Astrophysics

Astrophysics is the application of physics to the largest scales of the universe, from the stars and planets of our own solar system to distant galaxies, black holes, neutron stars, dark matter, and the cosmic microwave background that encodes the history of the Big Bang. It is a discipline that requires formidable mathematical and physical understanding, and it asks some of the most profound questions humans have ever posed: how did the universe begin, how will it end, and what is the nature of the matter and energy of which it is made?

Studying astrophysics at University College London means working within one of the UK's leading physics departments, with access to world-class researchers, observational facilities, and a culture of scientific rigour that runs from the first year through to the final dissertation. This three-year full-time programme develops your understanding of classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and relativity, before directing these tools at astronomical and cosmological problems. You will study stellar physics, galactic structure, cosmology, observational astronomy, and the computational methods used to model and interpret astrophysical phenomena.

Mathematical fluency is central to the programme: you will develop the ability to reason quantitatively about systems of extraordinary size and complexity.

Astrophysics graduates are highly numerate and analytically sophisticated, which means their skills are valued well beyond astronomy itself. Many pursue careers in technology, finance, data science, scientific computing, and engineering, where the ability to model complex systems is at a premium. Others move into science communication, science policy, and education.

Those who are drawn to research can progress to PhD programmes in astrophysics, physics, and adjacent fields, and UCL has strong research groups in areas including observational cosmology, exoplanets, and high-energy astrophysics.