BSc Hons Physics Astrophysics and Cosmology

Here’s how studying Physics, Astrophysics and Cosmology BSc (Hons) at the University of Portsmouth gives you immersive, hands‑on experience from day one, with access to exceptional facilities and industry‑level tools:

You'll gain practical skills by engaging directly with real astronomical data, simulations, and lab experiments. You'll spend time in physics labs, observatories, and using the university’s supercomputer. Field trips with expert-led workshops and observatory visits mean you’re not just studying theory—you’re applying it. Throughout your time on the course, you’ll collaborate on group projects, use professional software platforms, and build a major individual research project in your final year:

Here’s what that looks like:

• Cutting‑edge Laboratories & Equipment: Access Physics & Wave Synoptics labs (conduct experiments like electron diffraction and measure the speed of light using LabVIEW—the same control software used at CERN’s LHC), Quantum Optics and Nanomaterials labs, and a Materials Coating facility with a LAB Line KJL plasma sputtering system. You’ll also use spectroscopy tools, x-ray diffraction and fluorescence equipment guided by technical staff.

• Supercomputing & Modelling Tools: Work with Portsmouth’s SCIAMA high‑performance computing facility for simulations and data analysis, including billion‑calculation‑per‑second cosmological modelling.

• Astronomy Field Visits & Observatory Access: As part of modules like Universe: Planetary Systems, Stars and Galaxies, you’ll visit Clanfield Observatory (run by the Hampshire Astronomical Group) and operate a research‑grade 24‑inch reflector telescope, alongside other dome telescopes. These visits often include planetarium excursions to South Downs Planetarium. You’ll collect real observational data and apply statistical and modelling techniques to interpret it.

• Group Projects & Module Work: In your final years, you’ll work on group projects (e.g. a 20‑credit Group Project), present posters or joint research, and complete computer modelling reports as part of coursework assessments.

• Optional Placement Year: You can apply for a work‑placement year between years 2 and 3, or after Year 3, with placements at places like M‑Solv UK, Tesla Engineering or Culham Science Centre. You’ll benefit from mentoring and structured support to prepare for industry roles.

• Final‑Year Research Project: You complete a substantial independent research project in your final year (especially in the MPhys integrated option), working closely with the Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation faculty researchers and potentially contributing to live research projects.

• Data Sets & Research‑grade Software: On the MPhys, you’ll access major sky‑survey datasets like the Sloan Digital Sky Survey for analysis. The course includes computational physics workshops using industry‑standard tools and software for simulation, data modelling, and analysis.

• Research Integration with the Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation (ICG): You’ll learn and sometimes collaborate within the ICG—ranked among the UK’s top research groups—working on real cutting‑edge cosmology and astrophysics questions, including gravitational wave detection, galaxy evolution, and theoretical cosmology.

Graduates of the University of Portsmouth’s BSc (Hons) Physics, Astrophysics and Cosmology are highly employable, moving into roles such as astrophysicist, research scientist, data analyst, scientific programmer, science communicator, and positions in sectors including space research, technology, finance, and education. Many alumni also pursue MSc or PhD studies in astrophysics, cosmology, or related fields, supported by the university’s strong research focus and industry connections.

Here’s how Portsmouth specifically supports your future:

Career Services & Experiential Learning
The program blends core physics with specialized modules in astrophysics and cosmology, covering topics like stellar evolution, galaxy formation, dark matter, and the origins of the universe. You’ll develop hands-on skills in laboratory work, programming (Python, MATLAB), and data analysis, applying techniques to real astronomical datasets. In your final year, you’ll complete an independent research project, working alongside active researchers in Portsmouth’s Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation (ICG). The university’s Careers and Employability Service offers tailored career advice, internships, networking events, and employer partnerships (e.g., with the UK Space Agency, Airbus, and local observatories).

Industry Partnerships & Research
Portsmouth’s Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation (ICG) is a leading UK research hub, contributing to major international projects like the Dark Energy Survey, ESA’s Euclid mission, and the Square Kilometre Array (SKA). Students benefit from collaborations with institutions such as NASA, CERN, and the European Southern Observatory (ESO). The university also partners with tech and aerospace companies for student placements, knowledge transfer, and graduate opportunities. Facilities include high-performance computing labs, a dedicated astronomy observatory, and access to global telescope networks.

Accreditation
The degree is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), ensuring it meets professional standards and provides a pathway to Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status or further postgraduate study.

Graduate Outcomes
Graduates leave with advanced problem-solving, computational modeling, and research skills, making them competitive for roles in space science, data analytics, academia, and engineering. The program’s emphasis on coding (Python, C++) and big-data analysis aligns with growing demand in tech and finance sectors.

Further Academic Progression
After your BSc, you can progress to Portsmouth’s integrated MPhys program or pursue MSc/PhD studies at top universities in astrophysics, cosmology, or computational physics. The ICG’s global reputation and research mentorship provide strong foundations for academic careers or industry roles in space agencies, observatories, and R&D sectors.