BSc (Hons) Astrophysics at Swansea University

Programme overview

BSc (Hons) Astrophysics combines analytical reasoning, mathematical problem-solving and scientific curiosity to explore how the universe works, from the quantum world to the largest cosmic structures. Students gain hands-on experience with telescopes and detectors and real astronomical data, with the chance to carry out advanced research projects supervised by internationally recognised academics. Collaborations with major facilities including CERN support projects, internships and research experience.

Faculty: School of Biosciences, Geography and Physics | Department: Physics | Duration: 3 years full-time (4 years with a foundation year, year abroad or year in industry) | Intake: September | Location: Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 compulsory modules are Classical Mechanics, Astronomy, Cosmology and Special Relativity, Mathematics for Physicists I and II and Quantum Mechanics I. Year 2 includes Electromagnetism, Thermal and Statistical Physics, Quantum Mechanics II and Stellar Astrophysics: Theory and Observation; Year 3 includes Nuclear and Particle Physics, Condensed Matter Physics, Gravity and Cosmology, Extragalactic Astronomy and Galactic Dynamics and an Astronomy/Astrophysics Project.

Career pathways

Physics graduates progress into roles as research physicists, data scientists, AI and software engineers, demand forecasters, patent examiners and quantitative finance analysts, across government research, aerospace, defence, energy, nuclear, engineering, education and space exploration; a significant percentage go on to postgraduate study and research.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A level typical offer AAB-BBC to include grade B in A level Maths. BTEC DDD plus grade B in A level Maths. UK Access and T Levels: not accepted (listed N/A). Mixed qualifications: 120 UCAS tariff points to include 40 tariff points in Maths. International Baccalaureate: 32 including a score of 5 at Higher Level Maths and Physics. Foundation-year route (UCAS F51F): A level CDD to include A level Maths and Physics, BTEC MMM with grade C in A level Maths, UK Access Science 27 Merits including Merit in all Maths and Physics modules, 80 UCAS tariff points including A level Maths and Physics, IB 28 including 6 at Standard Level Maths and 7 at Standard Level Physics. Extended Project Qualification: an applicant with a predicted grade B or above receives an offer with a one-grade reduction (for example AAB becomes ABB plus EPQ B).

Domestic applicants: GBP 9,790 a year (2026/27). Full-time undergraduate tuition fee for Welsh, English and other UK students. International fee is shown on the course page. Source

International applicants: GBP 25,200 a year (2026/27). First-year tuition for full-time entry; international fees increase by 3% for each subsequent year of study. Source

Intake: September

Duration: 3 years full-time (4 years with a foundation year, year abroad or year in industry)

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