Astronomy
(MSc) Astronomy
Entry for 2025
FHEQ level
This course is set at Level 7 (Masters) in the national Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.
Course Aims
- To produce students with a solid knowledge of astronomy, including
underlying mathematical and observational methods, with applications
in modern extra-Galactic astronomy, thus preparing students for
doctoral studies in this or a related area.
- To introduce students to research problems in modern astronomy through
either a research project or by a critical review of an area of
contemporary research interest.
- To introduce students to a wide range of topics in modern astronomy
and to provide them with a range of transferable skills, such as
communication and computer skills.
Course learning outcomes
A solid understanding of the basics of astronomy and the associated mathematical and observational methods. In particular, the student will be familiar with modern extra-Galactic astronomy.
A basic knowledge of the various research directions in modern astronomy as well a thorough understanding of a particular research subject.
A range of research skills and an understanding of how to conduct scientific research.
Independently seek and digest material on a specific topic.
Critically assess such material.
Demonstrate basic research skills and the ability to perform independent research in a given area.
Problem-solving and mathematical skills
Investigative skills
Presentation and communication skills
Computer skills
Manage resources and time
Learn independently with open-mindedness and in the spirit of critical enquiry
Full-time course composition
| Year | Term | Status | Module | Credits | FHEQ level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Autumn Semester | Core | Cosmology (900F3) | 15 | 7 |
| Core | Galactic Astrophysics (889F3) | 15 | 7 | ||
| Option | Data Analysis Techniques (890F3) | 15 | 7 | ||
| General Relativity (881F3) | 15 | 7 | |||
| Programming through Python (823G5) | 15 | 7 | |||
| All Year Teaching | Core | MSc Project Research Skills (PGT) (919F3) | 30 | 7 | |
| Spring Semester | Core | Astrophysical Processes (902F3) | 15 | 7 | |
| Core | Stellar and Planetary Physics (F3244) | 15 | 6 | ||
| Option | Advanced Cosmology (879F3) | 15 | 7 | ||
| Frontiers in Particle Physics (894F3) | 15 | 7 | |||
| Monte Carlo Simulations (L7) (865G1) | 15 | 7 | |||
| Spring & Summer Teaching | Core | MSc Project P&A (PGT) (920F3) | 60 | 7 |
Part-time course composition
| Year | Term | Status | Module | Credits | FHEQ level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Autumn Semester | Core | Cosmology (900F3) | 15 | 7 |
| Core | Galactic Astrophysics (889F3) | 15 | 7 | ||
| All Year Teaching | Core | MSc Project Research Skills (PGT) (919F3) | 30 | 7 | |
| Spring Semester | Core | Astrophysical Processes (902F3) | 15 | 7 | |
| Core | Stellar and Planetary Physics (F3244) | 15 | 6 | ||
| Year | Term | Status | Module | Credits | FHEQ level |
| 2 | Autumn Semester | Option | Data Analysis Techniques (890F3) | 15 | 7 |
| General Relativity (881F3) | 15 | 7 | |||
| Programming through Python (823G5) | 15 | 7 | |||
| Spring Semester | Option | Advanced Cosmology (879F3) | 15 | 7 | |
| Frontiers in Particle Physics (894F3) | 15 | 7 | |||
| Monte Carlo Simulations (L7) (865G1) | 15 | 7 | |||
| Spring & Summer Teaching | Core | MSc Project P&A (PGT) (920F3) | 60 | 7 |
Please note that the University will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver courses and modules in accordance with the descriptions set out here. However, the University keeps its courses and modules under review with the aim of enhancing quality. Some changes may therefore be made to the form or content of courses or modules shown as part of the normal process of curriculum management.
The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.