MSci Hons Astrophysics

If you’re ready to explore the universe with real research and advanced technology, Queen Mary University of London’s MSci (Hons) Astrophysics is the perfect program for you. This four-year, on-campus integrated master’s degree is accredited by the Institute of Physics and designed to immerse you in both the core of physics and the frontiers of astrophysics, preparing you for a career in research, industry, or further study. Experiential learning is at the heart of the MSci Astrophysics at QMUL.

Here’s how experiential learning comes to life in this program:

• Hands-on laboratory work: In state-of-the-art teaching labs and general physics laboratories, where you’ll develop experimental skills and learn to analyse data and uncertainties.

• Access to the rooftop Astronomical Observatory, equipped with upgraded telescopes (including remote access), for direct observational astronomy and research projects.

• Use of high-performance computing facilities,s including the local supercomputer and the national DiRAC facility, for advanced data analysis and astrophysical simulations.

• Opportunities to work with real mission data from major international collaborations such as JWST, ALMA, the Parker Solar Probe, LIGO, LISA, Euclid, and the Vera Rubin Observatory.

• Final-year and master’s-level research projects in areas like cosmology, exoplanets, gravitational waves, planetary systems, black holes, and more, supervised by internationally recognised researchers in the Astronomy Unit.

• Group projects, peer discussions, and collaborative assignments mirror professional research environments.

• Elective modules in advanced topics such as Advanced Cosmology, Astrophysical Plasmas, Extrasolar Planets and Astrophysical Disks, Relativity and Gravitation, and Radiative Transfer and Astrochemistry.

• Opportunities for summer research placements and professional experience, and the option to study abroad at a partner institution.

• Access to research libraries: Including the Royal Astronomical Society Library, the British Library, and the University of London Library at Senate House for specialist research resources.

• Dedicated study spaces and digital resources, along with technical support within the School of Physical and Chemical Sciences.

Graduates of Queen Mary University of London’s MSci (Hons) Astrophysics are highly employable, moving into roles such as astrophysicist, research scientist, data analyst, scientific programmer, and science educator. Many alumni also pursue PhDs in astrophysics, astronomy, or related fields, supported by the university’s strong research culture and international collaborations.

Here’s how Queen Mary specifically supports your future:

• Career Services & Experiential Learning: The MSci Astrophysics is an Institute of Physics (IoP) accredited integrated master’s program, providing a rigorous foundation in core physics and advanced astrophysics. You’ll study planetary systems, stars, galaxies, and the universe, and develop high-level mathematical, computational, and research skills. The program features increasing module choice in later years, and the fourth year is part of an intercollegiate MSci run jointly with UCL, King’s College London, and Royal Holloway. In your final year, you’ll undertake a substantial research project on a cutting-edge topic, supervised by world-class academic staff involved in major international research collaborations—such as NASA’s Parker Solar Probe, the James Webb Space Telescope, exoplanet discovery, astrobiology, cosmology, and the use of machine learning in space science.

• Employment Stats & Salary: Astrophysics graduates from QMUL are highly sought after, with 95% of postgraduates and PhDs in employment or further study within six months of graduating (Graduate Outcome Survey 2021). Physics graduates in the UK typically earn starting salaries above the national average, and Queen Mary alumni have secured roles with organizations like the UK Space Agency, European Astronaut Centre, Airbus, IBM, Goldman Sachs, and government departments.

• Industry Partnerships & Research: The QMUL Astronomy Unit is an international leader in astrophysics research, with staff involved in high-profile projects such as the Parker Solar Probe, James Webb Space Telescope, and discoveries of exoplanets like Proxima b. The fourth-year intercollegiate structure allows you to take specialist modules at UCL, King’s, and Royal Holloway, expanding your academic and professional network. The program’s strong links to international observatories, research institutes, and industry partners ensure you are exposed to the latest developments and technologies in astrophysics.

• Accreditation: The MSci Astrophysics is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IoP), meeting professional standards for further study and employment in physics and astrophysics.

• Graduate Outcomes: Students graduate with advanced analytical, programming, and research skills, as well as experience in independent and group project work. The curriculum covers a wide range of astrophysics topics, including advanced cosmology, astrophysical plasmas, extrasolar planets, relativity, radiative transfer, and astrochemistry, preparing you for both immediate employment and further academic or professional training.

Further Academic Progression: After your MSci Astrophysics at Queen Mary, you can pursue a PhD in astrophysics, astronomy, or related fields at QMUL or other leading universities. The program also prepares you for professional roles in research, industry, education, or science communication, supported by Queen Mary’s strong research environment, faculty mentorship, and extensive industry and global partnerships.