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MSci in Astrophysics (Full Time) MSci in Astrophysics (Full Time) Queen Mary, University of London ../webroot/files/Institutions/cover_photo/1563862679Queen-Mary1.jpg

Queen Mary, University of London

Masters Degree , Astrophysics

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Course Description

Astrophysics applies physics and mathematics to understanding astronomical objects such as planets, stars and galaxies, and to the universe as a whole.

Understanding the origin and evolution of the universe is one of the most exciting and challenging problems in modern science.

In this programme you’ll use practical and theoretical approaches to explore the evolution and properties of astrophysical systems. You’ll apply the methods used by astronomers to determine the composition and distance of other stars and galaxies. And you’ll develop an understanding of the role played by dark matter and dark energy in the large-scale structure of the universe and its accelerating expansion.

Specialist modules focus on cosmology, galaxies, stars and planetary systems and are taught by active researchers in those fields. Extra option modules provide scope for you to explore topics beyond the core syllabus, providing you with a rounded physics education with a specialist focus.

You’ll develop practical skills in lab work and programming that can be applied in commerce, industry or research.

In your final year, you’ll further develop your own interests through the completion of an independent research project, supervised by one of the School’s astrophysicists.

 

Course Content

You can complete your Astrophysics degree in three or four years.

YEAR 1

Compulsory

  • Classical Physics
  • Electric and Magnetic Fields
  • Mathematical Techniques 1
  • Mathematical Techniques 2
  • Modern Physics
  • Our Universe
  • Professional Skills for Scientists (including introduction to programming)
  • Scientific Measurement

 

YEAR 2

Compulsory

  • Communication Skills for Scientists
  • Condensed Matter A
  • Electromagnetic Waves and Optics
  • Planetary Systems
  • Quantum Mechanics A
  • Stars
  • Thermodynamics

Choose two from

  • Introduction to Scientific Computing
  • Mathematical Techniques 3
  • Nuclear Physics and Astrophysics
  • Physics of Energy and the Environment

 

YEAR 3

Compulsory

  • Extended Independent Project (BSc)
  • Physical Cosmology
  • Physics of Galaxies
  • Physics Review Project (MSci)
  • Spacetime and Gravity
  • Statistical Physics
  • Synoptic Physics (study only)

Choose two (BSc) or three (MSci) from

  • Computational Condensed Matter Physics
  • Condensed Matter B
  • Elementary Particle Physics
  • Fluid Dynamics
  • Group Projects for Physicists
  • Mathematical Techniques 3
  • Quantum Mechanics and Symmetry
  • Quantum Mechanics B
  • Radiation Detectors
  • Statistical Data Analysis

 

YEAR 4

MSci only

Choose from 

  • Physics Investigative Project
  • Physics Research Project

Choose five from

Modules offered at Queen Mary

  • Advanced Cosmology
  • Advanced Quantum Field Theory
  • Astrophysical Plasmas
  • Collider Physics
  • Differential Geometry in Theoretical Physics
  • Electromagnetic Radiation in Astrophysics
  • Electronic Structure Methods
  • Extrasolar Planets and Astrophysical Disks
  • Functional Methods in Quantum Field Theory
  • Phase Transitions
  • Relativistic Waves and Quantum Fields
  • Relativity and Gravitation
  • Solar System
  • Stellar Structure and Evolution
  • Supersymmetric Methods in Theoretical Physics
  • The Galaxy

Modules currently offered at other University of London institutions are subject to change at short notice.

Modules offered at King's College London

  • Advanced Photonics 
  • Molecular Biophysics 
  • Dark Matter and Dark Energy 
  • Dynamical Analysis of Complex Systems 
  • Elements of Statistical Learning 
  • Environmental Remote Sensing 
  • Equilibrium Analysis of Complex Systems 
  • Lie Groups and Algebras 
  • Mathematical Biology 
  • Mathematical Methods for Theoretical Physics 
  • Modelling Quantum Many Body-Systems 
  • Standard Model Physics and Beyond 
  • String Theory and Branes 
  • Supersymmetry 
  • Theoretical Treatment of Nano-Systems 
  • Theory of Complex Networks 

Modules offered at Royal Holloway

  • Computer Simulation in Condensed Matter 
  • Nuclear Magnetic Resonance 
  • Particle Accelerator Physics 
  • Physics at the Nanoscale 
  • Quantum Electronics of Nanostructures 
  • Statistical Data Analysis 
  • Statistical Mechanics 
  • Superfluids, Condensates and Superconductors 

Modules offered at University College London

  • Advanced Physical Cosmology 
  • Advanced Quantum Theory 
  • Advanced Topics in Statistical Mechanics 
  • Atom and Photon Physics 
  • Galaxy Dynamics, Formation and Evolution 
  • Molecular Biophysics 
  • Molecular Physics 
  • Order and Excitations in Condensed Matter 
  • Particle Physics
  • Planetary Atmospheres 
  • Quantum Computation and Communication 
  • Solar Physics 
  • Space Plasma and Magnetospheric Physics

 

Entry Requirements

A-Level :- Grades AAB at A-Level. This must include grade A or above in both A-Level Mathematics and Physics. Excludes General Studies.

IB :- International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum of 34 points overall, including 6,6,5 from three Higher Level subjects. This must include a minimum of 6 in both Higher Level Mathematics, and Higher Level Physics.

BTEC :- BTEC qualifications are not considered for entry to this programme.

Access HE :- Access qualifications are not considered for entry to this programme.

GCSE :- Minimum five GCSE passes including English and Maths at grade C or 4.

EPQ :- Alternative offers may be made to applicants taking the Extended Project Qualification. For further information please visit: qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate/entry/epq

Contextualised admissions :- We consider every application on its individual merits and will take into consideration your individual educational experiences and context. More information on how academic schools and programmes use this information as part of the admissions process, can be found on our contextualised admissions pages.

Assessment Methods

Assessment depends on the nature of the work being carried out. For example, if the module involves practical work only, the assessment will be based on laboratory reports. For non-practical modules you may be assessed by weekly coursework, termly assignments and an end-of-year examination.

Additional Information

Degree :-  MSci (Hons)

Duration :-  4 years

Start :-  September 2020

UK/EU fees :-  £9,250*

International fees :-  £20,850*

*These fees are for the 2019-20 academic year and are provided as a guideline. Fees for 2020-21 have not yet been set.

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