**As a future astrophysicist, you’ll apply the principles of physics to astronomical phenomena, exploring the Universe and investigating how it works in this four-year course with a focus on research.** We’re home to one of the largest astronomy groups in the UK and are proud to have led many new discoveries - from the detection of gravitational waves to the first images of black holes. This same team of academics will shape your learning, giving you an insight into the theoretical physics and mathematical concepts describing space, time, energy and matter, and how to apply these to the cosmos. Gain core physics and mathematics skills combined with an understanding of observational astronomy and deep dive into the theory of astrophysics. As well as the confidence to design and conduct your own lab experiments, you'll develop your programming skills. In your final year, you'll align with one of our research groups and carry out an Astrophysics project using real-world research data in a subject you're interested in. An ideal launchpad to become an astrophysicist and achieve your potential as a researcher, this course will also equip you for a career in a wide range of sectors – from data analysis and technology to finance and education. Join us and you'll not only develop the highly sought-after problem-solving skills valued by a wide range of employers but become part of a welcoming, inclusive physics and astronomy community with a dynamic student society. **Distinctive features** **Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP)**\ Our course meets the high-quality standards in education set out by the IOP. **Top 10**\ Ranked 8th in the UK for physics (The Guardian University Guide 2025). **95% employment**\ 95% of our graduates are employed, in further study, or doing other activities such as travelling, 15 months after the end of their course (Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2021/22). **Student satisfaction**\ 1st for physics in the Russell Group for teaching on my course, learning opportunities, academic support, and assessment and feedback (National Student Survey (NSS) 2024). **Research-led teaching**\ We're home to one of the largest UK communities of astronomers and condensed matter physicists. **Research focus**\ Your final year will focus on research and include a major project with one of our leading research groups.
A Level: {'start': ['A', 'A', 'A', None], 'end': ['A', 'B', 'B', None]} | To include grade B in Maths and Physics. Applicants taking Maths without Physics will also be considered normally subject to achieving a grade A in Maths. You will need to pass the science practical element of the A-level if this is part of your programme of study. | T Level | Acceptance of T Levels for this programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Academic School. Consideration will be given to the T Level grade/subject and grades/subjects achieved at GCSE/Level 2. | GCSE/National 4/National 5 You must have or be working towards: - English language or Welsh language at GCSE grade C/4 or an equivalent (such as A-levels). If you require a Student visa, you must ensure your language qualification complies with UKVI requirements. | Extended Project: A | For applicants taking the EPQ qualification, an A in the EPQ can be recognised to lower the entry requirements by a single grade. For example, an AAB offer would be “AAB from 3 A-levels or ABB from 3 A-levels and a grade A in the EPQ”. Please note that any subject specific requirements must be met. | International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme | 36-32 overall or 666- 665 in 3 HL subjects. To include grade 5 in HL Maths and HL Physics. Applicants taking HL Maths without HL Physics will also be considered normally subject to achieving a grade 6 in HL Maths. | WJEC Level 3 Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales | The Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales will be accepted in lieu of one A level at the A level grades specified, excluding any subject specific requirements. | Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) | DD-DM in a BTEC Diploma in science and engineering subjects and grade A in Maths A-Level or D in any BTEC subject and grades AA-AB in Maths and Physics A-Level. | Welsh Baccalaureate - Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (first teaching September 2015) | The Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate will be accepted in place of one A-level at the A-level grades specified, excluding any subject specific requirements.
Fees stated are for the 2026/7 academic year. Tuition fees cover all reasonable costs required to complete the stated programme. Optional study trips, placements, or equipment are at your own cost. Tuition fees exclude living costs such as accommodation, subsistence and travel. UK and Islands: The University may increase fees as permitted by law or Welsh Government policy. We will notify you of changes by the end of June in the preceding academic year. EU, EEA, and Switzerland: Unless eligible for UK fee status, fees will align with international fees. Check eligibility at: https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/student-advice/fees/full-list-of-categories-for-he-in-wales/ International: Fees are fixed for the programme duration, excluding Medicine and Dentistry programmes. During the pre-clinical element of Medicine and Dentistry programmes the fee rate will be fixed, after which the clinical fee rate is charged. Further details: http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/international/funding-and-fees — UG BLS and PSE (2026/7)
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