Astrophysicists look to the skies to discover more about the nature of our Universe. From the nuclear reactions that power our sun to the mysteries of dark matter, you'll study the great challenges of cosmology in topics aligned with our active research. To explore the cosmos you'll need grounding in many disciplines of physics, from optics to electromagnetism, quantum physics to classical mechanics. You'll learn key skills for analysing real-life problems, write scientific reports to industry standards, communicate complex concepts, and solve mind-bending astronomical puzzles. Spending a year on a paid industrial placement gives you the chance to gain real-world experience, enhancing your degree and your CV.
A Level: AAA | Essential Subjects: A Levels in Physics and Mathematics are essential. Information: Applicants taking Science A Levels that include a practical component will be required to pass. | Scottish Higher | Please use the course link below for more details on Scottish entry requirements. | Access to HE Diploma: 39 UCAS points | Access to HE Diploma: 6 UCAS points | Access to HE Diploma | We will consider the Access to Higher Education Diploma. The syllabus must contain a significant portion of Mathematics and Physics that is considered equivalent to A Level standard. Applications will be considered on an individual basis - please contact the Department before you apply. | Scottish Advanced Higher | Please use the course link below for more details on Scottish entry requirements. | Extended Project: C | If you achieve C or higher in your EPQ, you may be eligible for an alternative offer up to one A Level grade (or equivalent) below our typical offer. | International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme: 36 UCAS points | With 5 in Higher Level Physics plus either 5 in Higher Level Mathematics (either Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretations) or 6 in Standard Level Mathematics Analysis and Approaches. | WJEC Level 3 Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales: A | We will consider this qualification alongside or in combination with A Levels or other qualifications, as equivalent to one A Level. | Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate (first teaching from September 2016): D | Plus AA in A Level Mathematics and Physics. | Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma (first teaching from September 2016): DM | Plus AA in A Level Mathematics and Physics. | OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate: D | Plus AA in A Level Mathematics and Physics. | OCR Cambridge Technical Diploma: DM | Plus AA in A Level Mathematics and Physics.
Please note these fees are for 2026 entry. Fees for 2027 entry are yet to be confirmed and will be updated as soon as possible. For additional information please see our web pages at: https://www.york.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/fees-funding/ — UG Standard Band 4 2027 entry
Comparing courses? Match them against your grades.
Open the course explorer