Astrophysics, BSc (Hons)

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Course Overview

Join us on a journey to unlock the mysteries of the Universe!

Our Astrophysics programme is designed to offer a wide range of learning opportunities to enrich your academic journey and give you the skills you need for your future.

You will gain a solid understanding of fundamental physics concepts and mathematical techniques, forming the foundation needed to unlock the secrets of the cosmos.

Building on these foundations and taught by active researchers, you’ll delve deeper into the Universe, studying topics such as stellar evolution, galactic dynamics, gravitational waves and cosmology.

You will go beyond lectures, with hands-on practical experience using telescopes and detectors, and analysing real astronomical data. Your final year project allows you to conduct your own independent research in an astrophysics area, potentially using data from an observatory field trip.

Throughout the programme, you will be assessed through a range of diverse assessments – from reports and scientific posters to exams and presentations, allowing you to showcase your skills in communication, teamwork, research and more.

Our programme aims to create well-rounded astrophysicists equipped with not only the necessary scientific knowledge and skills but also the critical thinking, communication, and adaptability to thrive in the ever-evolving world of scientific exploration and discovery.

Your Astrophysics Journey Awaits!

Why Astrophysics at Swansea?

Physics at Swansea University is a highly regarded department that attracts students from across the world, did you know that:

  • 11th in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2025)

  • 3rd in the UK for Teaching Quality (Guardian University Guide 2025)

  • 5th in the UK for Teaching on my Course* (NSS 2024) * Based on the average positivity score across questions 1 to 4 in the NSS 2024 when ranked against universities featured in the Times Good University Guide.
  • Top 201-250 in the world (QS World University Rankings 2025)

Your learning will be shaped by inspirational academics such as Prof Gianmassimo Tasinato, internationally renowned for his research contributions in gravitational wave astronomy and cosmology and Dr Sarah Roberts, an expert in using robotic telescopes for education to engage and inspire learners.

Your Astrophysics Experience

  • A flexibly structured degree path means you have the opportunity to study abroad for a year or work in industry for a year, either locally, nationally or overseas.
  • Choice of joining an international field trip to a leading astronomical research facility, where you'll collect your own data
  • Opportunity to use world-class robotic telescopes around the world, putting the power of real astronomical observation at your fingertips.
  • Our common student & staff space (the Event Horizon) overlooking spectacular views of Swansea Bay, provides an ideal location for quiet study, informal discussions and lunches.
  • The Physics department and the Swansea University Physics Society sponsor frequent social, and academic events such as departmental colloquia and distinguished lectures to bring students and staff together.
  • Elected student reps for each year and for the Swansea University Physics Society (PhySoc) ensure that every student voice is heard through regular meetings with HoDs.
  • Our world leading research groups in Particle Physics and Cosmology Theory, Applied Materials, and the ALPHA anti-matter collaboration with close ties to CERN, ensure that our teaching is informed by the latest research. Students have the opportunity to do a summer internship at CERN and undertake final year projects with any of our major research groups.

Astrophysics Employment Opportunities

Our Swansea Physics graduates have excelled in a wide range of careers, including roles as research physicists, data scientists, AI and software engineers, demand forecasters, patent examiners, and quantitative finance analysts. Our alumni network illustrates their involvement across many sectors, such as government research, aerospace, defence, energy, nuclear, engineering, the private sector, education, and space exploration. We take pride in the strong connections they maintain with the department and are delighted to showcase their career advancements to our current students.

A significant percentage of our graduates go on to pursue postgraduate studies and research with a wide variety of specialisations.

Modules

You will follow a degree path of the following compulsory and optional 10 and 20 credit modules.

Astrophysics, BSc (Hons)

Astrophysics with a Year Abroad, BSc (Hons)

Astrophysics with a Year in Industry, BSc (Hons)