Physics with Nuclear Astrophysics with Foundation Year

Nuclear astrophysics is one of the most ambitious fields in modern physics, concerned with the processes inside stars and stellar explosions that create the chemical elements from which all matter, including us, is made. It connects the physics of atomic nuclei to the behaviour of the most energetic objects in the universe, from supernovae and neutron stars to the Big Bang itself. Studying it alongside a full physics degree means you develop a rigorous grounding in the whole discipline while also specialising in one of its most fundamental and exciting frontiers.

At the University of Surrey this programme is designed for students who need additional preparation before beginning the main degree, with a foundation year providing the mathematical and scientific foundations needed to progress onto the full physics curriculum with confidence. Once into the degree proper, you will study classical and quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, relativity and nuclear and particle physics, developing the problem-solving and mathematical skills that define a physics education. Your specialisation in nuclear astrophysics will take you into the nuclear reactions that power stars, the physics of compact objects, and the observational and theoretical tools used to investigate them.

Surrey's partnership with the National Physical Laboratory gives students access to research connections and facilities beyond the university campus.

Physics graduates have some of the strongest career outcomes of any science discipline, precisely because the skills the degree develops, mathematical rigour, the ability to model complex systems, and comfort with abstract reasoning, are broadly applicable. Careers span research in universities and national laboratories, roles in the nuclear industry, defence, space and satellite technology, medical physics, renewable energy, finance and data science. Many graduates go on to postgraduate study or research, and a doctorate in astrophysics, nuclear physics or a related field is a common route for those drawn to academic or research careers.