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One of the Group's teaching telescopes.

The Undergraduate Astrophysics programme at Leeds

In these days it is imperative to get a solid degree to pursue a successful career. A Physics degree is one of those well regarded University degrees by prospective employers. Apart from a good grounding in physics, mathematics and computer literacy, it is especially their analytical minds and problem solving skills that set Leeds' students apart.

It can only been seen as a big bonus to learn about the Universe and everything on the fly as well - this is what we provide with our BSc and MPhys programmes in "Physics and Astrophysics". Students are taught by a number of internationally recognized researchers in the field.

Leeds' approach in teaching is to concentrate on the physical understanding of concepts rather than wading through astronomical jargon. The Physics with Astrophysics programmes cover all the compulsory physics, mathematics and computing lecture modules that are taught to Leeds' Physics undergraduates. The Astrophysics element contributes 20% in the first year, increasing to about 50% in the final year. Especially in the advanced stages of the course, there is the possibility to broaden your interests in, for example, theoretical physics, nanophysics, quantum information or biophysics.

As well as lectures, we explore problems in small groups and use internet based resources. The laboratory modules are tuned to fit in a modern degree and employ sophisticated data like those from the Hubble Space Telescope already at an early stage, while Leeds students get hands-on observing experience using the School telescopes. All this culminates in a final year research project, carried out with a member of staff, which takes our students to the edge of current knowledge in astrophysics.

The Physics with Astrophysics degree at Leeds has proven to be the start of a fruitful career of our graduates, who went on to work in all branches of industry, IT, finance, teaching and related professions. Over the past years 70% of our MPhys graduates went on to do a PhD research project at many different institutions.

If you want to know more about studying at the School of Physics and Astronomy in Leeds, check out the following links:

Or contact the admissions tutor directly: