shapes and symmetry displayed by crystals, then using that within the interdisciplinary subject of X-ray crystallography, source of many Nobel prizes and great advance in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Biology and Medicine. The course then briefly examines some key topics including semiconductors, defects and amorphous materials.
- Optics and Photonics (PX3021)
-
15 Credit Points
This course gives an overview of a optical physics, spanning the classical ideas of geometrical optics through to modern photonic devices such as lasers that are quantum mechanical in nature. It touches on a number of wave phenomena such as optical polarisation and how optics is fundamentally linked to the powerful mathematical tool of Fourier theory. Through a range of examples, the course will illustrate how optics is used in the modern world, from microscopes to telecommunications.
- Quantum Mechanics (PX3511)
-
15 Credit Points
The course aims to provide the students with the underpinning knowledge that will enable them to think constructively about phenomena that relate to the quantum structure of matter. It is intended that the students will gain a broad appreciation of the hierarchy of interactions that give rise to the energy levels of atoms and the consequent structure of the associated spectroscopic transitions. In comparison to the previous years more emphasis will be put on the general, mathematical structure of quantum theory, tackling topics such as Hilbert spaces and time independent perturbation theory.
- Electricity and Magnetism (PX3512)
-
15 Credit Points
We are surrounded by electromagnetic phenomena; it is not possible to understand the physical world without them. In this course we will discuss the link between electricity and magnetism, noticing that changing electric magnetic fields generate electric fields and the other way around. This will lead to the introduction of Faraday’s law, hugely relevant to understand how we generate electricity, and to the introduction of Maxwell’s correction to Ampere’s law, which will lead to the astounding result that light is an electromagnetic wave! We will finish the course by exploring how electromagnetic waves propagate and how they are originated.
Optional Courses
ONE from:
- PX45XX Thermodynamics and Cosmology (15 credit points)*
- Moden Astrophysics and Elementary General Relativity (15 credit points)*
* Note: these courses alternate on a two-year cycle
Select a further 15 credit points from courses of choice.
- Year 4
-
Compulsory Courses
- PX4018 - Project in Astrophysics (45 credit points)
- PX4515 - Modelling Theory for Astrophysics (15 credit points)
- Case Studies in Physical Sciences (PX4007)
-
15 Credit Points
Whatever career you end up in, group working skills will be critical, and this course is designed to develop them. It is 100% continuously assessed and consists of some initial teamwork training, followed by two very different projects. One explores PET scanning and is taught by Professor Andy Welch, who is in charge of the medical imaging unit at Foresterhill. The other is about fibre optics communications and is taught by Dr. Ross Macpherson. These open-ended projects will give you some less prescriptive assessment in your final year.
- Statistical Physics and Stochastic Systems (PX4012)
-
15 Credit Points
Statistical physics derives the phenomenological laws of thermodynamics from the probabilistic treatment of the underlying microscopic system. Statistical physics, together with quantum mechanics and the theory of relativity, is a cornerstone in our modern understanding of the physical world.
Through this course, you will gain a better understanding of fundamental physical concepts such as entropy and thermodynamic irreversibility, and you will learn how derive some simple thermodynamic properties of gases and solids.
The final part of the course is devoted to an introduction to stochastic systems, which are widely used in many different fields such as physics, biology and economics.
Optional Courses
ONE from:
- PX45XX Thermodynamics and Cosmology (15 credit points)*
- Moden Astrophysics and Elementary General Relativity (15 credit points)*
* Note: these courses alternate on a two-year cycle
Plus 15 credit points from courses of choice
We will endeavour to make all course options available. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
How You'll Study
Learning Methods
- Field Trips
- Group Projects
- Individual Projects
- Lab Work
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Tutorials
Assessment Methods
Students are assessed by any combination of three assessment methods:
- coursework such as essays and reports completed throughout the course;
- practical assessments of the skills and competencies they learn on the course; and
- written examinations at the end of each course.
The exact mix of these methods differs between subject areas, years of study and individual courses.
Honours projects are typically assessed on the basis of a written dissertation.
Why Study Physics with Astrophysics?
- We are ranked 6th in the UK for Physics - The Guardian University Guide 2024
- We are ranked 2nd in Scotland for Overall Satisfaction - NSS 2023
- The University of Aberdeen has a long and prestigious history within the field of Astrophysics, and you will be taught by leading researchers in the field.
- The nearby Cairngorms National Park provides an excellent setting for your fourth year field trip where you will spend a weekend making astronomical observations.
- Astrophysics is one of the most fascinating and fastest growing areas of scientific study, with frequent high-profile and groundbreaking discoveries that enhance our understanding of the universe.
- Aberdeen is the northernmost observatory in the United Kingdom and is situated close to the forthcoming SaxaVord Spaceport in the Shetland Isles.
- The Department of Physics at the University of Aberdeen has a long and illustrious history. Notable former staff include James Clerk Maxwell, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest scientists who have ever lived due to his revolutionary work on electricity, magnetism, and optics and GP Thomson who won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921
- The Physics and Astronomy Society is open to any students with an interest in physics or astronomy and organises a series of talks, experimental sessions, astronomy nights, trips, game nights, and numerous social outings.
Aberdeen Global Scholarship
The University of Aberdeen is delighted to offer eligible self-funded international on-campus undergraduate students a £6,000 scholarship for every year of their programme.
View the Aberdeen Global ScholarshipEntry Requirements
Qualifications
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
General Entry Requirements
- 2024 Entry
-
SQA Highers
Standard: AABB*
Applicants who have achieved AABB (or better), are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/ Advanced Highers may be required.
Minimum: BBB*
Applicants who have achieved BBB (or are on course to achieve this by the end of S5) are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will normally be required.
Adjusted: BB*
Applicants who have achieved BB, and who meet one of the widening access criteria are are guaranteed a conditional offer. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will be required.
* Including good performance in Mathematics and Physics by the end of your senior phase of education.
More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.
A LEVELS
Standard: BBB*
Minimum: BBC*
Adjusted: CCC*
* Including good performance in Mathematics and Physics by the end of your senior phase of education.
More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.
International Baccalaureate
32 points, including 5, 5, 5 at HL, including HL in Mathematics and Physics.
Irish Leaving Certificate
5H with 3 at H2 AND 2 at H3, Including H3 in Mathematics and Physics.
- 2025 Entry
-
SQA Highers
Standard: BBBB*
Applicants who have achieved BBBB (or better), are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/ Advanced Highers may be required.
Minimum: BBC
Applicants who have achieved BBC at Higher and meet one of the widening participation criteria above are encouraged to apply and are guaranteed an unconditional offer for MA, BSc and BEng degrees.
Adjusted: BB
Applicants who have achieved BB at Higher, and who meet one of the widening participation criteria above are encouraged to apply and are guaranteed an adjusted conditional offer for MA, BSc and BEng degrees.
We would expect to issue a conditional offer asking for one additional C grade at Higher.
Foundation Apprenticeship: One FA is equivalent to a Higher at A. It cannot replace any required subjects.
* Including good performance in Mathematics and Physics by the end of your senior phase of education.
More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.
A LEVELS
Standard: BBC*
Minimum: BCC*
Adjusted: CCC*
* Including good performance in Mathematics and Physics by the end of your senior phase of education.
More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.
International Baccalaureate
32 points, including 5, 5, 5 at HL, including HL in Mathematics and Physics.
Irish Leaving Certificate
5H with 3 at H2 AND 2 at H3, Including H3 in Mathematics and Physics.
The information displayed in this section shows a shortened summary of our entry requirements. For more information, or for full entry requirements for Sciences degrees, see our detailed entry requirements section.
English Language Requirements
To study for an Undergraduate degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:
IELTS Academic:
OVERALL - 6.0 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 5.5; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0
TOEFL iBT:
OVERALL - 78 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 18; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21
PTE Academic:
OVERALL - 59 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59
Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:
OVERALL - 169 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 162; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169
Read more about specific English Language requirements here.
Fees and Funding
You will be classified as one of the fee categories below.
| Fee category | Cost |
|---|---|
| EU / International students | £24,800 |
| Tuition Fees for 2025/26 Academic Year | |
| Home Students | £1,820 |
| Tuition Fees for 2025/26 Academic Year | |
| RUK | £9,250 |
| Tuition Fees for 2025/26 Academic Year |
Additional Fees
- In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips. Any additional fees for a course can be found in our Catalogue of Courses.
- For more information about tuition fees for this programme, including payment plans and our refund policy, please visit our Tuition Fees page.
Scholarships and Funding
UK Scholarship
Students from England, Wales and Northern Ireland, who pay tuition fees may be eligible for specific scholarships allowing them to receive additional funding. These are designed to provide assistance to help students support themselves during their time at Aberdeen.
Aberdeen Global Scholarship
The University of Aberdeen is delighted to offer eligible self-funded international on-campus undergraduate students a £6,000 scholarship for every year of their programme. More about this funding opportunity.Funding Database
View all funding options in our Funding Database.
Careers
Physics is widely seen as a highly numerate and technical degree, so general employment prospects are excellent. The comprehensive expertise of the Physics staff at Aberdeen means you will be in an excellent position to pursue postgraduate opportunities in a huge variety of fields.
We have graduates working in particle physics at CERN, in the business and finance sectors, teaching, and even generating weather forecasts. Many graduates become professional scientists in industry, research institutes and universities.
The skills you learn here in quantitative and data analysis are highly valued in numerous sectors outside of science, including banking and finance, where such graduates are highly valued and remunerated.
According to the What Do Graduates Do? 2023 survey, Physics graduates had the highest level of employment in graduate jobs (85%} and also commanded the highest salaries for science graduates (£28,116).
Gaining a specialism in astrophysics also opens up opportunities in a wide variety of related sectors, including for example, aerospace, satellite research and development, software engineering or any careers that require highly numerate graduates with skills in data analysis, such as financial services.
Typical roles taken up by physics graduates include:
- Astronomer
- Clinical Scientist (medical physics)
- Data Scientist
- Financial Analyst
- Geophysicist
- Metallurgist
- Meteorologist
- Nanotechnologist
- Nuclear Scientist
- Researcher
- Software Engineer
Our Experts
- Programme Coordinator
- Ross Fraser MacPherson
Information About Staff Changes
You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
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Get in Touch
Contact Details
- Address
-
Student Recruitment & Admissions
University of Aberdeen
University Office
Regent Walk
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX