BSc Physics with Astrophysics

The University of Bath's BSc (Hons) Physics with Astrophysics program combines fundamental physics with cutting-edge astrophysical research, preparing students for careers in both academic research and industry. Accredited by the Institute of Physics, this program offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience in astrophysics.

You'll develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills through a curriculum that covers both core physics principles and specialized astrophysics topics. The program emphasizes hands-on learning with access to excellent facilities and research opportunities from the first year.

Experiential learning highlights in this program:

• Observational Astronomy Projects: Gain practical experience using the University's optical telescopes and radio astronomy equipment, including opportunities for remote observations.

• Research-Led Teaching: Learn from academics involved in major international projects like the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) and LIGO gravitational wave detector.

• Advanced Computing Facilities: Access to high-performance computing resources for astrophysical data analysis and simulations.

• Final Year Research Project: Conduct an independent astrophysics research project under expert supervision, potentially contributing to ongoing research.

• Industrial Placement or Study abroad Year: Optional professional placement year to gain valuable work experience in relevant industries or year abroad at partner univeristies.

• Modern Laboratories: Work with advanced equipment in purpose-built physics and astrophysics labs.

• Collaborative Learning: Participate in group projects and problem-solving sessions mirroring real-world research environments.

The program maintains strong industry links with organizations like the UK Space Agency and Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, providing excellent career prospects. Graduates have gone on to work in space science, data analysis, and research roles.

Graduates of University of Bath’s BSc (Hons) Physics with Astrophysics are highly employable, often entering careers such as data scientist, software/IT consultant or developer, imaging scientist, machine-learning engineer, physics-based roles in aerospace or healthcare, and consultant or analyst positions across finance and business sectors. Many proceed to postgraduate study in fields like astrophysics, quantum physics, or mathematical physics.

Here’s how Bath specifically supports your future:

Career Services & Experiential Learning:

• Students can opt for a professional placement year, securing full-time roles aligned with career interests—recent hosts include BAE Systems, CERN, Dyson, Morgan Stanley, Rolls‑Royce, and Samsung. Placement support is provided by a specialist team.

• Alternatively, you can choose to study abroad for one or two semesters at partner institutions like Purdue University, University of Queensland, National University Singapore, or University of Helsinki.

• Teaching incorporates lectures, seminars, tutorials, and labs (typically 18–22 contact hours/week in year 1), increasing independent study over time. Final-year dissertations/projects vary from astrophysics to broader physics.

Industry Partnerships & Research:

• The programme is research-led, with links to Bath’s broader physics research themes—such as quantum optics, graphene, nano-engines, and theoretical symmetry—feeding into astrophysics teaching. Undergraduate students can conduct their own research, including a substantial final‑year project.

• Faculty include leading astrophysics researchers; for instance, Professor Carole Mundell founded the university’s astrophysics group and leads high‑energy astrophysics efforts.

• The department also contributes to space weather research via academics like Professor Cathryn Mitchell, combining research with industry and government partnerships.

Accreditation:

• The Physics with Astrophysics degree is accredited by the Institute of Physics (UK & Ireland), meeting professional standards for both further study and employment.

Graduate Outcomes:

• Of all Physics with Astrophysics BSc / MPhys graduates surveyed in 2021/22, 64% were employed, 12% in further study, 5% self-employed and 11% unemployed (15 months post-graduation).

• Example graduate roles include app developer, data scientist, imaging scientist, software engineer, machine learning engineer, management/IT consultant, and audit associate. Employers include Boeing, JP Morgan Chase, Ministry of Defence, Science & Tech Facilities Council, NHS, and tech consultancies.

Further Academic Progression:

• Many graduates continue to postgraduate study (Master’s or PhD) in astrophysics, physics branches, or mathematical physics. The final-year project and research culture support those aiming for academic or research careers.