BSc Hons Physics with Astrophysics

At University of Central Lancashire, the BSc (Hons) Physics with Astrophysics degree is designed to be highly experiential—right from work in laboratories and observatories to independent and group research projects. You'll quickly move beyond theory into first‑hand application, supported throughout by research-informed teaching and state‑of‑the‑art facilities.

Students build practical expertise through on‑campus observatory sessions, lab work spanning the fundamentals of modern physics, computing and data analysis, and collaborative astrophysics projects. You’ll have the chance to conduct your own observational research using a newly installed high‑end robotic telescope—especially for your dissertation.

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

• Alston Observatory Access: UCLan’s dedicated teaching observatory houses over 20 optical telescopes, including a £200,000 robotic telescope used for teaching and individual research. Students regularly carry out observations and use real data for coursework and projects.

• Specialist Physics & Astrophysics Laboratories: You’ll work in labs focused on nuclear physics, optics, quantum mechanics, spectroscopy, and mechanics—supporting both physics and astrophysics modules.

• Research Engagement with Jeremiah Horrocks Institute: Your final-year project is supervised through the Jeremiah Horrocks Institute, which leads collaborations such as the UK‑South African Large Telescope Consortium, COSMOS supercomputer, and data from NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory.

• Final-Year Individual or Group Project: You choose between a physics/astronomy independent dissertation or a teaching placement module. Many students use the observatory data for a research-led thesis under faculty guidance.

• Sandwich Placement or Study Abroad Option: A placement year between years 2 and 3 lets you work in real environments—domestic labs or abroad with partner institutions (including NASA collaborations). You receive support from the Careers team to secure these positions.

• Computational & Data Analysis Tools: Throughout the course you’ll use scientific computing tools (such as Python and data modelling packages) to analyze observatory and survey data, fostering key analytical and programming skills.

• Collaborative Projects & Communication Skills: Modules incorporate team-based projects, group problem-solving, poster presentations, and structured written reports, providing hands-on experience in scientific communication.

• Excellent Academic Support: UCLan Physics & Astrophysics was ranked 1st in the UK for academic support and 2nd for learning opportunities according to the 2023 National Student Survey, guaranteeing close guidance and feedback from tutors.

Graduates of the University of Central Lancashire's BSc (Hons) Physics with Astrophysics are highly employable, moving into roles such as astrophysicist, research scientist, data analyst, scientific programmer, and science communicator, with career opportunities in space science, technology, education, and finance sectors. Many alumni progress to postgraduate study in astrophysics or related fields, supported by the university's strong research focus and industry connections.

Here's how UCLan specifically supports your future:

Career Services & Experiential Learning:
The program combines core physics with specialized astrophysics modules, covering stellar evolution, cosmology, planetary science, and observational techniques. You'll gain hands-on experience using the university's Alston Observatory - one of the UK's largest teaching observatories with a 0.7m telescope - to collect and analyze real astronomical data. The course emphasizes practical skills development through laboratory work, Python programming, and data analysis projects. In your final year, you'll undertake a significant research project supervised by active researchers, developing crucial problem-solving and analytical skills. UCLan's Careers team provides dedicated support including placement opportunities, CV workshops, and connections with employers like BAE Systems and the Science and Technology Facilities Council.

Industry Partnerships & Research:
UCLan's Jeremiah Horrocks Institute maintains strong research collaborations with major facilities including the European Southern Observatory and NASA missions. The university is part of the North West Physics Network and collaborates with local and national employers through knowledge transfer partnerships. Students benefit from the university's £200k refurbished physics labs and access to the on-campus Alston Observatory, which hosts regular public outreach events providing valuable science communication experience.

Accreditation:
The program is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IoP), meeting the educational requirements for Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status and providing recognition for further study or professional qualification.

Graduate Outcomes:
Students develop strong analytical, computational and research skills that are valued across multiple sectors. Recent graduates have secured roles with organizations such as the National Space Centre, research institutions, and technology companies, while others have progressed to postgraduate study at institutions including UCLan and other leading UK universities.

Further Academic Progression:
The program provides excellent preparation for MSc or PhD study in astrophysics or related fields. UCLan offers progression opportunities to its own MSc in Astrophysics and Planetary Science, as well as supporting applications to other institutions. The strong research focus and practical experience gained during the degree also prepare graduates for direct entry into technical roles in research, industry or science communication.