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If you have an affinity for mathematics, physics, and astronomy, then the specialisation of astrophysics could be a good fit. An increasingly popular choice at MSc level, astrophysics is a STEM qualification that equips you with a multifaceted set of skills. In this article, we explore what the subject entails at master’s degree level, where you can study and the career opportunities you could enjoy.
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What is astrophysics? Astrophysics is a branch of physics that concentrates on the physical characteristics, position and movement of stars, planets, and other celestial bodies in the universe. |
Through applying laws, concepts, and theories of physics and chemistry, students learn to understand and develop physical theories to interpret and predict astronomical observations.
There are two types of astrophysics:
- Observational and
- Theoretical.
Observational astrophysics involves using telescopes to interpret, understand, and explain the universe.
Theoretical astrophysics applies the laws and theories of physics, with mathematics, to the findings provided by observational astrophysicists to investigate astronomical questions and propose solutions.
What is taught in an astrophysics course?
A master’s degree in astrophysics will typically include a selection of core modules to provide students with the necessary level of understanding of mathematics, physics, and quantum physics. You can choose from a range of elective modules to tailor the degree to your interests and ambitions.
Common modules in astrophysics master’s degrees include:
- Astrobiology
- Dark matter
- Electromagnetism
- Galaxy structure and evolution
- General relativity
- Nuclear astrophysics
- Physical cosmology
- Quantum mechanics
- Quantum physics
- Star structure and evolution
In addition to taught lectures and seminars, and laboratory sessions, most courses require students to undertake an independent research project investigating a specific astrophysical question or theory. This is an important part of the degree, designed to test and improve your comprehension of the subject, in addition to your skills in research, data analysis, and presentation.
Generally, an MSc in astrophysics will take between one and two years to complete full-time. Some universities also offer astrophysics, or physics with astrophysics, as an MPhys degree: a four-year course including an integrated master’s year.
Popular universities for pursuing a masters in astrophysics
Due to the high level of specialist equipment and technical expertise required, not all universities offer the option to study a master’s degree in astrophysics. As such, places on astrophysics courses can be limited, and degrees are competitive. Students are advised to carefully check relevant eligibility criteria and deadlines before application.
Popular colleges for international students studying MSc Astrophysics include:
- University College London, UK
- University of Manchester, UK
- University of Glasgow, UK
- University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, USA
- Arizona State University, USA
- University of Toronto, Canada
- Queen’s University, Canada
- University of Southern Queensland, Australia
- Australian National University, Australia
- Dublin City University, Ireland
| Explore more universities for postgraduate Astrophysics courses. |
Cost of studying for a master’s degree in astrophysics
The cost of studying an MSc in astrophysics abroad will vary depending on the study destination, university, and duration of study.
The median annual postgraduate tuition fees for international students in top study destinations are as follows:
- UK: GBP 17,100 per year (British Council, 2024)
- USA: USD 19,800 per year (National Center for Education Statistics, 2021)
- Australia: AUD 36,000 per year (QS Top Universities, 2023)
- Canada: CAD 18,000 per year (QS Top Universities, 2023)
In addition to your tuition fees, you must budget for your living expenses while you study abroad, including rent, travel, and course costs. In the UK, for example, these are estimated to be in the region of GBP 1,300 to GBP 1,400 per month (British Council, 2024).
If the cost of study is off-putting, don’t forget that many universities offer scholarships to international students applying to astrophysics degrees, particularly those who can demonstrate academic excellence.
Eligibility criteria for studying a master’s degree in astrophysics
To study for a master’s degree in astrophysics, you must meet certain eligibility criteria, which typically include high grades and a scientific background, with prior qualifications in maths and physics. Some universities may also require candidates to sit an entrance exam or to attend an interview.
Specific entry requirements for postgraduate astrophysics degrees vary between institutions and courses, but you will need a minimum of:
MSc Astrophysics
- Second-class honour’s degree (or equivalent) in a closely related subject, such as physics or mathematics.
MPhys Astrophysics
- A Levels: BBB – AAA; or
- International Baccalaureate: 30 – 38 points; or
- Equivalent qualification
To study astrophysics abroad, international students must meet English language requirements. These vary between institutions, but a common requirement is a minimum overall IELTS score in the region of 6.5 or an equivalent qualification.
Difference between astronomy and astrophysics
Technically there is no real difference between astronomy and astrophysics: both are the study of the universe, and both involve the application of theoretical and observational physics. Astronomers and astrophysicists typically specialise in a sub-branch of their discipline, such as cosmology, or celestial mechanics.
However, since there are some branches of astronomy (such as astrometry) which cannot technically be classified as astrophysics, some experts consider astrophysics to be a branch of astronomy. Regardless, the purpose of both astrophysics and astronomy is to understand the universe, its conception and evolution, and its capacity to support life.
Astrophysics career opportunities
To work as an astrophysicist, most companies will require you to hold at least an MSc or MPhys in astrophysics. For some roles, you may require a PhD.
Although working hours can be irregular, astrophysics can be an interesting and lucrative career path, with senior astronomers and astrophysicists in the UK earning over GBP 75,000 (Prospects, 2023).
Common careers for astrophysics graduates include:
- Academic lecturer
- Data analyst
- Research scientist
Common employers of graduates with an astrophysics degree include:
- Space organisations (e.g. NASA or the European Space Agency)
- Governmental organisations
- Universities
- Renewable energy companies
- Other private companies
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