Physics with Astrophysics
About this course
BSc/MSci in Physics with Astrophysics, a physics and physics with astrophysics degree centred on the study of astrophysical phenomena from stars and planets to galaxies and cosmology. Core topics include Mathematical Modelling. The programme utilises an observatory, planetarium, and telescope facilities to support astronomy lectures. The first year covers foundational principles through Physics 1, Mathematics 1, and Astronomy 1. The second year progresses with Physics 2, Mathematics 2A: Multivariable Calculus, Mathematics 2B: Linear Algebra, and Mathematics 2D: Mathematical Methods and Modelling. Later stages include advanced modules such as Waves & Diffraction, Quantum Mechanics, Thermal Physics, Solid State Physics, and Atomic Systems alongside compulsory subjects like stellar structure and evolution, high-energy astrophysics, and galaxies and cosmology. Students also undertake practical work including Honours Physics Laboratory, Astronomy Laboratory 1, and a final-year Physics Project.
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 10 final-year students who answered (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Teaching on my course: 90%
- Learning opportunities: 75%
- Assessment and feedback: 61%
- Academic support: 94%
- Organisation and management: 82%
- Learning resources: 94%
- Student voice: 75%
Do students stay on the course?
Based on about 35 students who started
- Continued on course: 80%
- Left higher education: 20%
What graduates do next
Based on about 11 graduates who answered, across similar courses at this university (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Working: 60%
- Working and studying: 10%
- Further study: 15%
- Unemployed: 5%
Most common jobs
- Engineering professionals: 30%
- Information Technology Professionals: 15%
- Elementary occupations: 10%
- Natural and social science professionals: 10%
- Leisure, travel and related personal service occupations: 5%
- Find their work meaningful: 70%
- Feel on track for their future plans: 60%
- Use what they learnt on the course: 40%
Where graduates work (5 years on)
Based on about 90 graduates, across similar courses at this university
- North East: 2%
- North West: 4%
- Yorkshire and the Humber: 4%
- East of England: 1%
- London: 5%
- South East: 5%
- South West: 1%
- Scotland: 72%
- Northern Ireland: 3%
Who gets in
Based on about 40 students who started
- A levels: 80%
- Access course: 20%
Accreditation & quality ratings
- Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) for the purpose of fully meeting the educational requirement for Chartered Physicist.
Modules
- Physics 1
- Mathematics 1
- Astronomy 1
- Physics 2
- Mathematics 2A: Multivariable Calculus
- Mathematics 2B: Linear Algebra
- Mathematics 2D: Mathematical Methods and Modelling
- Mathematical Methods 1
- Waves & Diffraction
- Circuits & Systems
- Quantum Mechanics
- Thermal Physics
- Electromagnetic Theory 1
- Honours Physics Laboratory
- Astronomy Laboratory 1
- Stellar Structure and Evolution
- High Energy Astrophysics
- Instruments for Optical and Radio Astronomy
- Cosmology
- Solid State Physics
- Atomic Systems
- General Physics Workshop
- Physics Project
- Stellar Structure and Evolution
- High Energy Astrophysics
- Instruments for Optical and Radio Astronomy
- Cosmology
- galaxies and cosmology
- instruments for optical and radio telescopes
- exploring planetary systems
- General Relativity and Gravitation
- Plasma Theory and Diagnostics
Questions about this course
How much do graduates of Physics with Astrophysics at University of Glasgow earn?
The median salary is £30,000 after 15 months, £30,000 after 3 years, £37,000 after 5 years. After five years the middle half of graduates earn between £29,500 and £44,000. The £37,000 median after five years is £1,500 less than the UK median for Physics.
What do graduates of Physics with Astrophysics 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 Physics with Astrophysics at University of Glasgow?
90% of final-year students were positive about the teaching in the National Student Survey 2025-26.
What grades do I need for Physics with Astrophysics at University of Glasgow?
The typical offer is AAB at A level. The average entrant had 195 UCAS points.
Is Physics with Astrophysics at University of Glasgow accredited?
Yes. Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) for the purpose of fully meeting the educational requirement for Chartered Physicist.
Does Physics with Astrophysics at University of Glasgow include a placement year or year abroad?
The course has an optional year abroad.
How many students continue on Physics with Astrophysics at University of Glasgow?
80% of students continued into their second year, and 20% left higher education.