MPhys Astrophysics
About this course
MPhys (Honours) in Astrophysics, a physics with astrophysics degree centred on the scientific study of the universe from solar systems to galaxy clusters. Core topics include Data Analysis, Statistics, Mathematical Modelling, and Laboratory Techniques. The programme is accredited by the Institute of Physics. The first year covers the foundations through Astronomy and Astrophysics 1, Mathematics, Physics 1A, and Physics 1B. The second year builds on this with Astronomy and Astrophysics 2, Astrophysics 2, Linear Mathematics, and Multivariate Calculus. Subsequent study includes atomic, nuclear, and particle physics, computational astrophysics, electromagnetism, and extragalactic astronomy. Optional modules and advanced topics allow students to focus on areas such as Advanced Data Analysis, General Relativity, Magnetofluids and Space Plasmas, and Monte Carlo Radiation Transport Techniques.
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: AAA, including A in both: Mathematics and Physics. IB: 38 (HL 6,6,6), including HL6 in both Mathematics and Physics.
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What students say
Based on about 7 final-year students who answered (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Teaching on my course: 100%
- Learning opportunities: 90%
- Assessment and feedback: 93%
- Academic support: 100%
- Organisation and management: 100%
- Learning resources: 89%
- Student voice: 89%
Do students stay on the course?
Based on about 15 students who started (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Continued on course: 100%
What graduates do next
Based on about 8 graduates who answered (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Working: 60%
- Unemployed: 20%
Most common jobs
- Information Technology Professionals: 30%
- Finance Professionals: 15%
- Science, engineering and technology associate professionals: 10%
- Administrative occupations: 5%
- Skilled trades occupations: 5%
- Find their work meaningful: 90%
- Feel on track for their future plans: 70%
- Use what they learnt on the course: 55%
Where graduates work (5 years on)
Based on about 130 graduates, across similar courses at this university
- North East: 5%
- North West: 11%
- Yorkshire and the Humber: 5%
- East Midlands: 4%
- West Midlands: 2%
- East of England: 4%
- London: 13%
- South East: 11%
- South West: 5%
- Wales: 2%
- Scotland: 37%
- Northern Ireland: 1%
Who gets in
Based on about 15 students who started (a small group: a rough guide only)
- A levels: 80%
- Baccalaureate: 20%
Accreditation & quality ratings
- Recognised by the Institute of Physics (IOP) for the purpose of eligibility for Associate Membership.
Modules
- atomic, nuclear, and particle physics
- computational astrophysics
- electromagnetism
- extragalactic astronomy
- observational astrophysics
- the physics of nebulae and stars
- quantum mechanics
- thermal and statistical physics
- Advanced Data Analysis
- Contemporary Astrophysics
- General Relativity
- Magnetofluids and Space Plasmas
- Monte Carlo Radiation Transport Techniques
- Astronomy and Astrophysics 1
- Mathematics
- Physics 1A
- Physics 1B
- Astronomy and Astrophysics 2
- Astrophysics 2
- Linear Mathematics
- Multivariate Calculus
- Physics 2A
- Physics 2B
Questions about this course
How much do graduates of MPhys Astrophysics at University of St Andrews earn?
The median salary is £33,500 after 15 months, £32,000 after 3 years, £39,500 after 5 years. After five years the middle half of graduates earn between £31,000 and £54,500. The £39,500 median after five years is £5,000 more than the UK median for Astronomy.
What do graduates of MPhys Astrophysics at University of St Andrews do next?
60% were in work or further study 15 months after finishing (Graduate Outcomes 2023-24).
Are students happy with the teaching on MPhys Astrophysics at University of St Andrews?
100% of final-year students were positive about the teaching in the National Student Survey 2025-26.
What grades do I need for MPhys Astrophysics at University of St Andrews?
The typical offer is AAA at A level. The average entrant had 226 UCAS points.
Is MPhys Astrophysics at University of St Andrews accredited?
Yes. Recognised by the Institute of Physics (IOP) for the purpose of eligibility for Associate Membership.
Does MPhys Astrophysics at University of St Andrews include a placement year or year abroad?
The course has an optional year abroad.
How many students continue on MPhys Astrophysics at University of St Andrews?
100% of students continued into their second year, and 0% left higher education.