In this degree programme the study of physics is pursued with particular focus on astrophysical phenomena: from stars and planets to galaxies and cosmology. Astrophysics provides a natural laboratory in which to explore the laws of physics, and in certain astrophysical objects – such as pulsars, quasars and black holes – to test those laws under extreme conditions.

Programme structure

Year 1

In first year you will gain a basic understanding of the main topics in theoretical physics and will be introduced to the methods of experimental physics, thereby providing a solid foundation for further study in physics.

You will also study two other subjects of your choice in year 1: see Degrees in Arts, Science and Social Sciences.

Year 2

The second year will extend your broad physics education, providing training in more specialised experimental techniques and expanding your awareness of the latest developments in modern physics research. You will also be introduced to the foundations of astrophysics, covering topics including the physics of our solar system, the origin of stars and galaxies, and the evolution of the universe.

You will also study one or two other subjects in year 2: see Degrees in Arts, Science and Social Sciences.

Years 3, 4 and 5

If you progress to Honours (years 3 and 4) you will continue to study core topics in greater depth but will also study specialist subjects of your choice in depth and will undertake project work, often within a world-leading research group.

The main astrophysics components of the Honours programme include

• stellar structure and evolution
• high energy astrophysics
• galaxies and cosmology
• instruments for optical and radio telescopes
• exploring planetary systems.

There is an opportunity to take an MSci degree which explores physics and astrophysics topics in greater depth. In the final year of the MSci degree you will carry out an individually supervised project working at the cutting edge of international research. The MSci aims to foster the development of critical judgement and independent scientific work, and to prepare you for professional leadership in your chosen field.

Special features

Partner and industry links

Our international links

Career prospects

Accreditation

Glasgow International College

Academic entry requirements
for entry in 2014

BSc, MSci

Highers: AAAA or AAABB (including Physics and Mathematics) in first sitting = unconditional offer.

Applicants who achieved AAAB or AABBB (including two science subjects) at their first sitting WILL receive an offer from the University. This offer may be conditional (on second sitting results) or unconditional, depending on how many applications are received from students who have attained these grades.

Additional offers, either conditional or unconditional, MAY be made to applicants who achieved between ABBB and AABB (including two science subjects) at their first sitting. A decision re these applications will be made in March 2014 once all applications have been reviewed.

Applicants who receive an offer conditional on second sitting results may be required to study Advanced Highers in relevant subjects as an integral part of their conditional offer.

A-levels: AAB, including Physics and Mathematics.

IB: A minimum of 34 points is required to be considered for an offer. Actual offers will specify subjects and grades to be attained at Higher Level.

Advanced entry

If you have exceptional A-level or Advanced Higher grades it's possible to gain exemption from Year 1 study and enter directly into Year 2 or follow a faster route advanced entry programme, both of which allow you to complete your degree in one year less than usual. See: Advanced entry

English language requirements

For applicants whose first language is not English, the University sets a minimum English Language proficiency level.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic module (not General Training):

• overall score 6.5
• no sub-test less than 6.0
• or equivalent scores in another recognised qualification (see below)
   

Common equivalent English language qualifications:

• ibTOEFL: 92; no sub-test less than 20
• CAE (Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English): B minimum
• CPE (Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English): C minimum
• PTE Academic (Person Test of English, Academic test): 60; no sub-test less than 59

Pre-sessional courses
The University of Glasgow accepts evidence of the required language level from the Language Centre Pre-sessional courses. We also consider other BALEAP accredited pre-sessional courses:

• Language Centre, University of Glasgow
• BALEAP guide to accredited courses 

FAQs

Visa requirements and proof of English language level

It is a visa requirement to provide information on your level of English based on an internationally recognised and secure English language test. All test reports must be no more than 2 years old. A list of these can be found on the UK Border Agency website. If you have never taken one of these tests before, you can get an initial idea of your level by using the Common European Framework self-assessment grid which gives you a level for each skill (e.g. listening B1/writing B2 etc.) However, please note that this is not a secure English language test and it is not sufficient evidence of your level of English for visa requirements.

For further information about English language, please contact the Language Centre.

Tuition fees

How and when you pay tuition fees depends on where you’re from: see Tuition fees for details. If you’re from outside the EU, please see International students for more information.

Scholarships

We offer a wide range of scholarships to our undergraduates, including both home/EU and international students. The University is committed to supporting students and rewarding academic excellence. That’s why we’ve invested more than £1m in additional scholarship funding over the last year.
 
For a full list of scholarships including eligibility criteria and how to apply, please see:

• Scholarships