Astrophysics

Entry requirements

Undergraduate degree in the physical sciences or a related subject (for example mathematics or computer science). We usually ask for a 2:1 degree in physics, astronomy or astrophysics.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Explore the key topics at the cutting edge of modern astrophysics. You’ll get training in the practical skills used by professional astrophysicists and be able to conduct your own astronomical observations.

You'll study the formation and evolution of stars, galaxies and the Universe itself. The course includes training on how to perform your own astronomical observations using our 0.5m telescope, which is located on La Palma in the Canary Islands but can be operated remotely from Sheffield. You can also take part in a subsidised field trip to La Palma and visit some of the world’s top observatories.

There are a number of optional modules to choose from, covering topics to deepen your understanding of the Universe, such as cosmology, dark matter, general relativity and astrobiology. We offer a science communication module, so that you can learn the most effective ways to share scientific ideas with the public, and an enterprise module where you can develop your own idea for a business based on your physics expertise.

The biggest part of the degree is your research project and dissertation. Our team of supervisors ranges from theoretical astrophysicists who are using computational methods to learn how stars form, to scientists building the world's fastest telescope cameras. We can run projects on topics including galaxies, quasars, supernovae, massive stars, white and brown dwarfs, star formation, star clusters, planet formation and the evolution of the solar system.

Please see our University website for the most up-to-date information: www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/taught/courses/

Information for international students

English language requirements

Overall IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component, or equivalent.

For more information about entry requirements for international students, please visit https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/international/applying/postgraduate-taught