Undergraduate Astrophysics Programme
Physics with Astrophysics
A physics degree is a highly regarded qualification that can open doors to many types of successful career. A physics graduate will stand out due to the solid grounding they have picked up in physics, mathematics, computer literacy and especially their analytical mind and problem solving skills. At Leeds we provide all this alongside an in-depth study of our universe from supernova to sub-atomic particles in the 'Physics with Astrophysics' programmes.
Course Content
The Physics with Astrophysics programmes cover all the compulsory physics, mathematics and computing lecture modules that are taught to Leeds' Physics undergraduates. The Astrophysics element of the course contributes 20% in the first year, increasing to about 50% in the final year. The astronomy based modules currently taught alongside the standard physics course are shown below:
| Year of Study | 1st Semester | 2nd Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Year | Stars & Galaxies | Planets & the Search for Life |
| 2nd Year | Stellar Structure and Evolution | High Energy Astrophysics |
| 3rd Year | Star and Planet Formation | Cosmology |
| 4th Year (MPhys Students) | Winds, Bubbles & Explosions |
You can see how these modules fit into the wider course programme by visiting the main school pages here.
Students gain research skills through the laboratory modules, for those on the astrophysics programme this includes observing experience using the group's teaching telescopes. MPhys students will take an Advanced Experimental Skills module that introduces mordern research techniques used in interferometry (with VLA data), spectroscopy and studies of stellar populations.
In addition to the astronomy modules there is ample opportunity to broaden your interests by taking modules that include theoretical physics, nanophysics, quantum information, biophysics, soft matter physics and condensed matter physics; this is especially true in the advanced stages of the course where modules are predominantly research based.
All this culminates in a final year project, carried out with an academic supervisor, that takes our students to the cutting edge of current knowledge in astrophysics. Using the skills picked up in their degree, each student carries out an independent research project in an active astrophysical field (See example projects).
Employability
The Physics with Astrophysics degree at Leeds has proven to be the start of a fruitful career for our graduates who go on to work in a wide range of industries. Within six months, over 70% of physics graduates are in further study, training or research or are working full time in the UK (Source: HECSU). This means physics students can be confident that at the end of their degree they will be highly attractive to employers from a range of pursuits including business, finance, education and engineering industries to name just a few.
If you want to know more about studying at the School of Physics and Astronomy in Leeds, check out the following links:
School Home page
Admissions Home page
Or contact the admissions tutor directly:
Admissions Tutor
School of Physics and Astronomy
E. C. Stoner Building
University of Leeds
Leeds LS2 9JT
Telephone: 0113 34 33881
Email: Undergraduate Admissions Office