MPhys Hons in Physics with Astrophysics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of York

Program Overview

The MPhys Physics with Astrophysics at York is designed for students who want to explore the mysteries of the universe while mastering the foundations of physics. You’ll gain advanced skills in mathematics, computation, and experimental techniques, preparing you for research or industry careers in physics and astrophysics.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
Your first year builds a strong foundation in core physics. You’ll study Classical Mechanics and Laboratories, Electromagnetism and Relativity, and Classical and Quantum Waves, alongside modules in Mathematical, Computational and Professional Skills. Practical laboratory sessions and the Mapping the Universe module ensure you begin applying theory to real astrophysical contexts.

Year 2
In the second year, you’ll deepen your understanding of physical laws and develop advanced laboratory skills. Modules such as Thermodynamics and Electromagnetism, Astrophysical Technologies and Space Science, and Quantum, Atomic, Nuclear and Particle Physics expand your expertise. You’ll also gain hands-on experience in Astrophysical Laboratories and Skills, preparing you for observational astronomy.

Year 3
Year three introduces advanced concepts and offers flexibility through option modules. Core study includes Stars and Galaxies and the Advanced Astrophysical Laboratory. You can choose from options like Relativity and Cosmology, Plasma Physics and Fusion, or Astrobiology, tailoring your degree to your interests while preparing for your final-year research project.

Year 4
Your final year is research-focused, with the MPhys Research Project and Skills at its core. Under academic supervision, you’ll conduct original research in areas such as Asteroseismology, Type-1a supernova explosions, or Astrophysical methanol masers. Alongside this, you’ll select advanced option modules like Scientific Supercomputing, Cosmic Horizons, or Advanced Plasma Physics for Fusion and Applications, further specialising in your chosen field.

Focus Areas

Astrophysics, cosmology, quantum physics, electromagnetism, observational astronomy, computational modelling.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to apply advanced physics and computational techniques to solve astrophysical problems, conduct independent research, and communicate complex scientific ideas effectively.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IoP), putting you on track to achieve 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.)

Students on this program don’t just learn theory — they actively do physics and astrophysics. From day one, you’ll be immersed in laboratory work, computational modelling, and research-led teaching that connects you directly to the tools and facilities used by professional physicists. The University of York’s School of Physics, Engineering and Technology provides access to cutting-edge laboratories, observatories, and supercomputing resources, ensuring you graduate with hands-on skills that employers and research institutes value.

Here’s how York makes experiential learning a core part of your degree:

Astrophysical Laboratories and Skills: Dedicated lab modules where you’ll work with telescopes, detectors, and data analysis tools to simulate real astrophysical research.
Advanced Astrophysical Laboratory (Year 3): A specialist facility for experiments in observational astronomy, including projects on stars, galaxies, and cosmology.
MPhys Research Project (Year 4): You’ll join active research groups at York, tackling topics such as asteroseismology, supernova explosions, or astrophysical masers. This project mirrors professional research environments and often contributes to published work.
Scientific Supercomputing Module: Training in high-performance computing, giving you direct experience with digital tools used in astrophysics simulations and data-intensive research.
Group Projects and Collaboration: Throughout the program, you’ll work in teams on laboratory investigations and computational modelling tasks, developing teamwork and communication skills alongside technical expertise.
Optional Placement Year: Students can take a year in industry or research, applying their skills in professional settings and gaining valuable career experience.
York’s Library and Research Institutes: Access to the University’s extensive library collections and the York Plasma Institute, which connects astrophysics with cutting-edge plasma and fusion research.
Specialist Facilities: The School houses advanced laboratories for optics, quantum physics, and space science, ensuring you gain practical exposure across multiple domains of physics.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of York’s MPhys Physics with Astrophysics are highly sought after for their analytical, computational, and problem-solving skills. Many progress into roles such as research scientist, data analyst, software developer, or space and aerospace industry specialist. The program equips you with both technical expertise and transferable skills, opening doors across academia, industry, and beyond:

University Careers and Placements Service: York offers tailored support through its Careers and Placements team, including one-to-one guidance, employer networking events, and access to exclusive internships and graduate schemes.
Employment Stats & Salary Figures: According to the University of York, 93% of Physics graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months of graduation, with typical starting salaries ranging from £25,000–£30,000 depending on sector.
University–Industry Partnerships: The School of Physics, Engineering and Technology collaborates with organisations such as the UK Space Agency, European Space Agency (ESA), and the York Plasma Institute, giving students exposure to cutting-edge research and industry connections.
Long-Term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IoP), supporting graduates on the path to Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status — a globally recognised professional qualification.
Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to careers in astrophysics research, computing, finance, and engineering, while others have joined PhD programs at York and internationally, contributing to discoveries in cosmology, plasma physics, and quantum technologies.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MPhys, students can continue into PhD research in astrophysics, cosmology, or plasma physics at York or other leading institutions worldwide. The program’s strong research foundation also supports progression into interdisciplinary doctoral studies, such as computational physics, data science, or engineering physics, ensuring graduates remain at the forefront of scientific innovation.