Physics with Astrophysics Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)

We have a proud history of learning and innovation. Research undertaken within the School of Physics and Astronomy, by Professor Sir Peter Mansfield, was recognised with a 2003 Nobel Prize for the invention of Magnetic Resonance Imaging body scanners. This technology has already helped more than half a billion people worldwide. More recently, our use of quantum technologies to understand how the brain works is changing the way that neurological conditions are detected and treated. 

Our research activities cover cutting-edge topics ranging from probing quantum mechanics at ultralow temperatures to understanding the largest structures in the Uuniverse.  

Our courses offer a wide range of optional modules, so you can explore new areas of physics and specialise in the ones that interest you the most. You can study topics as diverse as cosmology, nanoscience, and medical imaging and learn from experts in those fields. What’s more, there is flexibility to transfer between most physics courses after the first year. 

Some of our teaching staff share their love of physics with budding scientists worldwide through the popular Sixty Symbols YouTube channel. Our unique, student centred MSci course offers innovative teaching methods, with few to no exams in the final year. 

We encourage students to share their fascination with physics with the wider community through our outreach programme. This programme can help you further develop skills such as organisation, communication and team working. We also have an active student society, PhysSoc, which organises social events throughout the year. Our mentoring scheme gives new starters the opportunity to connect with more experienced physics students, helping you settle into university life.

Tailored modules such as Cosmology and Extreme Astrophysics will give you a specialist understanding of astronomy. You will have the opportunity to conduct astronomical research by gathering data from our rooftop facilities and telescopes. Project work may involve analysing data from international facilities such as the Hubble Space Telescope or supercomputing cosmological simulations. 

\
Why choose this course?

\
Course highlights

* Learn from award-winning academics who are recognised by the Institute of Physics. You could work with them on your research project. 

* Benefit from our cutting-edge research activities that inform your learning. Experts in dark energy, medical imaging and quantum sensing teach on modules.

* Take advantage of our involvement in the White Rose Industrial Physics Academy to network with potential employers.

Proven results


* We’re ranked top 20 for physics and astronomy in the Complete University Guide and The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026.

* 90.6% of physics and astronomy graduates were in sustained employment, further study or both three years after graduation (LEO data from 2022/23 tax year, published in 2025).