Astronomy
About this course
BSc/MSci in Astronomy, a physical sciences degree centred on the study of the universe, astronomical bodies and astrophysical phenomena. Core topics include Data Analysis, Statistics and Mathematical Modelling. Students can undertake an optional year abroad during their studies. The first year introduces foundational concepts through Astronomy 1 and Mathematics 1. The second year builds mathematical proficiency via Astronomy 2, Mathematics 2A: Multivariable Calculus, Mathematics 2B: Linear Algebra and Mathematics 2D: Mathematical Methods and Modelling. The third year covers core areas including Astronomy Skills 1, Stellar Structure and Evolution, High Energy Astrophysics, Galaxies, Heliophysics and Stellar Atmospheres, Instruments for Optical and Radio Astronomy, Cosmology, Astronomical Data Analysis and Exploring Planetary Systems. Later years advance through specialist topics such as Astronomy Skills 2, Plasma Theory and Diagnostics, Statistical Astronomy, General Relativity and Gravitation, and Pulsars and Supernovae. The final stage culminates in the Astronomy Project for 4M Students.
Written by AI from the university's course page and module list. It can get details wrong, so check the official course page before you rely on it.
Entry requirements
A level: AAB or BBB (Additional requirements: A-level Mathematics and Physics.) IB: 34 (6,5,5) (Additional requirements: HL Mathematics (Analysis & Approaches) and Physics.) Scottish Higher: BBBB is the minimum requirement from S5 to be reviewed for an S6 offer Offers are not guaranteed to applicants who meet the minimum from S5 Typically offers will be made at AAAAA by end of S6. B at Advanced Higher is equivalent to A at Higher Additional requirements: Higher Mathematics and Physics at AA. (AB may be considered). Scottish Higher (widening access): MD20 : BBBB (also other target groups*) MD40 : AABB* Additional requirements: Higher Mathematics and Physics. Successful completion of Top-Up or one of our Summer Schools.
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What students say
Based on about 46 final-year students who answered, across similar courses at this university
- Teaching on my course: 91%
- Learning opportunities: 81%
- Assessment and feedback: 83%
- Academic support: 85%
- Organisation and management: 79%
- Learning resources: 88%
- Student voice: 81%
Do students stay on the course?
Based on about 160 students who started, across similar courses at this university
- Continued on course: 86%
- Left higher education: 14%
What graduates do next
Based on about 18 graduates who answered, across similar courses at this university (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Working: 55%
- Working and studying: 20%
- Further study: 10%
- Unemployed: 5%
Most common jobs
- Engineering professionals: 25%
- Teaching Professionals: 15%
- Elementary occupations: 10%
- Sales occupations: 10%
- Leisure, travel and related personal service occupations: 5%
- Find their work meaningful: 65%
- Feel on track for their future plans: 75%
- Use what they learnt on the course: 45%
Where graduates work (5 years on)
Based on about 90 graduates, across similar courses at this university
- North East: 2%
- North West: 1%
- Yorkshire and the Humber: 1%
- West Midlands: 1%
- East of England: 2%
- London: 14%
- South East: 1%
- South West: 2%
- Scotland: 75%
- Northern Ireland: 1%
Who gets in
Based on about 225 students who started, across similar courses at this university
- A levels: 92%
- Baccalaureate: 2%
- Access course: 5%
- Other qualifications: 2%
Modules
- Astronomy 1
- Mathematics 1
- Astronomy 2
- Mathematics 2A: Multivariable Calculus
- Mathematics 2B: Linear Algebra
- Mathematics 2D: Mathematical Methods and Modelling
- Astronomy Skills 1
- Stellar Structure and Evolution
- High Energy Astrophysics
- Galaxies
- Heliophysics and Stellar Atmospheres
- Instruments for Optical and Radio Astronomy
- Cosmology
- Astronomical Data Analysis
- Exploring Planetary Systems
- Astronomy Skills 2
- Astronomy Project for 4M Students
- Plasma Theory and Diagnostics
- Statistical Astronomy
- General Relativity and Gravitation
- Pulsars and Supernovae
- Plasma Theory and Diagnostics
- Statistical Astronomy
- General Relativity and Gravitation
- Pulsars and Supernovae
Questions about this course
How much do graduates of Astronomy at University of Glasgow earn?
The median salary is £30,000 after 15 months, £30,500 after 3 years, £38,000 after 5 years. After five years the middle half of graduates earn between £30,000 and £50,000. The £38,000 median after five years is £3,500 more than the UK median for Astronomy.
What do graduates of Astronomy at University of Glasgow do next?
85% were in work or further study 15 months after finishing (Graduate Outcomes 2023-24).
Are students happy with the teaching on Astronomy at University of Glasgow?
91% of final-year students were positive about the teaching in the National Student Survey 2025-26.
What grades do I need for Astronomy at University of Glasgow?
The typical offer is AAB at A level. The average entrant had 202 UCAS points.
Does Astronomy at University of Glasgow include a placement year or year abroad?
The course has an optional year abroad.
How many students continue on Astronomy at University of Glasgow?
86% of students continued into their second year, and 14% left higher education.