BSc Hons in Physics with Astrophysics

Here’s how students on the BSc (Hons) Physics with Astrophysics (with optional placement or year abroad) programme at York gain hands‑on experience using top-tier facilities and tools:

You’ll learn by doing—from radio and optical telescope observations to cutting-edge computational analysis and lab investigations—supported by expert staff. The course is structured so that practical skills develop alongside theory, preparing you for intensive group projects, internships, or global study. You’ll also benefit from York’s vibrant research environment and dedicated physics spaces.

And here’s how it comes together with real opportunities and resources:

• Astrocampus, Atomic & Nuclear Lab, plus dedicated computational labs
  These specialised spaces let you dive into optical, solar and radio observations, nuclear experiments, and computational physics in one place

• Virtual lab tours & modern teaching tower facilities
  First-rate equipment, flexible labs for advanced 3rd-year work and final-year projects, and computational studios support hands-on learning and self-study

• Mapping the Universe module (Year 1)
  A mix of workshops, hands‑on labs, group assignments, telescope use, and scientific report writing gives you a true astrophysics foundation from day one

• Final-year original research project
  In teams, you’ll design and conduct a genuine research investigation (e.g., in radio astronomy or infrared spectroscopy) under expert academic supervision

• Optional placement year / study abroad
  You can opt for a full year working in industry or studying at an overseas university, gaining professional or international experience

• Masterclass research placements & paid summer internships
  Students with high academic performance (A* + Year‑1 score ≥ 70%) get guaranteed placement opportunities in York’s research groups, and summer placement schemes are available

• Software & digital tools
  You’ll work with specialist data-analysis and modelling software (e.g., telescope‑control, spectroscopy and simulation tools) in computational labs, supported by workshops and staff guidance.

• Group work & presentations
  Expect collaborative module-based work and structured presentation tasks—training you to communicate complex astrophysics clearly (e.g., formal reports and group presentations).

• Internships & industrial links
  The White Rose Industrial Physics Academy connects you with industry partners, and placement options help you gain real-world experience

• York Plasma Institute & campus research institutes
  Opportunities to engage with interdisciplinary research, such as plasma physics or fusion, through institute-led projects

• Extensive labs & specialist libraries
  From foundational year labs through advanced studios, plus the physics-specific study spaces and York’s main library network for research and coursework

Graduates of University of York’s BSc (Hons) Physics with Astrophysics are highly employable, often entering roles such as astrophysicist, research scientist, data analyst, IT consultant, engineer, or science educator. Many proceed to postgraduate study in physics, astrophysics, data science, or related areas.

Here’s how York specifically supports your future:

Career Services & Experiential Learning:

• The degree embeds career and employability support into teaching: students build digital portfolios, attend careers fairs and leadership exercises, and develop transferable skills in analysis, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

• You have the option of a paid industrial placement (Year 3) via the White Rose Industrial Physics Academy, partnering with employers like Dyson, Airbus, BAE Systems, Jaguar Land Rover, STFC, Thales, and more. Academic and industrial supervisors guide you through the placement.

• If you don’t secure a placement, you’ll follow the standard Astrophysics track, or you may choose the study abroad option to spend a year at a partner university.

Industry Partnerships & Research:

• Teaching is research-led, drawing on York’s reputation in astrophysics and physics. Students participate in team-based final-year research projects in areas like radio astronomy, infrared spectroscopy, variable stars, and cosmology.

• York offers modern facilities including the Astrocampus observatory, atomic and nuclear labs, and dedicated computational labs. These support practical learning and project work.

Accreditation:

• The programme is accredited by the Institute of Physics (UK & Ireland), aligning with professional standards for physics and astrophysics. It's a pathway towards Chartered Physicist status.

Graduate Outcomes:
Graduates leave with advanced problem-solving, computational, and research skills, making them competitive for roles in astrophysics, data science, engineering, and finance. Employers value their ability to model complex systems and analyze large datasets.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BSc, students can progress to MSc or PhD programs in astrophysics, space science, or related fields at York or other top universities. The degree also prepares graduates for research careers, science communication, or technical roles in industry, supported by York’s strong academic mentorship and global research network.