BSc Physics with Astronomy

Here’s how students on the BSc Physics with Astronomy programme at Cardiff University benefit from hands‑on, research-led learning—gaining real-world skills in modern labs, observatories, and computational environments:

You’ll begin with interactive physics labs and computational modules from day one, building practical experience through experiments, simulations, and group work. As you progress, you'll dive into observational astronomy using real data, culminating in a final‑year research project directly supervised by active researchers. Cardiff’s strong astrophysics faculty and cutting-edge instrumentation ensure you're learning at the frontiers of discovery—preparing you thoroughly for research, industry, or further study.

The experiential learning looks like this:

• State‑of‑the‑art labs & computing facilities
  Located in the Queen’s Building, the department hosts dedicated physics labs, lecture theatres, and computer suites for physics, programming, simulation and data analysis modules from Year 1 through Year 3.

• Hands‑on astronomical projects
  You'll work with real observational data—for instance, using the Las Cumbres Observatory's global robotic telescope network in your Observational Techniques module.

• Final‑year astrophysics research thesis
  In your third year you will conceive and carry out a substantial independent research project in astrophysics under supervision by staff from Cardiff’s large astronomy group.

• Specialist research facilities & instrumentation lab
  The Laboratory for Experimental Astrophysics, run by Cardiff’s Astronomy Instrumentation Group (led by Prof. Walter Gear), offers cryogenic testbeds and instrument development capabilities to explore cosmic microwave background and other astrophysics instrumentation.

• Access to facilities support and research institutes
  You benefit from shared access to the Cardiff Diamond Foundry cleanrooms, compound semiconductor fabrication facilities, and low‑temperature test labs within the School of Physics & Astronomy.

• Software & computational tools
  Coursework requires scientific programming (e.g. Python), simulation environments, data‑analysis toolkits—especially in modules like Structured Programming, Computational Skills for Problem Solving, and research project analysis.

• Group work & presentations
  Modules include collaborative lab reports, group problem-solving, and presentations to sharpen communication and teamwork skills.

• Placement option available
  While the core BSc is three years, there is the option of a four‑year version with a professional placement year in industry, government, or research organisations—provided it's chosen. This offers paid experience with companies like Rolls‑Royce, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, EDF and more.

• Astronomy outreach & community engagement
  Students can participate in Universe in the Classroom, serving as STEM role models and using the Las Cumbres Observatory network for school workshops. General involvement is also possible via Cardiff Astronomical Society events.

• Expert academic supervision
  You'll be taught by highly active researchers such as Prof. Stephen Eales (submillimetre galaxies) and Prof. Walter Gear (instrumentation group), embedding your learning in cutting-edge research.

These opportunities mean you'll graduate not just with theoretical knowledge, but with real practical skills: from data collection to instrument understanding, scientific computing, teamwork, and research initiative—bringing astrophysics to life.

Graduates of Cardiff University’s BSc (Hons) Physics with Astronomy are highly employable, commonly entering roles such as astrophysicist, data analyst, scientific programmer, systems engineer, consultant, academic researcher, or educator. Many also progress to master’s and PhD study in astrophysics, physics, data science, or engineering.

Here’s how Cardiff specifically supports your future:

Career Services & Experiential Learning

• Cardiff ranks 8th in the UK for physics (Guardian University Guide 2025) and is 1st among Russell Group universities in course teaching quality, feedback, and academic support (National Student Survey 2024).
• Around 95% of graduates are in employment, further study, or other activities within 15 months of finishing (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021–22).
• Students have access to a dedicated Careers Advisor in the School, personal development planning, CV and interview support, employer events, and on-site placements.

Industry Partnerships & Research

• Cardiff hosts one of the UK’s largest astronomy research groups, with active research in areas like star formation, observational cosmology, gravitational waves, and cosmic instrumentation.
• Course modules and final-year research projects are designed and delivered by research-active faculty. Students may work with observational data from telescopes such as the global Las Cumbres Observatory network.

Accreditation
The Physics with Astronomy BSc is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), ensuring alignment with professional standards and postgraduate eligibility.

Graduate Outcomes

• The 95% employment or further study rate reflects strong career readiness.
• Physics alumni pursue careers across sectors such as aerospace, finance, government science agencies (e.g. ESA), education, and research; employers include Rolls‑Royce, EDF, Lockheed Martin, Barclays, and more.

Further Academic Progression
Many graduates progress to MSc or PhD programmes, aided by department funding opportunities and a strong research-led learning environment.