What will I learn?

The Masters in Astrophysics gives you an understanding of the principles and methods of modern astrophysics at a level appropriate for a professional physicist. The School plays a world-leading role in the design and operation of the worldwide network of laser interferometers that have detected gravitational waves. The School of Physics and Astronomy is highly active in research and knowledge transfer projects with industry. Our Masters students have regular opportunities to engage with our industrial collaborators through informal visits, guest lectures and workshops. This programme is accredited by the Institute of Physics. Accredited MSc programmes automatically meet the master’s level education requirement for Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status. To fully meet the educational requirements for CPhys graduates must also possess an IOP accredited undergraduate degree or equivalent. The School has a major role in the award winning NASA RHESSI X-ray mission studying solar flares and in several other forthcoming international space missions such as ESA’s Solar Orbiter. You will also benefit from our membership of the Scottish Universities Physics Alliance. The alliance brings together internationally leading physics research across Scotland to form the largest physics grouping in the UK. You will gain the theoretical, observational and computational skills necessary to analyse and solve advanced astrophysics problems, providing you with an excellent foundation for a career of scientific leadership in academia or industry. You will develop transferable skills that will improve your career prospects, such as project management, team-working, advanced data analysis, problem-solving, critical evaluation of scientific literature, advanced laboratory and computing skills, and how to effectively communicate with different audiences. You will benefit from direct contact with our group of international experts who will teach you cutting-edge physics and supervise your projects.Career prospectsCareer opportunities include academic research, based in universities, research institutes, observatories and laboratory facilities industrial research in a wide range of fields including energy and the environmental sector, IT and semiconductors, optics and lasers, materials science, telecommunications, engineering banking and commerce higher education.

Which department am I in?

School of Physics and Astronomy

Study options

Full Time (12 Months)

Tuition fees

£2,475.00 (2,69,667) Month

This is a provisional fee yet to be approved

*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution

Start date

September 2026

Venue

Gilmorehill Campus

University of Glasgow,

University Avenue,

Glasgow,

Scotland,

G12 8QQ, Scotland, United Kingdom

Entry requirements

For international students

2.1 Hons (or non-UK equivalent) in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics or Maths with at least 1 credit bearing module in each of the following areas including Introductory Astrophysics, Dynamics, Thermodynamics, Electromagnetism, Quantum Mechanics and Relativity at an average grade of Pass or non-UK equivalent, with modules in each of Dynamics and Electromagnetism and Thermodynamics and Relativity and Quantum Mechanics and Introductory Astrophysics at an average grade of pass.

We may also accept degrees in Meteorology, Physics combined with Chemistry/Engineering, or related subject with significant Physics content at 2.1 Hons (or non-UK equivalent). A 2.2 Hons (or non-UK equivalent) in Astrophysics followed by substantial relevant experience may be considered on an individual basis

*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.