# Physics and AstrophysicsBSc

**Source**: https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2027/physics-and-astrophysics-bsc
**Parent**: https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2027

2027-28 entry
[View 2026-27 entry](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2026/physics-and-astrophysics-bsc)

# Physics and Astrophysics BSc

School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences

Study the matter of our Universe and the laws that govern it with our accredited BSc Physics and Astrophysics course. Gain an understanding of key concepts across physics and astrophysics, and develop the skills needed for a successful career.

- A Levels
  \
  AAB
- UCAS code
  \
  FF35
- Duration
  \
  3 years
- Start date
  \
  September
- Attendance
  \
  Full-time

- [Accredited](#accreds "Accredited")
- [Course fee](#fees "Fees")
- Funding available
- [Optional placement year](#plstudyabroad "Optional placement year")
- [Study abroad](#plstudyabroad "Study abroad")

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### Explore this course:

## Course description

### Why study this course?

#### 1st in the Russell Group for learning opportunities and learning resources in physics

National Student Survey 2025

#### Top 20 in the UK for physics and astronomy

Complete University Guide 2026

#### 1st in the UK for the quality of physics research

Research Excellence Framework 2021

#### Institute of Physics (IOP) accredited course

This course is accredited by the IOP for fully meeting the educational requirement for Chartered Physicist.

#### Opt to spend a full year on a work placement

Test out a career path, build up your CV and grow your network of contacts.

On this accredited three-year BSc Physics and Astrophysics course, half of your time will be dedicated to studying astrophysics. Along with core physics modules, you will explore advanced astrophysics topics.

In your first two years, you’ll study fundamental physics theories such as heat, motion and quantum mechanics. You’ll also explore key concepts in astrophysics, including the formation of our solar system, stars and galaxies, and observing the night sky.

You’ll have access to the two telescopes on the roof of our building from your first year. Plus, we run a telescope on La Palma in the Canary Islands, which students can use during our annual field trip and during their final year project.

From the start of your degree, you’ll gain hands-on experience in our specialist teaching lab, developing lab skills and learning how theories can be applied in the real world. You’ll also take part in programming classes, which will teach you skills that are valuable in a variety of graduate careers ranging from data science to computer game design.

In your third year, you’ll continue to study essential concepts in physics and astrophysics in even more detail. You’ll have the opportunity to explore a variety of optional modules on subjects including astrobiology, machine learning, and quantum mechanics and advanced electrodynamics.

You'll also get the chance to investigate a real-world problem and refine your technical skills by completing a research project. You’ll choose from a range of different areas, including astrophysics research, industrial group work, physics education, or a project in our Quantum Information Laboratory.

### Accreditation

Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) for the purpose of fully meeting the educational requirement for Chartered Physicist.

[Institute of Physics (IOP)](https://www.iop.org)

## Modules

We're revising the curriculum of the course for this year of entry. Your first year modules are confirmed. For other years of study, the information here gives you an idea of the areas we expect the course to cover, although there may be changes before you begin. As you progress through your course, we’ll confirm additional details for the core and optional modules available to you.

**Title:** Physics and Astrophysics BSc course structure\
**UCAS code:** FF35\
**Years:**
2026,
2027

First year

Second year

Third year

First year

#### Core modules:

Fundamental Physics and Mathematics I: Mechanics, Oscillations, Waves and Thermal Physics
:   This core module will give you an understanding of the fundamental physical principles, mathematical tools, and laboratory skills you'll use throughout your degree. \
    \
    You'll learn about key physical principles, such as Newton's laws, linear and rotational equations of motion, the wave equation, the laws of thermodynamics, and heat transfer. \
    \

    **40 credits**

Fundamental Physics and Mathematics II: Electricity, Magnetism and Quantum Physics
:   In this core module you'll further develop your knowledge of the fundamental physical principles, mathematical tools and laboratory skills needed for your degree.\
    \
    You'll explore topics across electricity, magnetism and quantum physics, such as electric potentials and fields, electrical circuits, magnetic fields, the Lorentz force, the photo-electric effect, and the quantum wave function. You'll also learn to describe these phenomena through vector calculus and probability theory.\
    \
    You'll gain hands-on experience of conducting laboratory work. You'll test various aspects of physical principles, including measuring and mapping electric and magnetic fields, and building and using AC circuits.

    **40 credits**

Mapping the Night Sky: the Astronomer's Toolbox
:   In this core module you'll learn foundational skills and techniques that will support your studies as an astrophysicist,  covering essentials such as astronomical observation, positional astronomy, and computing.\
    \
    You'll learn how to navigate the night sky, plan observations, and use our telescopes. You'll learn how to import and analyse astronomical data in Python, and present these results professionally. You'll also learn how to be effective at self study, conduct and report on research projects ethically, and integrate AI responsibly. \
    \
    You'll employ general problem-solving techniques that are routinely used in physics, including dimensional analysis, making approximations, and checking your calculations using order-of-magnitude estimations, limiting behaviour, and symmetry considerations.\
    \
    Through employability workshops, you'll receive guidance on how to showcase your achievements effectively to help secure projects, placements, and graduate opportunities.

    **20 credits**

Introduction to Astrophysics
:   This module will provide you with an understanding of important physical concepts and techniques involved in astrophysics, with an emphasis on how fundamental results can be derived from observations.\
    \
    You'll apply basic physical principles to astrophysical problems, exploring topics such as solar systems, the properties and evolution of stars and galaxies, as well as the origins and fate of the Universe.

    **20 credits**

Second year

In your second year, you’ll explore essential physics and astrophysics concepts in more detail, and continue to develop your programming, astronomical observation, and laboratory skills.

Example modules:

- Fundamental Physics and Mathematics III: Thermal Physics, Special Relativity and Mathematical Methods
- Fundamental Physics and Mathematics IV: Quantum Physics, Solids and Electromagnetism
- Observing the Night Sky
- Stars and Galaxies

Third year

In your third year, you’ll continue to explore fundamental physics and astrophysics concepts, and gain valuable research experience by undertaking a project and skills module.

Example core modules:

- Astronomy Project and Skills
- Stellar Atmospheres and Astronomical Spectroscopy
- Particle and Atomic Physics
- Dark Matter and Cosmology

You’ll also have the opportunity to tailor your degree to your interests by choosing from a range of optional modules, including astrobiology and the origin of the chemical elements, machine learning, or quantum mechanics and advanced electrodynamics.

The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we will inform students and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

## Learning and assessment

### Learning

To make sure you get the skills and knowledge that every physicist needs, you’ll learn through lectures, small group tutorials, programming classes, practical sessions in the lab and research projects.

We invest to create the right environment for you. That means outstanding facilities, study spaces and support, including 24/7 access to our online library service.

Study spaces and computers are available to offer you choice and flexibility for your study. Our five library sites give you access to over one million books and periodicals. You can access your library account and our rich digital collections from anywhere on or off campus. Other library services include [study skills training](https://sheffield.ac.uk/academic-skills/home "301 Academic Skills") to improve your grades, and tailored advice from experts in your subject.

[Learning support facilities](https://sheffield.ac.uk/study/facilities "Facilities") and [library opening hours](https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/library/libsites/sites)

### Assessment

You’ll be assessed in a variety of ways, including a portfolio of problem sets and lab work, as well as exams, essays, lab reports and presentations.

## Entry requirements

With **Access Sheffield**, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - [find out if you're eligible](https://sheffield.ac.uk/study/policies/access-sheffield "Access Sheffield").

- Standard offer
- Access Sheffield offer

Standard offer

The A Level entry requirements for this course are:\
AAB
\
including Maths and Physics + pass in the practical element of any science A Levels taken

A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
:   ABB, including Maths and Physics + B in a relevant EPQ

International Baccalaureate
:   34, with 6, 5 (in any order) in Higher Level Maths and Physics; 33, with 5 in Higher Level Maths and Physics and B in a physics-based extended essay

BTEC Extended Diploma
:   Not accepted

BTEC Diploma
:   Not accepted

Scottish Highers + Advanced Higher/s
:   AABBB + AB in Maths and Physics

Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
:   B + AA in Maths and Physics

Access to HE Diploma
:   Award of the Access to HE Diploma in Science, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction (all in Maths/Physics units) and 9 at Merit

[Routes for mature students](https://sheffield.ac.uk/education/lifelong-learning "Lifelong Learning")

Access Sheffield offer

The A Level entry requirements for this course are:\
ABB
\
including Maths and Physics + pass in the practical element of any science A Levels taken

A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
:   ABB, including Maths and Physics + B in a relevant EPQ

International Baccalaureate
:   33 with 5 in Higher Level Maths and Physics

BTEC Extended Diploma
:   Not accepted

BTEC Diploma
:   Not accepted

Scottish Highers + Advanced Higher/s
:   ABBBB + AB in Maths and Physics

Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
:   B + AB in Maths and Physics

Access to HE Diploma
:   Award of the Access to HE Diploma in Science, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 30 at Distinction (all in Maths/Physics units) and 15 at Merit

[Routes for mature students](https://sheffield.ac.uk/education/lifelong-learning "Lifelong Learning")

**English language requirements** | 

You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification

[Equivalent English language qualifications](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/apply/english-language "English language requirements for undergraduates")

[Visa and immigration requirements](https://sheffield.ac.uk/student-visas-immigration/home "Student visas and immigration")

**Other qualifications** | [UK](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/apply/uk-qualifications "Other UK qualifications") and [EU/international](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/apply/international-qualifications "International qualifications")

### Pathway programme for international students

If you're an international student who does not meet the entry requirements for this course, you have the opportunity to apply for an [International Foundation Year in Science and Engineering](https://usic.sheffield.ac.uk/programmes/international-foundation-year/science-and-engineering ) at the [University of Sheffield International College](https://usic.sheffield.ac.uk/). This course is designed to develop your English language and academic skills. Upon successful completion, you can progress to degree level study at the University of Sheffield.

If you have any questions about entry requirements, please [contact the school](#contactus).

## Graduate careers

- 89% of BSc Physics and Astrophysics graduates in work or further study 15 months after graduation\
  Graduate Outcomes 2022-23

### School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences

You won’t be short of career options with a degree in physics from Sheffield. Our courses are designed to give you the skills that will help you succeed. Employers hire our graduates because of their ability to plan projects, work to deadlines, analyse data and solve complex problems.

A physics degree from Sheffield can take you far, whatever you want to do. Whether you want a job that involves developing renewable energy technologies, improving medical treatments, creating quantum telecommunications systems or exploring outer space.

We have graduates putting their skills to use in a variety of careers, including:

- research and development
- computing and software development
- data science
- engineering
- finance and consultancy
- public sector roles in healthcare and government
- education.

Our graduates have gone on to work for companies such as BT, BAE Systems, Deloitte, HSBC, IBM, the Ministry of Defence, the NHS and Rolls Royce.

Many of our students choose to pursue a career in research. Sheffield graduates have secured PhDs at many of the world's top 100 universities and have gone on to work at major international research facilities, such as CERN and ESA.

We are part of the White Rose Industrial Physics Academy (WRIPA), a partnership with other universities and technical industries. Our students benefit from collaborations with industrial partners through internships, year in industry placements, final-year projects and careers activities. WRIPA also organises the UK’s largest physics recruitment fair, where our students can meet potential employers.

## School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences

#### 100 per cent of our physics research and impact is rated as world leading or internationally excellent

Research Excellence Framework 2021

The School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences is leading the way with groundbreaking research and innovative teaching.

Our physics and astronomy researchers are focusing on some of the biggest questions in science, such as how to build a quantum computer, how to detect dark matter and how to distribute clean energy.

Our lecturers run experiments on the Large Hadron Collider at CERN, help to map the Universe using the Hubble and James Webb Space Telescopes, and are working with the National Grid to help maximise the potential of solar energy.

To help our students feel part of a community, the Physics Society (PhySoc) organises activities ranging from guest lectures to the annual Hicks Ball. Our students can also take part in an LGBT+ support group and a crafts group.

### Facilities

Physics and astronomy students are based in the Hicks Building, which has classrooms, lecture theatres, computer rooms and specialist undergraduate teaching laboratories.

We have telescopes and a solar technology testbed on the roof, and run a telescope at the Isaac Newton Group of Telescopes on La Palma in the Canary Islands.

We’re home to the UK’s first Quantum Information Laboratory, where students can study the fundamental science behind the next technological revolution.

We also have facilities for building super-resolution microscopes and analysing 2D materials.

[School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences](https://sheffield.ac.uk/mps/home)

## University rankings

**A world top-100 university**\
QS World University Rankings 2026 (92nd)

**Number one in the Russell Group (based on aggregate responses)**\
National Student Survey 2025

**92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent**\
Research Excellence Framework 2021

**University of the Year for Student Experience**\
The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026

**Number one Students' Union in the UK**\
Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017

**Number one for Students' Union**\
StudentCrowd 2025 University Awards

**20th in the UK targeted by the largest number of Top 100 Employers in 2025-26**\
High Fliers 2026

## Student profiles

### What it's really like to study in the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences

We asked some of our students and graduates to share their experiences of studying at the University of Sheffield, and to tell us what they've ended up doing with their degree.

[Explore student profiles](https://sheffield.ac.uk/mps/people/student-profiles "Student profiles")

## Fees and funding

### Fees

[Tuition fees](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/fees-funding "Undergraduate fees and funding")

[Fee status help](https://sheffield.ac.uk/study/fee-status "Fee status")

#### Additional costs

The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.

[Examples of what’s included and excluded](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/fees-costs "Tuition fees and additional costs")

### Funding your study

Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a [bursary, scholarship or loan](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/fees-funding "Undergraduate fees and funding") to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.

Use our [Student Funding Calculator](https://sheffield.ac.uk/funding/calculator "Student Funding Calculator") to work out what you’re eligible for.

### £2,500 per year scholarships for international students

We're offering [automatic scholarships worth up to £10,000](https://sheffield.ac.uk/international/fees-and-funding/scholarships/undergraduate/international-undergraduate-scholarship "International Undergraduate Scholarship 2026") to overseas fee-paying students starting their studies in September 2026 - no additional application required.

## Placements and study abroad

### Placement

You may have the opportunity to add an optional industrial placement year as part of your course, converting the three-year course to a four-year Degree with an Industrial Placement Year.

A placement year will help you to:

- gain an insight into possible careers
- develop a range [transferable skills](https://sheffield.ac.uk/skills/sga "The Sheffield Graduate Attributes")
- build a professional network
- get a feel for what you do and don’t like doing
- add valuable work experience to your CV
- gain experience of applying for jobs and interview practice
- apply elements of academic learning in the workplace

Our students have secured placements with a range of organisations, including CERN, Jaguar Land Rover, Sellafield, EDF Energy, the Isaac Newton Group of Telescopes, and UK Research and Innovation.

### Research experience

Develop your research skills through the Sheffield Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) scheme. This initiative gives you the opportunity to gain paid research experience, working in one of our research groups over the summer in an area of physics that you’re excited about.

### Study abroad

Spending time abroad during your degree is a great way to explore different cultures, gain a new perspective and experience a life-changing opportunity that you will never forget.

You can apply to extend this course with a year abroad, usually between the second and third year. We have over 250 University partners worldwide. Popular destinations include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, Singapore and Hong Kong.

Find out more on the [Global Opportunities website](https://sheffield.ac.uk/globalopps/outbound/study-abroad "Study abroad ").

## Visit

### University open days

We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.

[Open days: book your place](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/visit/open-days "Open days")

### Online events

Join our weekly Sheffield Live online sessions to find out more about different aspects of University life.

[Sheffield Live online events](https://sheffield.ac.uk/study/online-events "Sheffield Live online events")

### Subject tasters

If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.

[Upcoming taster sessions](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/visit/subject-tasters "Subject tasters")

### Offer holder days

If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.

### Campus tours

Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.

[Campus tour: book your place](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/visit/campus-tours "Campus tours")

## Apply

Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

[How to apply](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/apply "Applying essentials") When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:\
[www.ucas.com](https://www.ucas.com "ucas.com")

Not ready to apply yet? You can also [register your interest in this course](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/register-your-interest "Register your interest in undergraduate study at the University of Sheffield").

## Contact us

Start a conversation with us – you can get in touch by email, telephone or online chat.

[Contacts for prospective students](https://sheffield.ac.uk/contact/study "Contact us: course, application and study enquiries ")

[School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences](https://sheffield.ac.uk/mps/home)

The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.

Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read [information from the UK government](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/providing-services-to-any-country-in-the-eu-iceland-liechtenstein-norway-or-switzerland-after-eu-exit#recognition-of-professional-qualifications) and the [EU Regulated Professions Database](https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/work/professional-qualifications/regulated-professions/index_en.htm).

Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.

[Our student protection plan](https://sheffield.ac.uk/study/policies/student-protection-plan "Student protection plan")

[Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer](https://sheffield.ac.uk/study/policies/terms "Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer")

2027-2028

Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

[How to apply](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/apply "Applying essentials") When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:\
[www.ucas.com](https://www.ucas.com "ucas.com")

Not ready to apply yet? You can also [register your interest in this course](https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/register-your-interest "Register your interest in undergraduate study at the University of Sheffield").

Study the matter of our Universe and the laws that govern it with our accredited BSc Physics and Astrophysics course. Gain an understanding of key concepts across physics and astrophysics, and develop the skills needed for a successful career.

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[Course description](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1171)
[Modules](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1176)
[Learning and assessment](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1181)
[Entry requirements](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1186)
[Graduate careers](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1191)
[Department](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1196)
[University rankings](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1201)
[Student profiles](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1206)
[Fees and funding](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1211)
[Placements and study abroad](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1216)
[Extra info box](https://sheffield.ac.uk/taxonomy/term/1221)