PhD Physics & Astronomy at University of Glasgow

Programme overview

Research degrees in physics and astronomy in a department that leads the QuantIC quantum technology hub, hosts two EPSRC Centres for Doctoral Training and belongs to the Scottish Universities Physics Alliance (SUPA).

Duration: 3-4 years full-time; 6-8 years part-time | Location: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Independent research in one of the department's research groups, including astronomy and astrophysics, leading to a thesis (PhD thesis maximum 80,000 words).

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Usual standard of admission is a 2.1 honours degree with a significant component in Physics or other relevant subjects. Required documents: academic transcripts and degree certificates, CV and two references. International applicants from non-English-speaking countries: IELTS Academic 7.0 overall with no subtest below 6.5 (one-skill retake accepted; General Training not accepted); TOEFL iBT 96 overall with Reading, Listening and Speaking 23 and Writing 24 for tests taken up to 20 January 2026, or 98 overall for tests taken from 21 January 2026; PTE Academic (test centre) 70 overall with Reading 62, Listening 62, Speaking 75, Writing 68. Tests must be taken within 2 years 5 months of programme start.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27). UK annual fee for full-time study at 2026/27; the 2027/28 UK fee is to be confirmed; part-time is half the full-time fee Source

International applicants: GBP 33,708 a year (2027/28). International & EU annual fee for full-time study; part-time is half the full-time fee Source

Intake: September

Duration: 3-4 years full-time; 6-8 years part-time

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