About the course

Explore the key topics at the cutting edge of modern astrophysics. You’ll get training in the practical skills used by professional astrophysicists and be able to conduct your own astronomical observations.

　　This course explains the formation and evolution of stars, galaxies and the Universe itself. It includes training on how to perform your own astronomical observations using our 0.5m telescope, which is located on La Palma in the Canary Islands but can be operated remotely from Sheffield. You can also take part in a subsidised field trip to La Palma and visit some of the world’s top observatories.

　　There are a number of optional modules to choose from, covering topics to deepen your understanding of the Universe, such as particle physics, dark matter, general relativity and astrobiology. The biggest part of your degree is your research project. We can run projects on topics including galaxies, quasars, supernovae, massive stars, white and brown dwarfs, star formation, star clusters, planet formation and the evolution of the solar system.

　　Field trip

　　Astrophysics students can go on a subsidised field trip to the international observatory on La Palma in the Canary Islands. The island is home to a number of world-leading telescopes that our astrophysicists use, and is an ideal environment for astronomy, being both to the equator and 2,400m above sea level.

　　Your career

　　The advanced topics you'll cover and the extensive research training make this course great preparation for a PhD and a career in astrophysics research. University of Sheffield graduates have gone to work for organisations such as the UK and European Space Agencies, the European Southern Observatory and many of the world's top 100 universities.

　　Astrophysics graduates also develop numerical, problem solving and data analysis skills that are useful in many careers, including computer programming, software engineering, data science, and research and development into new products and services. Employers that have hired Sheffield physics graduates include BT, EDF Energy, HSBC, IBM, Manchester United FC, Nissan, the NHS and the Civil Service. Scholarships - View all scholarships Internships

　　

Start dates and prices

Course fees are indicative and should be used as a guide. Speak to a counsellor to get an accurate price.

　　Duration: 1 Year(s)Fees: GB£25,600

Intake	Location
Autumn (September), 2024	Sheffield
Autumn (September), 2025	Sheffield

　　

How to apply

Entry requirements for University of Sheffield

Undergraduate degree in the physical sciences or a related subject (for example mathematics or computer science). We usually ask for a 2:1 degree in physics, astronomy or astrophysics.

　　Overall IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component, or equivalent, Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) internet-based test (IBT) - Overall score of 88 or above, with at least 17 in Listening, 17 in Writing, 18 in Reading and 20 in Speaking. We do not accept the TOEFL paper-based test, or MyBest scores

　　

English language requirements

　　6.5

　　Overall IELTS band score

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　　TOEFL Internet based overall score: 88.0

　　

Application deadline:

This date isn’t available – speak to an IDP counsellor to get detailed information.

　　

Further information

Career outcomesIf you aren’t eligible for the above entry requirements, you might want to explore pathway options at University of Sheffield. If you want to find out more, please speak to our counsellors.

　　Pathway options to study at this institution

　　

Reviews and rankings

World ranking

　　105th / 1250

　　THE World ranking20th / 130

　　Complete University guide

　　

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