MSci (Hons) Astrophysics

Royal Holloway, University of London

Our students frequently express that their passion for studying Physics originates from a desire to learn about the Higgs particle, dark matter, nanotechnology, or simply a broad curiosity about the workings of the universe. Regardless of your motivations, our Physics department is dedicated to informing and inspiring you in the study of Physics, the most fundamental of the sciences.

In our four-year Astrophysics MSci program, you will grasp new concepts and paradigms, building a robust conceptual framework for an advanced understanding and appreciation of nature. You will master core Physics principles, including classical physics and quantum phenomena, while also honing your mathematical and experimental skills.

Unlike solid-state physics (as with the Physics MSci) the emphasis will shift to astronomy, astrophysics and cosmology, and in later years you’ll cover topics such as Stellar Astrophysics and Atomic & Nuclear Physics. As you progress through the course, modules in Particle Astrophysics, Planetary Geology and Geophysics, General Relativity & Cosmology and Optics will lead you into research level topics which you’ll cover in greater depth as an MSci student, than on a BSc degree. In your fourth year you can choose from an incomparably wide range of options and expertise, including courses from University College London, King’s College London and Queen Mary, University of London.

We’re a research-intensive department based at our Surrey campus – well away from the light pollution of the big city, which allows our telescopes to provide the best observational astronomy in the University of London. We also have close ties with, and conduct research at major international laboratories such as CERN, ISIS and Diamond, plus collaborations with SEPnet universities and other major institutions around the world.

Our teaching is informed by the most up-to-date research, and you’ll get to work closely with research groups, in laboratories where they work first hand on Physics at the forefront of research.