MSc Astrophysics with Placement Year

Why choose Herts?

Cutting edge research: study and research cutting edge astrophysics in Hertfordshire’s internationally renowned Centre for Astrophysics Research.
Bayfordbury Observatory: train as an astrophysicist in one of the best equipped teaching observatories in the UK.
Specialist modules: study a broad astrophysics curriculum, with a wide range of specialist option modules.

The normal entry requirements for the programme are:

A good (2.1 or above) Honours degree (or equivalent) in physics, astrophysics, or a closely related subject, where the degree is accredited by a professional statutory regulatory body such as the Institute of Physics (or a body of equivalent standing in a related subject or overseas).

If you wish to join the course with a 2.2, your application may be considered on a case-by-case basis, where entry may be possible based on additional information and/or an interview.

It is not possible to register for the MSc Astrophysics if you have already obtained the University of Hertfordshire's MPhys (Physics) degree or MPhys (Astrophysics) degree.


Institution code	H36
School of study	School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science
Course length	Sandwich, 2 Years
Location	University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

Employability

Careers

You’ll develop key skills and knowledge in advanced physics, data analysis techniques, and software development, while exploring cutting edge topics in a fast-moving international research field. Your in-depth, specialist physics understanding, and range of technical and mathematical skills mean you’ll be well placed for a career in industrial or scientific research and in a range of STEM areas.

You’ll also be well equipped to progress onto a PhD programme joining a community of graduates who are contributing to cutting-edge research in the field.

Our graduates also find employment in international observatories, research institutions, engineering and financial industries, and teaching.

Work placement

You’ll have the opportunity to work for one year in a highly professional and stimulating environment. You will be a full-time employee in a company earning a salary and will learn new skills that can't be taught at University. During the placement, you’ll be able to gain further insight into industrial practice that you can take forward into your individual project.

You’ll be supported – both academically and professionally – throughout your placement and receive comprehensive career guidance from our very experienced dedicated Careers and Placements Service.

The responsibility for finding a placement is with you allowing you to seek opportunities in careers and companies which interest you. Our Careers and Placements Service maintains a wide variety of employers who offer placement opportunities and organise special training sessions to help you secure a placement, from job application to interview. Optional one-to-one consultations are also available.

In order to qualify for the placement period, you must pass all the first 60 credits of your study on your first attempt.

About the course

The programme offers three award routes that you can choose to study:

MSc Astrophysics
MSc Astrophysics with Placement Year
MSc Astrophysics Advanced Research

You’ll develop a thorough grounding in fundamental physics while exploring cutting edge topics about the Universe, its constituents and structure, and humanity’s place within it.

You’ll be trained in observational astrophysics and in the use of theory by carrying out a major research project supervised by a leading expert. Throughout the course, you’ll develop specialised skills in physics research enquiry and problem-solving, critical thinking, scientific writing, communication and presentation, and programming and software application.

The course gives you the unique opportunity to study a wide variety of astrophysical phenomena across many scales enabling you to explore all corners of the Universe. You'll study galactic topics, including: extra-solar planets, the life cycle of stars, gamma-ray bursters and supernovae. You’ll also have the opportunity to study extra-galactic topics, including: active galaxies at high redshift, cosmological theory and the evolution of the universe. You’ll also have the opportunity to undertake further advanced research through the different course pathways.

Why choose this course?

Research is at the forefront of the course and is embedded in your student experience from research-informed teaching, to opportunities for direct involvement with ongoing research projects.

You’ll be taken on an exciting learning journey led by staff from the University of Hertfordshire Centre for Astrophysics Research. You’ll benefit from their internationally renowned knowledge and experience from the work they carry out across a range of cutting-edge research topics in both galactic and extragalactic astrophysics.

The course benefits from a large practical component enabling you to put your knowledge and research into practice. As a student on the course, you’ll have unique access to the University’s own Bayfordbury Observatory. The Observatory is home to:

eight individual domes
a fully equipped computer building
five 40cm Meade telescopes (equipped with CCD detectors)
a solar telescope
a video telescope
four radio telescopes on-site which also facilitates a three-element radio interferometer.

The facilities are automated (with weather sensitive control) so observing can be done either remotely (via queue observing) or directly through on-site student visits.

Where will I study?

Learn in our new School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science building, where you’ll experience a range of experiential learning zones.

You will benefit from two new dedicated physics teaching labs. The new building will also be home to the Centre for Climate Change Research and the Wolfson Centre for Biodetection and Instrumentation Research, which have both been created in response to the most pressing global challenges.

You will also benefit from our Academic Support Hub, which is aimed at helping you build your employability and academic skills. Plus, have access to industry mentors who will provide you with pastoral support, vocational guidance, and career progression opportunities.

The new building will also provide space to collaborate, with plenty of workshops, social and meeting spaces available. Even better, the building has been designed with the University’s net zero carbon target in mind, and forms part of our plan to replace or upgrade older sites that are energy inefficient.

What will I study?

As part of the course, you’ll undertake six compulsory modules focused on the latest cutting-edge research. You’ll study an exciting blend of topics, including:

galactic and extragalactic astrophysics
astrophysical techniques and concepts
fundamental theory
analysis methods.

The structure of the course enables you to take your research and career in the direction which suits you. You’re able to tailor your degree to your own interests and undertake an additional two optional modules from specialist areas of astrophysics, space science, fundamental theory, and optical physics.

The work placement starts in the summer at the end of the first year and runs to the end of second year teaching. A major astrophysics project follows the placement over the summer of second year, supervised by a leading expert in your chosen field. Project teaching comprises of individual supervision and guidance to support your development as a researcher.

Where will I study?

Learn in our brand-new School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science building, opening in 2024, where you’ll experience a range of experiential learning zones.You will benefit from two new dedicated physics teaching labs. The new building will also be home to the Centre for Climate Change Research and the Wolfson Centre for Biodetection and Instrumentation Research, which have both been created in response to the most pressing global challenges.

You will also benefit from a Success and Skills Support Unit, which is aimed at helping you build your employability and academic skills. Plus, have access to industry mentors who will provide you with pastoral support, vocational guidance, and career progression opportunities.

Level 6

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Rocket Performance and Propulsion	15 Credits	Optional
This module will introduce students to flight dynamics of rockets and their propulsion systems. Typical applications under consideration will include satellite launch and insertion into orbit, sounding rockets and potential future applications such as space tourism.
Space Dynamics	15 Credits	Optional
Space dynamics is a coursework-only module. Students work in a computer lab supervised by the module facilitator. There are no formal lectures. Instead, students work their way through a set of computer exercises using Matlab. The exercises allow the student to tackle problems in different ways and develop their own style of problem-solving. The module covers various aspects in spacecraft dynamics including: atmospheric drag, aerobraking, transfer orbits, injection orbits, spacecraft spin, the stability of spinning motion – Euler's equations, three-dimensional spin motion, and mass models of irregular objects. The module develops skills in research enquiry and problem solving, analysis and evaluation, interpersonal and communication skills, autonomy and responsibility for actions.
Star Formation and Evolution	15 Credits	Optional
Stars and their structure, including their formation and evolution from the main sequence to final stellar remnants. Topics covered include hydrostatic equilibrium, convection zones and radiative pressure support, nuclear burning and energy generation, the mass-luminosity relation, giant and dwarf stars and the initial mass function. Observatory work will provide training in experimental and observational skills.
Foundations of Cosmology	15 Credits	Optional
The study of the structure and evolution of the Universe has in the last few decades undergone a true transformation. Driven by tremendous technological advances, we now have entered the era of precision cosmology. The module will cover the mathematical framework of expanding, curved space-time in the context of Einstein's General Theory of Relativity, particularly the Robertson-Walker metric, and the Friedmann models followed by an inventory of the constituents of the Universe, including Dark Matter and Dark Energy.
The Physics of Astronomical Spectra	15 Credits	Optional
From the nearest stars to the most distant galaxies (and the tenuous matter in between), astronomers can reveal and study properties and physical conditions by measuring the spectrum of the emitted radiation. Learn about the radiative processes that shape the variety of spectra encountered, and understand how astronomers discover the huge diversity of astronomical objects around us; the emergent radiation of stellar atmospheres and of giant glowing nebulae will be examined, as well as the imprint of the extremely low density inter-stellar medium.
The Early Universe and Galaxy Formation	15 Credits	Optional
A combination of incredible advances in observational techniques, i.e., large ground-based optical and radio telescopes, complemented with sophisticated space-based observatories, has made it possible to peer out to the edge of the observable Universe, effectively looking back in time when galaxies first assembled. This module covers the physics of the very early Universe, including when the first structures formed under the influence of gravity, and how these structures evolved into what we now call galaxies.
Lagrangian Dynamics	15 Credits	Optional
This module introduces the powerful mathematics used in the study of dynamical systems. We start with the calculus of variations, a topic which deals with "extremisation" questions in geometry, e.g. "What shape does a soap-film form?", or "What curve is formed by a heavy chain hanging under its own weight?". These techniques can be applied to mechanical systems, and it turns out that the laws of motion themselves arise from extremising some quantity – the "action". This Lagrangian perspective gives a powerful way to compute a system's equations of motion and to understand its symmetries. Finally the module describes how the Hamiltonian formalism reduces these second order equations to first-order, and in so doing introduces the concept of phase space while touching on the rich topic of symplectic geometry. The module develops skills in research enquiry and problem solving, analysis and evaluation, and conceptualisation and critical thinking.
Applied Photonics	15 Credits	Optional
Photonics is an important, modern high-tech industry with applications in optical communication, computing and information-storage, and medical imaging/detectors. Learn about photonics starting from image formation and aberrations, study lasers and other light emitting devices, and investigate current applications in photonics research fields, in lecture, laboratory and workshop settings.

Level 7

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Aerospace Aerodynamics	15 Credits	Optional
This module develops the student's knowledge of aerodynamics and experience of using CFD. Students will develop their knowledge of the use of potential flow theory including its application to the panel method for aerodynamic prediction. Other topics covered will include lifting line and slender body theory together with hypersonic aerodynamics. The CFD applications part of the module provides an overview of the governing flow equations and their range of application. Students will make extensive use of commercial codes to simulate airflows. Apart from applications to external flows, methods for multi-phase flows and flows with conjugate heat transfer will be reviewed. There is also an introduction to subroutines and user functions in commercial codes.
Space Systems	15 Credits	Optional
There are 7 major subsystems which make up a spacecraft. These are:- Structure, Propulsion, Thermal, Power, Control, Telecommand and Repeater. Besides all these there are the Systems aspects (Mass, Mission, Quality, EMC etc, Software etc - as listed below). Mechanical Structure design, overall configuration, appendage deployments math modelling, stress analysis, structure stiffness (35 Hz to meet launcher needs), sine and acoustic testing, interface loads, mechanisms Propulsion Apogee engine, orbit thrusters, piping, valves, tanks, fuel types, fuel metering (zero g).on orbit station keeping Thermal Exterior radiative surfaces, internal thermal control, heaters, heatpipes, thermocouples, thermistors Electrical Solar panels, solar array drive motors, power conditioning, battery control, power distribution internally, eclipse management, harness, circuit design, derating analysis, software (FPGA, ASIC, etc) Control Control laws, software, station keeping, (roll pitch yaw) gyros, momentum-reaction wheels. sensors (sun, earth, star), recovery modes Telecommand (& Telemetry) U plink and downlink signals, distribution inside spacecraft, internal data collection, Repeater (receiver and transmitter) Coverage areas & performance, uplink and downlink antennas, receive circuits, power amplifiers, up & down converters, phased arrays, cables, waveguides, switching networks System aspects Mass control (launch cost $10k per kg), mass distribution Mission (launch strategy, orbit, on station, station changes) All interfaces all 7 subsystems above plus launch vehicle Design Spacecraft configuration, layout, reliability, Worst Case Analysis, Parts Stress Analysis, Failure Mode Analysis Radiation analysis (all electrical circuits) Total dose, displacement damage, electrostatic discharge Repeater Electro-magnetic compatibility (EMC), PIM (passive inter modulation), Multipaction, Corona discharge, Quality
High Energy Astrophysics	15 Credits	Compulsory
High-energy astrophysics is "the astrophysics of high-energy processes and its application in astrophysical contexts" (Longair). Such processes are typically associated with extreme objects, like black holes, neutron stars, or white dwarfs. A high mass can give rise to high energy processes, like for example in very massive galaxy clusters or near supermassive black holes, but also extreme situations, like collapse of very massive stars to produce a gamma ray burst, or the merger of black holes or neutron stars, which have also been observed to produce gravitational waves. This course will develop in students a deep understanding of the high-energy processes that are important in astrophysics, the key types of astrophysical situation in which they operate, and the methods by which their effects are detected from Earth. The module develops skills in research enquiry and problem solving, analysis and evaluation, communication skills, information searching, conceptualisation.
Relativity and Field Theory	15 Credits	Compulsory
Relativistic field theory is central to high energy physics, from particle colliders to astrophysics. This module introduces classical relativistic field theory with an emphasis on using the right theoretical framework to manifest the unity and simplicity of physics. Considerable stress is placed on the role of symmetry as a powerful organising principle, from the global Poincaré symmetry of special relativity, which through Noether's theorem implies the existence of relativistic conserved quantities, to the local U(1) gauge symmetry of Maxwell theory, which underpins the electromagnetic force.
Galaxy Structure and Evolution	15 Credits	Compulsory
Galaxy formation and evolution is one of the most topical and active fields of current astronomical research. Although we now have a relatively complete cosmological model taking us from a fraction of a second after the big-bang to the epoch of last scattering, the details of how galaxies subsequently formed and evolved to become those that we see today are not yet fully understood. This module will cover current observational and theoretical developments in this field, using the known properties of local galaxies as a benchmark. In addition, the module will look towards the future with particular focus on what we might learn about the first galaxies formed after last scattering, i.e. during the epoch of re-ionization. The module develops skills in research enquiry and problem solving, analysis and evaluation, communication skills, and conceptualisation.
General Relativity	15 Credits	Optional
Einstein's revolutionary general theory of relativity describes gravity as the curvature of space-time. This elegant vision of gravity emerged from his "happiest thought" - that gravity vanishes in a free-falling elevator (and the ensuing equivalence of gravity and acceleration). Follow Einstein's thought processes and learn the relativistic theory of gravity, which predicts some of the most mysterious (but observed!) astrophysical phenomena - black holes, the expanding Universe, and gravitational waves.
Statistics and Analysis	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module develops statistical concepts which are applied in modern physical and astrophysical research. The module will look into the different kinds of distributions and errors. Methods for hypothesis testing and data fitting will be investigated and applied to research data. Monte Carlo and Bootstrapping procedures will be used for error propagation. These statistical methods will be implemented in a procedural language such as Python. The module will cover the syntax and control structures such as loops and logical statements, and building complex programmes by writing and linking separate functions and procedures. In this module you will develop your skills in problem solving, analysis and evaluation, and computer programming.
Data Science Core Skills Bootcamp	0 Credits	Optional
In this intensive, non"assessed 'bootcamp' module students will become familiar with the core mathematical, statistical and programming concepts that underpin MSc Data Science. Very little prior knowledge is assumed for this module, which aims to provide a solid grounding in the key basic skills. The curriculum includes: basic algebra and mathematical concepts (e.g. functions), vectors and matrices, linear algebra, differentiation, statistical distributions, probability, and basic programming using the Python language. The delivery of the module content comprises of a set of online lectures, tutorials and problem sets, where students will gain familiarity with the central topics. There are 3 handbooks, one for each topic (maths, statistics and programming), containing notes to guide the learning. Students can check their progress on the module through a series of online formative quizzes. The module will be completed by students in self"directed study.
Research Techniques in Astrophysics	15 Credits	Compulsory
Astrophysicists study the universe and its content using a range of detectors/instruments mounted on large telescopes, receivers and arrays. These allow the measurement of radiation (and sometimes particles) over a very wide range of energies, from X-rays and gamma-rays, through optical and the infrared, out to micro- and radio-waves. At these wavelengths astronomers are able to study a vast diversity of astrophysical phenomena ranging from; black holes and GRBs, star birth and death, extra-solar planets and brown dwarfs, the glow of the big bang, galactic jets and quasars. In this module you will learn about the fundamental physics and technology behind these techniques, and explore the process of making and interpreting astrophysical measurements. You will also undertake an astronomy observing project at the Bayfordbury Observatory and gain important technical skills as an astrophysicist. The module develops skills in research enquiry and problem solving, analysis and evaluation, interpersonal and communication skills, scientific writing and information searching, conceptualisation and critical thinking.
From Stars to Planets	15 Credits	Compulsory
Galactic astrophysics covers many cutting edge topics, from understanding how stars form evolve and end their lives, to exploring the extremes in mass and temperature that characterise the coolest brown dwarfs and extra-solar planets. The occurrence of life in the Universe is also tied to the physics of these objects, with on-going discovery efforts revealing great diversity amongst these worlds. In this module you will carry out three case studies involving analytical/numerical modelling, one each in the fields of stars, brown dwarfs, and extra-solar planets. Each case study is accompanied by lectures covering the state-of-the-art research background and the science basis of the case study. The module develops skills in research enquiry and problem solving, analysis and evaluation, scientific writing and information searching, and conceptualisation.
Astrophysics Masters Project	60 Credits	Compulsory
In undertaking an Astrophysics Masters Project students will carry out a major piece of investigative and practical work at the interface with current research. Astrophysics research areas in the Department include; star formation in the Milky Way, the disc and bulge of the Milky Way, extra-solar planets and brown dwarfs, planetary nebulae and white dwarfs, Active Galactic Nuclei physics and environment, the formation and evolution of galaxies, and the structure of galaxies. A successful project will become a key feature of a student's professional profile and CV, and is often a central talking point in graduate job interviews and/or postgraduate applications. The module develops skills in research enquiry and problem solving, analysis and evaluation, organisational working, interpersonal and communication skills, scientific writing and information searching, conceptualisation and critical thinking, adaptation to context, synthesis and creativity, personal evaluation and development, and ethical awareness and application.
Work Placement	60 Credits	Compulsory
Supervised work experience provides students with the opportunity to set their academic studies in a broader context, to gain practical experience in specific technical areas and to strengthen their communication and time management skills. Students who have undertaken placement years describe their increase in self-confidence and employability, as well as better personal understanding of the career they choose to pursue after graduation.

Key staff

Dr Carrie Ricketts
Work Placements Tutor

Professor David Pinfield
Professor of Astronomy, Physics and Astrophysics Programme Leader
Find out more about Professor David Pinfield

Further course information

Course fact sheets
MSc Astrophysics (Sandwich)	Download

Programme specifications
MSc Astrophysics (Sandwich)	Download

Additional information
Sandwich placement or study abroad year	Mandatory
Applications open to international and EU students	Yes

Student experience

At the University of Hertfordshire, we want to make sure your time studying with us is as stress-free and rewarding as possible. We offer a range of support services including; student wellbeing, academic support, accommodation and childcare to ensure that you make the most of your time at Herts and can focus on studying and having fun.

Find out about how we support our students

You can also read our student blogs to find out about life at Herts.

Funding and fees
Other financial support

Find out more about other financial support available to UK and EU students

Fees 2024
UK Students
Full time
- £13545 for 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 inclusive
EU Students
Full time
- £18950 for 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 inclusive
International Students
Full time
- £18950 for 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 inclusive
Fees 2025
UK Students
Full time
- £14400 for 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 inclusive
EU Students
Full time
- £19800 for 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 inclusive
International Students
Full time
- £19800 for 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 inclusive
*Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students. Please see the University's Fees and Finance Policy (and in particular the section headed "When tuition fees change"), for further information about when and by how much the University may increase its fees for future years.

View detailed information about tuition fees

Living costs / accommodation

The University of Hertfordshire offers a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.

View detailed information about our accommodation

Read more about additional fees in the course fact sheet
How to apply

International/EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK

Apply through our international/EU application portal

Home and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

2025
Start Date End Date Year Location Link
25/09/2025 31/05/2026 1 UH Hatfield Campus Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)
2026
Start Date End Date Year Location Link
25/09/2026 31/05/2027 1 UH Hatfield Campus Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)

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MSc Astrophysics with Placement Year

Why choose Herts?

Careers

Work placement

About the course

Why choose this course?

What will I study?

Where will I study?

Key staff

Further course information

Student experience

Other financial support

Fees 2024

UK Students

Full time

EU Students

Full time

International Students

Full time

Fees 2025

UK Students

Full time

EU Students

Full time

International Students

Full time

Living costs / accommodation

International/EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK

Home and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

2025

2026