Postgraduate Studentships - Search for funding opportunities.
Postgraduate Studentships - Search for funding opportunities.
Astrophysics is the study of the Universe in all its complexity, from the formation of planets to the large-scale processes driving the evolution of galaxies over cosmic time. Astrophysics is a highly sought-after discipline that encourages the development of novel methods and techniques, placing you at the cutting edge of new discoveries. If you have a sense of wonder at our place in the Universe and how planets, stars and galaxies came to be then this is the right course for you!
At Leeds, we are world-renowned experts in star and planet formation research, using both theory and observations to try and understand the origins of stars and Earth-like planets. During your MSc, you’ll be exposed to the forefront of this work and will gain experience in using data from the world’s leading observatories such as the James Webb Space Telescope, the Atacama Large Millimetre Array – plus many more.
Our MSc in Astrophysics gives you not just a broad grounding in astrophysical concepts, but also practical skills in observational astronomy, data analysis and digital simulations. Modern astrophysics is also a highly collaborative field, often with large teams working on huge data sets like those from telescopes or detailed astrophysical simulations.
Communicating high level scientific concepts, working in teams and presenting your research are core parts of your studies with us. We aim to develop you into a well-rounded and adaptable scientist, equally capable of further research in Astrophysics or applying your skills to industry.
A bachelor degree with 2:1 (hons) in physics or a related subject (such as geophysics, natural sciences, or mathematics).
Applicants with engineering degrees will normally not be considered, unless they have a strong background in at least two of the following areas: astrophysics, quantum physics, biophysics, soft matter, or condensed matter.
Applicants with a chemistry degree will normally not be considered, unless they have a strong background in mathematics.
We also accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. See our website for details.
Fees are listed on our website
Please see our website for funding opportunities.
Astrophysicists are particularly known for their enquiring minds, critical and analytical capabilities, and the ability to develop new methods and techniques to understand complex and often data-poor situations. These skills are also in high demand across numerous industries, which is why astrophysics graduates are sought after for many highly paid and satisfying careers.
From finance to energy, aerospace to electronics — the industries open to you with an Astrophysics MSc from Leeds are vast. Our MSc will ground you with a high level of numeracy and mathematical competence, computer skills and extensive technical academic scientific knowledge, all of which are valued by employers.
Our MSc is also the perfect foundation for continuing postgraduate research and will provide you with the advanced knowledge and skills required to move onto a PhD.
Plus, the University of Leeds is in the top 10 most targeted universities in the UK by graduate recruiters, according to High Fliers’ The Graduate Market in 2023 report.
The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time.
Star and Planet Formation* – 15 credits
Cosmology* – 15 credits
General Relativity – 15 credits
Winds, Bubbles and Explosions – 15 credits
Exoplanetary Systems – 15 credits
Research Skills in Astrophysics – 30 credits
Current Research Topics in Physics – 15 credits
MSc Research Project – 60 credits
*If you’ve previously studied these modules at Leeds, you’ll not be required to undertake them again. Instead, you’ll have the choice to study up to 30 credits in other physics modules if you wish, but your choice must be approved in advance by your Programme Leader.
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