University of York

What you'll study

This programme builds a solid foundation in classical and modern physics during the early years, introduces astrophysical concepts and observational techniques, and culminates in advanced astrophysics topics and an independent research project. The structure normally comprises two years at York, a year abroad at a partner university, and a final year back at York.

• Year 1 – Core physics and mathematics: mechanics, electromagnetism, waves and optics, thermal physics, introduction to quantum ideas, laboratory skills and computing for physicists. Modules emphasise problem solving and experimental technique.
• Year 2 – Intermediate physics and introductory astrophysics: quantum mechanics, statistical physics, classical mechanics at a deeper level, introduction to astrophysics and stellar structure, observational methods, and computational physics including data analysis and programming.
• Year Abroad – Study at an approved international partner institution, taking modules that complement the York curriculum. The year abroad is credit-bearing and can include advanced astrophysics, observational or instrumental units, space science, and research-style projects. Teaching formats vary by host university and may offer access to different telescopes, instrumentation or computing facilities.
• Final year – Advanced astrophysics and research: options typically include stellar and galactic astrophysics, high-energy astrophysics, cosmology and large-scale structure, radiative processes, gravitational physics and general relativity, and advanced observational or computational techniques. The year includes a substantial research project or dissertation supervised by York staff, often linked to active research groups.

Entry requirements

Entry is competitive and applicants are expected to demonstrate strong performance in physics and mathematics. Typical offers ask for high grades at A level or equivalent qualifications in two appropriate science subjects, including Mathematics and usually Physics. Accepted qualifications also include the International Baccalaureate at a strong point total with Higher Level Physics and Mathematics, and a range of accepted access and vocational routes combined with merits in relevant science and maths units.

• Successful applicants normally have strong numeracy and problem-solving skills; prior programming experience is advantageous but not mandatory.
• Applicants should meet the University's general requirements for English language competence where English is not their first language.
• Selection may consider predicted and achieved grades, references, and any contextual information about educational background.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with quantitative, computational and experimental skills that are highly transferable. Many proceed to postgraduate research (MSc, MPhil, PhD) in astrophysics, cosmology or related areas, while others move into industry and non-academic sectors.

• Typical career paths include observational and theoretical research, space and satellite industry roles, instrumentation and detector development, and roles in aerospace.
• Skills developed on the degree are also prized in data science and analytics, software development, quantitative finance, consulting, and technology-focused roles.
• Other common destinations are science teaching, science communication, patent law, and policy or management roles where technical expertise is required.

Why study at University of York

York's Department of Physics provides a balance of rigorous coursework, hands-on laboratory training and research-informed teaching. The department hosts active research groups in areas relevant to astrophysics such as observational cosmology, exoplanets and stellar astrophysics, high-energy phenomena and astronomical instrumentation. Final-year projects are supervised by researchers, offering direct experience of current scientific work.

• Students benefit from small-group tutorials and laboratory classes that reinforce lectures and develop practical skills.
• The Year Abroad is supported through established partner links and administrative guidance, helping students gain international perspectives and access to complementary facilities or expertise.
• York also has an active student physics and astronomy community, providing outreach opportunities, observing sessions and peer support to enrich learning outside formal teaching.