Physics with Astrophysics

Physics with astrophysics brings together the rigorous study of the physical laws that govern all matter and energy with the application of those laws to some of the most dramatic objects and phenomena in the universe. Astrophysics asks how stars form and die, what powers galaxies, what the nature of dark matter and dark energy is, how the universe began and how it will end. These questions are addressed using the full toolkit of physics, including mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum theory, and general relativity, applied to astronomical observations and the theoretical models that try to explain them.

At Northumbria University in Newcastle you will study this four-year full-time programme, which includes a sandwich year, a year abroad, and a work placement. This combination of professional and international experience is exceptional for a physics degree, giving you extended real-world experience in a research, industry, or education setting alongside the academic content. The year abroad gives you exposure to astrophysics research and education in a different national environment, potentially including access to different observational facilities or theoretical research programmes.

Northumbria has a respected physics and astronomy research group and the programme benefits from connections to that research activity. The typical entry tariff is 104 points.

Physics and astrophysics graduates work in a remarkably wide range of careers. Academic and industrial research, data science, engineering, computing, the energy sector, financial services, science communication, and teaching are all common destinations. The combination of analytical rigour, mathematical competence, and problem-solving ability that physics develops is valued across many sectors.

The sandwich year and placement experience strengthen graduate employability considerably. Further study at master's or PhD level in astrophysics, physics, or a related field is the route to research careers, and opportunities exist in both academic institutions and research organisations including ESA and ESO.