**On this four-year course, as a future astrophysicist, you’ll apply physics to astronomical phenomena, explore the Universe and how it works, and gain insight into real-world physics in the workplace.** 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. You’ll gain hands-on, paid experience of working in industry in your third year. A professional placement can be a life-changing experience, honing your skills and giving you an insight into real-world, applied science. Many of our students go on to work for the same organisation after graduating. Recent placements have included Vishay, EDF, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Merck, KLA, the European Space Agency and Rolls-Royce. 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 a 30-credit Astrophysics project using real-world research data in a subject you're interested in. An ideal launchpad to become an astrophysicist, this course will also equip you for a career in a wide range of sectors – from data analysis and technology to finance and education. And, if you decide you’re interested in a research career, our flexible degree structure means you can switch to an MPhys before the end of your second year (subject to academic achievement). 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.
A Level: {'start': ['A', 'A', 'B'], 'end': ['B', 'B', 'B']} | 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. | 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 BB in Maths and Physics A-Level. | International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme | 34-31 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. | 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. | 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. | 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. | 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 Tier 4 visa, you must ensure your language qualification complies with UKVI requirements. | 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.
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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