BSc Astronomy

If you’re excited about exploring the universe using real telescopes and cutting-edge technology, the BSc Astronomy at the University of Glasgow is the perfect launchpad for your ambitions. This program is all about learning by doing: you’ll use world-class facilities, work with leading researchers, and develop hands-on skills that prepare you for careers in science, technology, or further study.

At Glasgow, experiential learning is woven into every year of your degree. Here’s what you can expect:

• Access to the Acre Road Observatory: Use a 16-inch Dall–Kirkham telescope with a Rotarion remote turret, a 14-inch Meade solar dome telescope, portable telescopes, imaging devices, and spectrometers for immersive observational astronomy.

• Radio astronomy equipment and software: Train with a 3-metre dish tuned to the 21-cm hydrogen line, a 408-MHz pulsar telescope, a Callisto solar monitoring system, and a developing 3-cm moonbounce system—all supported by software-defined radio backends and GNURadio processing pipelines.

• Hands-on telescope operation and software training: Receive extensive practical training in optical and radio telescope operation, astronomical software, and data analysis, especially from Year 2 onward.

• Observatory-based teaching laboratories and workshops: Complete experimental work and develop research and technical skills directly within Glasgow’s purpose-built astronomy facilities.

• Small planetarium access: Participate in immersive, simulation-based learning experiences to visualise celestial phenomena and practice observational techniques.

• Group and individual research projects: In your Honours years, undertake collaborative projects and complete an independent research project embedded in a research-active group using advanced astronomical instrumentation and data science techniques.

• Collaboration with leading researchers: Learn from staff involved in major international research projects, including NASA’s Solar Orbiter mission and gravitational wave research.

• Public outreach opportunities: Engage with the Glasgow Science Centre and its renowned planetarium, gaining experience in science communication and public engagement.

• Full access to academic resources: Benefit from the university’s libraries, digital tools, and the broader resources of the Physics & Astronomy department.

University of Glasgow’s BSc Astronomy offers a dynamic and research-driven education for students passionate about the cosmos. Graduates are highly employable, moving into roles such as research scientist, data analyst, IT business analyst, systems designer, programmer, software developer, meteorologist, and science educator. Many alumni also pursue further studies (MSc or PhD) in astronomy, astrophysics, or related fields before entering the job market.

Here’s how Glasgow specifically supports your future:

• Career Services & Experiential Learning: The program combines lectures with hands-on training at the university’s observatory, planetarium, and telescope facilities. You’ll develop practical skills in modern observational methods, advanced astronomical instrumentation, and data analysis techniques. In your final year, you will complete an independent research project embedded in an active research group, gaining experience in teamwork, presentation, and technical writing. There are also opportunities for study abroad and participation in international research projects.

• Employment Stats & Salary: While specific salary data is not published, Glasgow physics and astronomy graduates are in demand across a wide range of industries for their scientific knowledge, mathematical, and analytical skills. Recent graduates have secured positions as IT business analysts, systems designers, and software development professionals, and many go on to postgraduate study.

• Industry Partnerships & Research: Glasgow’s staff have strong international links and play leading roles in major projects such as NASA’s Solar Orbiter mission and global gravitational wave collaborations. The university’s Space Glasgow research unit works with industry partners and the European Space Agency, offering students exposure to cutting-edge research and professional networks. There are also close ties to the Glasgow Science Centre and its planetarium, supporting public engagement and outreach.

• Accreditation: The BSc Astronomy is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), ensuring professional standards and recognition in the field.

• Graduate Outcomes: Students graduate with strong scientific, mathematical, computational, and research skills, along with experience in independent and group project work. The curriculum is designed to prepare you for both immediate employment and further academic or professional training.

Further Academic Progression: After your BSc Astronomy at Glasgow, you can pursue an MSc in astronomy, astrophysics, or related subjects, or enter professional roles in research, industry, education, or public engagement, supported by the program’s rigorous training and extensive research and industry links.