Aberystwyth University

BSc Astrophysics

Aberystwyth UniversityAberystwyth, United Kingdom

Course overview

The Aberystwyth Astrophysics degree scheme is designed for students who have a general interest in astronomy, who may not want to confine themselves to one particular area. It offers broader modules in cosmology and galactic astronomy, enabling you to keep your options open. You can then specialise later on should you develop an interest in a specific field.

Why study

Astrophysics at Aberystwyth? Our Physics courses are accredited by the Institute of Physics (IoP), a leading scientific society which engages with policymakers and the general public to advance physics education, research and application, giving you a head start when you enter the competitive jobs market. Physics has been taught at Aberystwyth since the foundation of the university in 1872, making it the first university in Wales to teach the subject.

Despite our heritage we continue to innovate to ensure that the degree schemes we offer enable you get the best Physics degree you possibly can. Our lecturers are also researchers working at the cutting edge of their respective fields, so you can be confident that your learning experience will be informed by the latest specialist knowledge along with advanced instrumentation, modelling and techniques. In the most recent Research Excellence Framework (2014) assessment the university was placed in the top 50 institutions for research power and intensity.

It submitted 77% of eligible staff and 95% of the university's research was of an internationally recognised standard. The Department offers a number of modules through the medium of Welsh. Further details are available from the Department.

Department of Physics Lecturers are all qualified to PhD level and have a track record of research in their fields of specialisation.

Key highlights

  • Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP)
  • Physics taught here since the university's foundation in 1872
  • Researchers involved in the European Space Agency ExoMars 2020 Project
  • Research in low dimensional materials, including graphene
  • Taught by PhD-qualified lecturers with active research records

Entry requirements

  • UCAS tariff points: 112-120 — UCAS Tariff 120 - 112 A Levels BBB-BBC to include B in Physics and B in Mathematics GCSE requirements (minimum grade C/4): English or Welsh and Mathematics BTEC National Diploma: DDM-DMM with B in A level Physics and B i…
  • UCAS tariff points: 48 — UCAS Tariff 48 A Levels Available to those who are studying for, or who have completed Level 3 qualifications (eg, A-Levels or BTEC diploma) and to mature-aged candidates without formal qualifications who have suitable b…
  • A-level: BBB-BBC — to include to include B in Physics and B in Mathematics
  • GCSE: C/4 — to include English
  • BTEC: DDM-DMM — to include with B; BTEC National Diploma
  • International Baccalaureate: 28-30 — to include with 5 points in Physics and Mat

Scholarships

  • Aberystwyth Regional Scholarships

    Students will be eligible for a £2,000 reduction in tuition fees for each year of their studies at Aberystwyth University.

    Up to £2,000

  • Caru Aber International Award

    Caru Aber International Award gives a £1,000 tuition fee discount (for every year of study) to any international fee-paying students who spent a period of time studying with us as an associate student.

    Up to £1,000

  • International Accommodation Award

    This award means that for students who choose to live in our on-campus Cwrt Mawr housing, there is no cost for the first year of study.

  • International Family Award

    International Family Award – giving you a £1,000 reduction in tuition fees for every year of your studies.

    Up to £1,000

  • Margaret Evelyn “Lynne” Williams Bursary

    The Bursary is worth £500 during the first year of study and a maximum of two awards will be available each year.

    Up to £500

  • Mathematics Department Award

    Up to £500 a year.

  • Music Scholarships

    £650 a year Music Scholarships are open to UK and international applicants.

    Up to £650

  • Waldo Williams Scholarship

    Successful applicants could receive up to £500 in their first year.

  • Welsh Medium Study Bursary

    Up to £400 a year - for following part or all of your course through the medium of Welsh.

Careers this course leads to

  • Astrophysicist
  • Research Scientist
  • Space Scientist
  • Data Scientist
  • Physics Teacher
  • Software Developer

Cost of study

UK/Home: £9,790 per year | International: £21,875 per year

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to Aberystwyth University, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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