Physics and Astronomy

Physics and astronomy together represent one of the most ambitious intellectual endeavours available at undergraduate level: the attempt to understand the fundamental laws governing matter, energy, space, and time, and to apply them to phenomena ranging from subatomic particles to the large-scale structure of the universe. Physics provides the theoretical and mathematical toolkit; astronomy provides some of the most awe-inspiring applications of that toolkit, from the dynamics of star formation to the nature of dark matter and the behaviour of black holes.

Durham University's four-year full-time Physics and Astronomy programme is taught within a physics department of international standing. The four-year MPhys-level programme gives you the depth to engage with research-level topics in both disciplines, moving from classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, and thermodynamics in the early years through to observational astronomy, astrophysics, cosmology, and specialised topics in theoretical physics as you advance. You will develop strong mathematical skills, since much of physics is expressed in the language of mathematics, and you will learn to work with physical data, to construct and test models, and to communicate complex ideas clearly.

Durham's Observatory and connections to major international observatories and particle physics facilities mean you will have access to genuine research environments and data.

A typical entry tariff of 216 points reflects the highly competitive nature of admission to this programme and the high level of prior attainment in mathematics and physics required.

Graduates from physics and astronomy programmes are among the most versatile in science, with strong demand across sectors including technology, finance, computing, data science, defence, energy, and scientific research. Many go on to postgraduate study and research in physics, astrophysics, cosmology, or data-intensive fields. The analytical and quantitative skills developed are recognised and valued by employers far beyond academia.