Undergraduate

Physics with Astrophysics

Astrophysics student in a laboratory in front of a large telescope
Physics student experiments with a brightly coloured lightbulb
Dust clouds in space
Two students examine the contents of a test tube in a laboratory

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Physics degrees are highly valued by employers. Our graduates go on to rewarding careers across a diverse range of fields – from medical physics to R&D to laser systems engineering and more.
Develop valuable skills in data science, programming, problem solving, communication and teamwork.
You’ll be taught by our world-leading academics exploring the underlying laws that govern the universe.
Build investigative skills and carry out research, tackling as yet unanswered questions.
Learn in our physics lab as part of a vibrant community. Physics at Hull has one of the most diverse student populations in the country.
Astrophysics student in a laboratory in front of a large telescope
Physics student experiments with a brightly coloured lightbulb
Dust clouds in space
Two students examine the contents of a test tube in a laboratory
Physics Teaching Laboratory

Code

Duration

Mode

  • Standard course
  • Integrated masters
  • September 2024

Typical offer

What does this mean?

Delve into the make-up of the universe. Explore physics on a grand scale. And understand the forces that light stars and form galaxies.

Here, you’ll help chip away at the boundaries of knowledge, conducting real research and tackling as yet unanswered questions.

You’ll gain a thorough understanding of fundamental physics and maths concepts. And develop investigative skills to apply these concepts in new areas of science, technology and enterprise.

Highly valued by employers, a physics degree leads to varied and rewarding careers from research and development to accountancy and management.

  • 1st in the UK

    for Teaching Satisfaction 1

  • Top 10 in the UK

    for Student Satisfaction 2

  • Institute of Physics

    accredited

  • Home to Viper

    One of the UK's most powerful supercomputers

  • Diverse

    student population

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Course overview
Module options

About this course

Study with experts exploring topics from planets in our solar system to distant galaxies and abstract phenomena. And gain the theoretical and practical tools to reveal and understand the underlying laws that govern the universe – from the smallest sub-atomic particle to the grand scale of cosmology.

You’ll develop the transferable data science skills that employers value – including in Python, one of the fastest-growing programming languages. And pick up sought-after skills in everything from communication and team work to problem solving, alongside programming, maths and research experience.

Nurtured by world-leading academics, you’ll have weekly tutorials in your first two years, plus one-to-one feedback sessions with your tutor throughout your degree.

We run a packed calendar of over 100 events every year, spanning widening participation, diversity and curriculum-enhancing activities. We’re part of a unique employability network, the White Rose Industrial Physics Alliance, which runs careers events featuring potential future employers. And our award-winning Changing Face of Physics Campaign means that Physics at Hull has one of the most diverse student populations in the country.

Scheduled study hours and how you’re assessed

Throughout your degree, you’re expected to study for 1,200 hours per year. That’s based on 200 hours per 20 credit module. And it includes scheduled hours, time spent on placement and independent study. How this time is divided across the year varies and depends on the module you are studying.

How you'll be assessed depends on the course you study, and the modules you choose. You may be assessed through a mix of examinations, coursework, presentations and group projects.

Choose your modules

Each year, you’ll study modules worth a certain number of credits, and you need 120 credits per year. Most modules are 20 credits – so you’ll study six modules each year. Some longer modules, such as a dissertation, are worth more. In these cases, you’ll study fewer modules - but the number of credits will always add up to 120. Some modules are compulsory, some are optional, so you can build a course that’s right for you.

Introduction to Experimental Skills and Mathematics for Physics

This module introduces the scientific instruments and experimental skills that you'll need to study physics. You'll develop your maths abilities so that you can solve physics problems.

Core•20 credits

Experimental Physics and Mathematics 1

This module further develops your practical and maths skills. You'll explore aspects of practical physics through experiments in teams.

Core•20 credits

The Classical World

This module delivers essential physics covering two main themes: classical mechanics and optics. You'll study Newton's Laws and extend them to simple fluid dynamics.

Compulsory•20 credits

Gravitation and Astronomy

On this module you'll study Kepler's Laws; observational astronomy and telescopes; stellar and galaxy evolution; and introductory cosmology.

Compulsory•20 credits

Electricity and Magnetism with Computation

Discover electrostatics and magnetostatics and how to apply your knowledge of them. You'll also learn the essentials of Python, which is one of the most popular programming languages.

Compulsory•20 credits

From the Quantum World to the Macro World – an Introduction to Quantum Physics and the Properties of Matter

Explore how quantum physics can explain the behaviour of atoms – and how that behaviour can in turn explain the macroscopic properties of the matter around us.

Compulsory•20 credits
6 Modules

Experimental Physics and Mathematics 2

In lab classes, you'll develop your technique by creating experiments to solve specific problems. And in mathematics, you'll learn about differential equations and Fourier series. 

Core•20 credits

Experimental Physics and Mathematics 3

Develop your own scientific investigations and do scientific research by designing experiments to answer a question that you set. You'll also learn about vector calculus.

Core•20 credits

Thermodynamics, Statistical Physics and Special Relativity

This module analyses the equilibrium behaviour of many-body systems from a macroscopic point of view (thermodynamics) and from a microscopic point of view (statistical physics). 

Compulsory•20 credits

Intermediate Quantum Mechanics with Advanced Computation

This course continues your exploration of quantum-based concepts. You'll use Schrödinger’s equation and its solutions in different situations and examine angular momentum and spin. 

Compulsory•20 credits

The Physics of Waves and Solid State

Study the essentials of wave phenomena leading up to electromagnetic waves and Maxwell's equations. You'll also learn about the electronic properties of solids.

Compulsory•20 credits

Stellar Structure and Evolution

Study the physical principles behind the structure and evolution of main sequence stars, how they transmute the elements in their cores and how this relates to the history of the Universe. 

Compulsory•20 credits
6 Modules

BSc Project

Plan, research, conduct and report a scientific investigation, either individually or in a group. This might include programming, data acquisition and analysis, and a study of related literature. 

Core•20 credits

Group Problem Solving

You'll work in groups to solve both experimental and theoretical problems - applying new concepts to unfamiliar situations to develop your research and modelling skills.

Compulsory•20 credits

Advanced Quantum and Plasma Physics

What are the key theories and experiments of nuclear and particle physics? How can we apply quantum mechanics to solve problems in nuclear and particle physics? What is a Hilbert space?

Compulsory•20 credits

Numerical Modelling and Simulation with Research Project Planning

In this module, you further develop your Python programming skills. You’ll learn about numerical techniques to solve complex problems in physics and astrophysics. In parallel, you will prepare your final year project guided by your supervisor.

Compulsory•20 credits

Matter at Extremes

Discover basic concepts of magnetism and superconductivity and outline their role in key applications. You’ll also learn to describe and define the main characteristics of a plasma.

Compulsory•20 credits

Galactic and Extra-Galactic Astronomy

Develop your understanding of the formation and evolution of galaxies as well as basic cosmology.

Compulsory•20 credits
6 Modules

Group Problem Solving

You'll work in groups to solve both experimental and theoretical problems - applying new concepts to unfamiliar situations to develop your research and modelling skills.

Compulsory•20 credits

Advanced Quantum and Plasma Physics

What are the key theories and experiments of nuclear and particle physics? How can we apply quantum mechanics to solve problems in nuclear and particle physics? What is a Hilbert space?

Compulsory•20 credits

Matter at Extremes

Discover basic concepts of magnetism and superconductivity and outline their role in key applications. You’ll also learn to describe and define the main characteristics of a plasma.

Compulsory•20 credits

Experimental Research Skills and Research Project Planning

Develop your ability and confidence in experimental methods and identify the usefulness and limitations of specialist measurement and experimental technology. You'll gain the skills to access and analyse information independently in preparation for undertaking your final stage project.

Compulsory•20 credits

Numerical Modelling and Simulation with Research Project Planning

In this module, you further develop your Python programming skills. You’ll learn about numerical techniques to solve complex problems in physics and astrophysics. In parallel, you will prepare your final year project guided by your supervisor.

Compulsory•20 credits

Galactic and Extra-Galactic Astronomy

Develop your understanding of the formation and evolution of galaxies as well as basic cosmology.

Compulsory•20 credits
6 Modules

MPhys Project

Plan, research, execute and report a scientific investigation. You'll be assigned either an individual experiment or theoretical project. 

Core•40 credits

Capstone Research Topics in Astronomy

​This module will deliver cutting-edge research topics across astronomy and astrophysics. You'll also be trained in the use of modern astrophysics databases.

Compulsory•20 credits

Lasers and their Applications

Study the physics of laser action and the principles of important laser types. You'll also explore the applications of lasers by considering the interaction of laser light with matter.

Optional•20 credits

Self-Assembly and Nanoelectronics

How physics is applied on the nanoscale to achieve functionality in materials and devices including in nanoelectronics and self-assembled structured fluids.

Optional•20 credits

General Relativity and Further Quantum Mechanics

The physics of the very large and the very small. You’ll learn Einstein’s theory of general relativity and explore topics in quantum mechanics.

Optional•20 credits

Nanofabrication and Nanophotonics

Here we cover developments in nanophotonic materials and devices, including advanced techniques in the nanofabrication and characterization of devices.

Optional•20 credits

Topics in Data Science

Cover a selection of topics in data science, which lies at the interface of applied mathematics, probability and statistics, physics and computer science.

Optional•20 credits
7 Modules

This course is accredited by

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Entry requirements

What do I need?

When it comes to applying to university, you'll need a certain number of UCAS points. Different qualifications and grades are worth a different amount of points. For this course, you'll need…

Use UCAS's calculator to work out your estimated points

We consider experience and qualifications from the UK and worldwide which may not exactly match the combinations above.

But it's not just about the grades - we'll look at your whole application. We want to know what makes you tick, and about your previous experience, so make sure that you complete your personal statement.

Have questions? Our admissions team will be happy to help.

What do I need?

If you require a student visa to study or if your first language is not English you will be required to provide acceptable evidence of your English language proficiency level.

See other English language proficiency qualifications accepted by the University of Hull.

If your English currently does not reach the University’s required standard for this programme, you may be interested in one of our English language courses.

Visit your country page to find out more about our entry requirements.

Fees & funding

How much is it?

Additional costs you may have to pay

Your tuition fees will cover most costs associated with your programme. There are some extra costs that you might have to pay, or choose to pay, depending on your programme of study and the decisions you make:

  • Books (you can borrow books on your reading lists from the library, but you may buy your own)
  • Optional field trips
  • Study abroad (incl. travel costs, accommodation, visas, immunisation)
  • Placement costs (incl. travel costs and accommodation)
  • Student visas (international students)
  • Laptop (you’ll have access to laptops and PC’s on campus, but you may want your own)
  • Printing and photocopying
  • Professional-body membership
  • Graduation (gown hire and photography)

Remember, you’ll still need to take into account your living costs. This could include accommodation, travel, food and more.

How do I pay for it?

How much is it?

Additional costs you may have to pay

Your tuition fees will cover most costs associated with your programme. There are some extra costs that you might have to pay, or choose to pay, depending on your programme of study and the decisions you make:

  • Books (you can borrow books on your reading lists from the library, but you may buy your own)
  • Optional field trips
  • Study abroad (incl. travel costs, accommodation, visas, immunisation)
  • Placement costs (incl. travel costs and accommodation)
  • Student visas (international students)
  • Laptop (you’ll have access to laptops and PC’s on campus, but you may want your own)
  • Printing and photocopying
  • Professional-body membership
  • Graduation (gown hire and photography)

Remember, you’ll still need to take into account your living costs. This could include accommodation, travel, food and more.

How do I pay for it?

Our academics

From the Big Bang to black holes, quantum mechanics to the theory of everything. Our research is at the frontier of physics.

You’ll study under world-leading academics whose research is helping make sense of the world around us – and pursuing explanations for the wonders of the universe.

See more academics for this subject
Professor Brad Gibson
Featured academic

Prof Brad Gibson

A world-renowned expert at using supercomputers to model the distribution of chemical elements throughout the universe. With the Hubble Space Telescope, Brad determined the expansion rate of the universe – winning the Gruber Prize in Cosmology.
Dr Elke Roediger
Featured academic

Dr Elke Roediger

Elke’s research includes investigating clusters of galaxies, galaxy evolution and hydrodynamics. She has a range of international research experience and previous roles include Visiting Scientist at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.

Take a look at our facilities

Supercomputing

You’ll have access to Viper – the highest-spec computer at any university in the North of England.

Physics Laboratory

Gain the tools you need for a broad understanding of modern physics in our physics lab.

Brynmor Jones Library

Our seven-storey library is a superb learning space. As well as over a million books, there’s a variety of study areas, and one amazing view.

Open-access PCs

You’ll find over 400 open-access PCs in our library, as well as over 70 laptops to borrow. There’s also learning rooms with big-screen PCs and private study rooms - plus interactive projector tables.

See more in our virtual tour
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Physics Teaching Laboratory
Brynmor Jones Library Observation Deck
Brynmor Jones Library Reading Room
George Grey Centre Physics lab

Future prospects

A degree in Physics and Astrophysics opens the doors to a whole range of future prospects in fields like data science, laser systems engineering, telecommunications, IT and computing, medical physics and nuclear engineering.

Our graduates have secured roles at companies including Rolls-Royce, Thales, QinetiQ, NPL, Reckitt and Clyde Bergemann. Others have gone onto graduate training schemes with the National Grid and the NHS.

This degree meets the educational requirements towards a sought-after qualification as a Chartered Physicist, which opens even more doors to future employment and research opportunities – such as staying on an extra year to gain a Masters.

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Your next steps

Like what you’ve seen? Then it’s time to apply.

The standard way to apply for this course is through UCAS. This will give you the chance to showcase your skill, qualities and passion for the subject, as well as providing your academic qualifications.

How to apply

Not ready to apply?

Visit our next Open Day, and see all that Hull has to offer for yourself. Talk to our lecturers about your subject, find out what university is really like from our current students, and take a tour of our beautiful campus and amazing facilities.

Book your place now

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  1. The Guardian University Rankings 2024.
  2. (9th) The Complete University Guide 2024.

 

All modules presented on this course page are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.

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