Astronomy, Space Science and Astrophysics with a Foundation Year - BSc (Hons)
University of KentCanterbury, United Kingdom
Course overview
Physics gives you the tools to understand our world at a fundamental level, from the smallest sub-atomic particles to the large-scale structure of the universe. Our dedicated foundation year will give you the knowledge and skills needed for entry to any of our physics, astrophysics, astronomy or space science degrees. This course is designed for science students who do not meet the requirements for direct entry to Stage 1 of our degree courses.
It is also an excellent conversion course for applicants who have shown academic ability in non-science subjects. We consider applicants without traditional academic qualifications who have relevant professional experience. Successful completion of the foundation year allows you to move on to any of our physics, astrophysics, astronomy or space science degrees, including the four-year integrated Master's (MPhys).
You'll also develop the transferable skills to open up a world of job opportunities, leading to careers in research, aeronautics, engineering, medical physics, defence, teaching, finance and data analytics. This course is fully accredited by the Institute of Physics.
Key highlights
- Fully accredited by the Institute of Physics
- Dedicated foundation year preparing you for physics and astronomy degrees
- Progression route to physics, astrophysics, astronomy or space science degrees
- Option to progress onto the four-year integrated Master's (MPhys)
- Suitable conversion route for students from non-science backgrounds
- Develops transferable skills valued across research, engineering and finance
Entry requirements
- UCAS tariff points: 80 — Typical offer 80 UCAS points Contextual offer: N/A Contextual offers consider personal circumstances as well as academic grades.
- A-level: CCD/BCC — A level CCD / BCC Contextual offer: N/A Contextual offers consider personal circumstances as well as academic grades.
Scholarships
Kent Ambition to Succeed Scholarship
Scholarship holders can expect to receive between £500-£2,000 for each year of study (pro-rata for part-time students), subject to satisfactory academic progress.
Kent International Scholarship for Undergraduates
Scholarship value - £5,000
Up to £5,000KMMS Christopher and Henry Oldfield Academic Scholarship
Tuition fee waiver for 4 years at the home rate (£9, 790 for 26/27).
KMMS Christopher and Henry Oldfield Support Scholarship
Tuition fee waiver for 4 years at the home rate (£9,790 for 26/27).
KMMS Kingsman Scholarship
Tuition fee waiver for 4 years at the home rate (£9,790 for 26/27).
KMMS Widening Participation Scholarship
£1,500 maintenance per annum for a maximum of 5 years.
Up to £1,500Music Performance Scholarship
£1,000 awarded each year to talented instrumentalists and singers studying for any degree at the University of Kent.
Up to £1,000Sanctuary Scholarships
Tuition fees waived for the duration of your programme of study, or until you are able to access other Student Finance funding.
Careers this course leads to
- Research scientist
- Aeronautical engineer
- Medical physicist
- Defence scientist
- Physics teacher
- Data analyst
Cost of study
UK/Home: £9,790 per year | International: £23,500 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 University of Kent, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.
Ready to start?
Book a free consultation and we'll map your fastest route to a September 2026 place.