Astronomy
Degrees, combinations and UCAS codes
Astronomy is the study of the physical universe, from the earth and the solar system to galaxies at the edge of the cosmos. Astronomers observe the universe across the entire electromagnetic spectrum, interpreting their observations in terms of the known laws of physics. In fact, the universe provides a natural laboratory in which to explore those laws of physics and, in certain phenomena – such as pulsars, quasars and black holes – to test those laws under extreme conditions.
What will I study?
In the first year you will gain a basic understanding of the main fields of astronomy, from planets through stars to cosmology, and will be introduced to modern observational methods, thereby providing a solid foundation for further study in astronomy. The second-year course will extend your broad astronomy education as well as introducing more specialised training in observational techniques.
If you progress to Honours you will study a range of core topics in greater depth but will also study in detail specialist subjects of your choice. In addition, you will undertake project work, often on a topic at the frontiers of astronomy research.
The main components of the Honours programme include
- Stellar physics
- Galaxies and cosmology
- Exploring planetary systems
- High energy astrophysics
- General relativity and gravitation
- Plasma astrophysics
- Pulsars and supernovae
- Astronomical instrumentation and data analysis.
How will I learn?
Teaching is delivered through a combination of lectures, small group tutorials, seminars and lab work. At all levels laboratory exercises, demonstrations and observing are integral to the programme.
Special features
- Lectures are complemented by our observatory, planetarium and telescope facilities. The University also maintains close links with the Glasgow Science Centre, home of one of the UK’s best planetariums.
- Teaching is mainly undertaken by the Astronomy & Astrophysics Group, who work at the forefront of research on the sun, stars and the extragalactic universe, using data from many of the world’s most powerful telescopes. You will be in regular contact with Astronomy experts, including the current Astronomer Royal for Scotland, who leads the group.
- The University is part of the Scottish Universities’ Physics Alliance (SUPA), a group of six university physics and astronomy departments which aims to place Scotland at the international forefront of research in physics and astronomy.
Notes
- No previous knowledge of astronomy is required.
- The University also offers degree programmes in Physics, Physics with Astrophysics and Theoretical Physics.
Joint honours
At Honours level, this subject is only available as part of a Joint Honours degree. Glasgow offers one of the widest ranges of Joint Honours programmes in the UK.
Entry requirements
Typical offer
- Highers: ABBB, preferably with two science subjects
- A-levels: ABB, preferably with two science subjects
- IB: 32 points including two science subjects
Faster route degree entry requirements
Applicants with AAA grades in appropriate Advanced Highers or A-levels, or International Baccalaureate with 6,6,5 at Higher Level in appropriate subjects and at least 38 points overall, will be considered for our Faster Route degree programmes where available.
Full details of Entry requirements: Science
What are my career prospects?
A high percentage of our graduates undertake postgraduate degrees and go on to pursue research careers in astronomy. Many other graduates find employment in industry or in the education and financial sectors.
How to apply
If you are seeking full-time entry, you must apply through the Universities & Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). There is an application fee for this service.
- Apply at www.ucas.com or through your school or college.
- Contact UCAS on 0870 112 2200.
For further details, see: Undergraduate study: How to apply
