Lectures cover such diverse topics as the origin of the universe, dark matter, dark energy, galaxies, radiation mechanisms in astrophysics, the life and death of stars, black holes, extrasolar planets, the solar system, space and solar plasma astrophysics, and research methods.Ê
Training in research methods, substantial independent project work and access to the expertise and culture of the department are excellent preparation for PhD study. The knowledge and skills you will gain are however equally useful in boosting future prospects or current performance in another career path (e.g. teaching).
The part-time option and flexible teaching structure make this programme especially suitable if you are looking to peruse your interest in the subject alongside other commitments. Some students each year study for an MSc as a significant part of a career break/career change or for personal interest.Ê
The School of Physics and Astronomy also offers a 9 monthÊPostgraduate Certificate in Astronomy and AstrophysicsÊand an Astrophysics pathway to the longerÊEuromaster's MSc.
Outcomes
On successful completion of the MSc in Astrophysics you will graduate with:
- A grounding in fundamental topics in Astrophysics
- An appreciation of the latest developments in Astrophysics research across the full breadth of QMUL research areas
- Research skills and specialist knowledge, developed through substantial research project work
- Exposure to academic expertise and culture
Key Features
- Wide variety of topics taught, offering one of the broadest ranges of higher levelÊastrophysics modulesÊin the UK
- Broad range of researchÊproject optionsÊand academic expertise
- Specialist training in research methods for astrophysicists
- Unique flexible teaching structure
- Access to academic journals as well asÊseminarsÊat QMUL and more widely around London
- Membership of the Royal Astronomical Society (RAS) for QMUL students; take advantage of RAS meetings and library
- Long history of preparing students for careers in research (since 1972). Several alumni hold academic posts at universities in the UK and overseas, including the University of Cambridge.ÊÊÊÊ
- Find inspiration in a subject you love
Research areas
The Astronomy Unit at QMUL carries out a great variety of specialst astrophysics research throughÊinternational research programs, including ground-based observations, space experiments, and theoretical work in a wide variety of research areas.ÊSee the group'sÊresearch pagesÊfor full details.
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School Highlights
1st in London
Ranked joint first in London for research outputs (REF 2014), the School of Physics and Astronomy has an international reputation for its research across areas such as experimental particle physics, materials physics, string theory and astronomy.
£12m invested in refurbishment and new facilities in 2014
The school benefited from an extensive £12m refurbishment in 2014. Our new facilities include breakout spaces, offices and laboratories used in MSc projects.
The benefitsÊof London
The School takes advantage of its proximity to majorÊtransport hubs and research instiutions to attract visitors and seminar speakers. Students can also take advantage of the City's many opportunities for wider learning,Êfurther study and employment.
