BSc Hons in Physics with Astrophysics with a Year in Industry

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of York

Program Overview

York’s BSc Physics with Astrophysics (with a Year in Industry) is perfect for students who want to explore the universe while gaining real-world experience in science and technology.
This four-year program blends core physics with specialist astrophysics modules and a paid industrial placement, preparing you for careers in research, engineering, and data science.

Curriculum structure

Year 1: Core Foundations and Cosmic Context
You’ll begin with essential physics and mathematics, learning how to model classical systems and explore wave-particle duality. Modules include Classical Mechanics and Laboratories, Classical and Quantum Waves, and Electromagnetism and Relativity. You’ll also take Mapping the Universe and Laboratories, which introduces observational astronomy and cosmology, alongside Mathematical, Computational and Professional Skills 1 & 2.

Year 2: Advanced Physics and Astrophysical Techniques
This year deepens your understanding of mechanics, quantum physics, and experimental design. You’ll study Advanced Mechanics, Quantum Physics, and Physics Laboratories and Skills, where you’ll conduct extended experiments. Astrophysics continues with Stars and Galaxies, exploring stellar evolution, galactic dynamics, and observational methods.

Year 3: Industrial Placement
You’ll spend a paid year working in industry, applying your physics and astrophysics training in a professional setting. York’s placement team and the White Rose Industrial Physics Academy help match students with organisations such as Rolls-Royce, the UK Atomic Energy Authority, and the National Nuclear Laboratory. You’ll be supported by both academic and industrial supervisors throughout the year.

Year 4: Specialisation and Research
Back on campus, you’ll tackle advanced topics through modules like Advanced Theoretical Techniques and Modelling Matter. You’ll also take Astrophysics and Astronomical Imaging, applying computational and observational tools to study celestial phenomena. The year culminates in a group research project, presented at a student conference.

Focus areas: observational astronomy, cosmology, quantum physics, stellar evolution, galactic dynamics, nuclear physics, computational modelling
Learning outcomes: apply physics and astrophysics principles to solve complex problems; conduct and interpret investigations; communicate scientific concepts; collaborate effectively; use digital and experimental tools
Professional alignment (accreditation): accredited by the Institute of Physics, supporting Chartered Physicist status
Reputation (employability rankings):

2nd in the Russell Group for Learning Resources in Physics (National Student Survey 2024)
5th in the UK for departmental research environment (Times Higher Education REF 2021)

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

York’s BSc Physics with Astrophysics (with a Year in Industry) is designed for students who want to explore the universe through hands-on science and real-world experience.
From your first year, you’ll work in specialist labs, use professional-grade software, and develop observational and computational skills that mirror the work of professional physicists and astronomers. The third-year industrial placement adds a powerful layer of practical learning, giving you paid experience with leading organisations in science and technology.

Here’s how York delivers experiential learning:

Astrocampus: A dedicated astronomy facility where students engage with observational techniques and astrophysics projects.
Mapping the Universe and Astronomical Imaging Modules: Use real data and imaging tools to study celestial objects and cosmic structures.
Undergraduate Physics Laboratories: Host experiments across all core topics, from electromagnetism to quantum mechanics.
Atomic and Nuclear Lab: Purpose-built for advanced experimentation in nuclear physics and particle detection.
Flexible Teaching Tower Labs: Used for final-year research projects, including simulations using Geant Monte Carlo software for CERN-related work.
Computational Laboratories: Equipped with specialist software for simulations, modelling, and data analysis—used across multiple modules.
Group Research Projects: In Year 4, students collaborate on original investigations and present findings at a student research conference.
Industrial Placement Year: Supported by the White Rose Industrial Physics Academy, students work full-time in paid roles with partners like Rolls-Royce, the UK Atomic Energy Authority, and the National Nuclear Laboratory.
Professional Skills Modules: Embedded in the curriculum to build scientific writing, presentation, and digital fluency.
Library and Study Spaces: Includes two dedicated undergraduate physics study areas and access to York’s extensive academic resources.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of York’s BSc Physics with Astrophysics (with a Year in Industry) are equipped with the analytical, technical, and collaborative skills to thrive in science, technology, and data-driven sectors.
Many go on to roles such as research scientist, software developer, data analyst, or systems engineer—often in industries like aerospace, energy, finance, and computing. The industrial placement year gives students a competitive edge, with many securing job offers from their host organisations.

Here’s how York supports your future success:

Careers and Placements Team: Offers tailored support for physics students, including CV reviews, mock interviews, and employer networking events.
Physics Employability Programme: Features career panels, alumni talks, and employer-led workshops to help students explore career paths and build connections.
Graduate Employment: 90% of York physics graduates are in work or further study within 15 months (HESA Graduate Outcomes 2020).
Salary Prospects: Physics graduates from York earn a median salary of £28,000 within 15 months of graduation.
Industry Partnerships: York collaborates with the White Rose Industrial Physics Academy, connecting students to placements with Rolls-Royce, the UK Atomic Energy Authority, and the National Nuclear Laboratory.
Accreditation Value: The degree is accredited by the Institute of Physics, supporting your path to Chartered Physicist status and enhancing long-term career credibility.
Graduate Destinations: Alumni have joined employers such as BAE Systems, Jaguar Land Rover, Virgin Money, and the NHS.

Further Academic Progression:
After graduation, students often pursue MSc or PhD programs in astrophysics, quantum technologies, cosmology, or interdisciplinary fields like medical physics and data science. York’s own postgraduate physics degrees offer a seamless next step, supported by the department’s research strengths in nuclear physics, quantum materials, and astronomical imaging.