BSc Hons Astrophysics

At the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), the BSc (Hons) Astrophysics program is all about immersing you in real, hands-on science from day one. You’ll learn in small classes with supportive staff who are active researchers, and you’ll have access to some of the UK’s best facilities for both observational and theoretical astrophysics. Whether you’re working in the lab, at the telescope, or with advanced data analysis software, you’ll be building the practical skills that employers and research institutes value.

Here’s how UCLan brings astrophysics to life for you:

• Direct access to the Alston Observatory: One of the UK’s finest teaching observatories, featuring more than 20 high-spec telescopes—including a state-of-the-art, 70 cm-diameter robotic telescope, recently upgraded with a £200,000 investment, for real astronomical observations and research projects.

• Use of specialist physics laboratories: For experiments in nuclear physics, optics, quantum physics, laser physics, spectroscopy, and astrophysics, all equipped with advanced instruments such as oscilloscopes, spectrometers, lasers, and detectors.

• Hands-on experience with industry-standard software: For analysis, interpretation, and modelling of astronomical data, mirroring the tools used by research staff in the Centre for Astrophysics.

• Practical laboratory sessions and observatory experiments embedded in your modules: Including work with AC/DC circuits, electronics, and computer programming for astrophysical applications.

• Opportunities to join funded internships, summer research placements, and independent projects, with some students presenting their work at international conferences and even achieving publication in scientific journals.

• Group work, problem-solving classes, and collaborative projects: These develop your teamwork and communication skills, essential for a career in science or industry.

• Teaching and supervision from members of the Jeremiah Horrocks Institute: A research-active team with expertise in galactic and extragalactic astrophysics, stellar astrophysics, solar physics, and more.

• Assessment through a mix of written exams, assignments, lab logbooks, reports, and presentations: Ensuring you develop both practical and academic strengths.

• Full accreditation by the Institute of Physics (IOP): Allowing you to progress toward Chartered Physicist status after graduation.

Graduates of the University of Central Lancashire’s BSc (Hons) Astrophysics are highly employable, moving into roles such as research scientist, astronomer, data analyst, scientific programmer, space industry specialist, and science educator. Many alumni also pursue further study in astrophysics, physics, engineering, or related fields, or work in sectors including research, government, finance, technology, and education.

Here’s how UCLan specifically supports your future:

• Career Services & Experiential Learning: You will study at one of the UK’s best-equipped teaching observatories, the Alston Observatory, which recently received a £200,000 investment and houses what is likely the most powerful modern optical telescope available in the country. The program features hands-on laboratory work in nuclear physics, mechanics, optics, quantum physics, laser physics, spectroscopy, and astrophysics. You’ll develop practical skills in astronomical observation, data analysis, and computer programming, and have the opportunity to complete summer internships, some of which are funded and can lead to publications or presentations at international conferences. In your third year, you will undertake a Physics/Astronomy Project or a UAS Teaching Placement, providing direct research or teaching experience.

• Industry Partnerships & Research: UCLan collaborates with world leaders in the field, including NASA and the Southern African Large Telescope, and is a leading member of the UK Southern African Large Telescope Consortium. The university hosts the UK hub for data from the Solar Dynamics Observatory and is home to the Jeremiah Horrocks Institute for Mathematics, Physics, and Astronomy, which pursues research into the physics of stars, galaxies, and the universe. These connections offer students opportunities to join active research projects and international collaborations, and to participate in funded internships.

• Employment Stats & Salary: Physics and astrophysics graduates from UCLan are in high demand for their analytical and mathematical skills, with alumni working at high-profile organisations such as BAE and NASA. The degree prepares you for roles in industry, government research institutes, overseas observatories, financial institutions, scientific journalism, and more.

• Accreditation: The BSc (Hons) Astrophysics is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), the professional body for physics in the UK and Ireland. This accreditation allows graduates to progress towards Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status, providing industry-wide recognition of your qualification.

• Graduate Outcomes: You’ll graduate with advanced analytical, mathematical, and computational skills, as well as hands-on experience in observational and theoretical astrophysics. The curriculum is designed to prepare you for both immediate employment and further academic or professional training in physics, astronomy, and related fields.

Further Academic Progression: After your BSc (Hons) Astrophysics at UCLan, you can pursue an MSc in astrophysics, physics, or related subjects at UCLan or other leading universities. The program also prepares you for professional roles in research, industry, education, or science communication, supported by UCLan’s strong research culture, faculty mentorship, and extensive industry and global partnerships.