BSc (Hons) Astronomy, Space Science and Astrophysics

If you’re fascinated by the cosmos and want to be part of real space missions, the BSc (Hons) Astronomy, Space Science and Astrophysics at the University of Kent is an ideal choice. This program is designed to give you hands-on experience with the tools, techniques, and data that professional astronomers and space scientists use every day. You’ll work alongside experts, contribute to current research, and build the practical skills that employers in the space sector value.

You’ll benefit from:

• Access to the Beacon Observatory: A fully automated, internet-connected facility with an optical telescope and a high-speed camera (90 frames per second), allowing you to make remote and on-site astronomical observations and participate in real research projects.

• A dedicated data analysis laboratory module: Where you’ll develop expertise in handling, processing, and interpreting astronomical and space science data.

• Involvement with real space missions: From ESA and NASA, as well as opportunities to work on data from the Hubble Space Telescope and images from giant observatories.

• Practical laboratory sessions: In recently refurbished, industry-standard teaching labs, where you’ll conduct experiments and develop your experimental, computational, and analytical skills.

• Group projects and open-ended laboratory investigations: Fostering teamwork and problem-solving as you tackle real scientific challenges.

• Modules covering key topics, such as spacecraft design, star formation, astrobiology, galaxy and star properties, exoplanet detection, and the physics of the solar system, all with a strong practical component.

• Opportunities to use authentic astronomical data and CCD cameras: Deepening your understanding of observational techniques and astrophysics.

• Lectures, workshops, and project classes delivered by active researchers: Ensuring you learn cutting-edge science and gain insight into current developments in astronomy and space science.

• Membership in a lively community of space and physics enthusiasts, with student societies like Space Soc and PhySoc offering social and networking events.

• Full accreditation by the Institute of Physics: Ensuring your degree meets professional standards and is recognised by employers worldwide.

Graduates of the University of Kent’s BSc (Hons) Astronomy, Space Science and Astrophysics are highly employable, moving into roles such as space scientist, research scientist, spacecraft engineer, data analyst, aerospace/defence specialist, medical physicist, teacher, and science communicator. Many alumni also pursue further study in astrophysics, space science, engineering, or related fields, or work in sectors including government agencies, research institutions, education, and industry.

Here’s how Kent specifically supports your future:

• Career Services & Experiential Learning: The program offers hands-on experience through the use of the Beacon Observatory (with both optical and radio telescopes), a dedicated data analysis lab, and access to state-of-the-art research laboratories and photonics facilities. Students participate in real space missions with ESA and NASA, analyse Hubble Space Telescope data, and work with images from giant telescopes. You may also choose to add a year in industry, gaining paid work experience in the UK or abroad, with support from Kent’s placement advisers and regular check-ins during your placement year.

• Industry Partnerships & Research: The University of Kent has strong links with the European Space Agency (ESA), NASA, optical laboratories, local health authorities, aerospace/defence industries, and software and engineering companies. Students benefit from involvement in real space missions and research collaborations, as well as opportunities to join student societies such as Space Soc and PhySoc for networking and skills development. The Beacon Observatory provides practical training in astronomical observation and data analysis, and students work alongside active researchers in areas like star formation, spacecraft design, and astrobiology.

• Employment Stats & Salary: Graduates are equipped with highly transferable skills in problem-solving, analytical thinking, programming, and teamwork. They have gone on to work for employers such as Airbus, the Met Office, Defence Engineering and Science Group (MoD), and BAE Systems. The degree’s strong technical and analytical focus opens doors to careers in research, engineering, aerospace/defence, medical physics, teaching, finance, and data analytics.

• Accreditation: The BSc (Hons) Astronomy, Space Science and Astrophysics is fully accredited by the Institute of Physics (IoP), ensuring professional recognition and a pathway to further professional qualifications or postgraduate study.

• Graduate Outcomes: Students graduate with a robust foundation in physics, astronomy, and space science, and advanced skills in observation, computation, and data analysis. The curriculum covers spacecraft design, star and galaxy formation, astrobiology, planetary science, and cosmology, preparing you for both immediate employment and further academic or professional training.

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