Understanding the origin and evolution of the universe is one of the most exciting and challenging problems in modern science.

In this programme you’ll use practical and theoretical approaches to explore the evolution and properties of astrophysical systems. You’ll apply the methods used by astronomers to determine the composition and distance of other stars and galaxies. And you’ll develop an understanding of the role played by dark matter and dark energy in the large-scale structure of the universe and its accelerating expansion.

Specialist modules focus on cosmology, galaxies, stars and planetary systems and are taught by active researchers involved in high-profile active research projects. Extra option modules provide scope for you to explore topics beyond the core syllabus, providing you with a rounded physics education with a specialist focus.

You’ll develop practical skills in lab work and programming that can be applied in commerce, industry or research.

In your final year, you’ll further develop your own interests through the completion of an independent research project, supervised by one of the School’s astrophysicists.

This course explains the formation and evolution of stars, galaxies and the Universe itself. It includes training on how to perform your own astronomical observations using our 0.5m telescope, which is located on La Palma in the Canary Islands but can be operated remotely from Sheffield. You can also take part in a subsidised field trip to La Palma and visit some of the world’s top observatories.

Our Physics with Astronomy courses teach you the core elements of traditional physics – from classical mechanics and electromagnetism to quantum mechanics.

You’ll then specialize in astronomy, studying the formation and evolution of stars, planets, galaxies and the Universe as a whole. You’ll learn about the search for life beyond Earth, gravitational waves, and the nature of dark matter and dark energy.

You’ll also be able to carry out a research project in one of our world-leading research groups.

You can apply to study for either a BSc or an MPhys. The latter is a direct route to a masters qualification. If you study for an MPhys, you’ll spend a year doing integrated research before returning for your final masters-level modules.

Explore astronomy and astrophysics at an advanced level, focusing on observational, theoretical or computational astronomy. This course is one of only three full-time, broad-based astronomy MSc courses in the UK.

This course is for you if you graduated from a physics- or applied mathematics-based degree with a substantial physics component, and wish to learn how to apply your knowledge to astronomy. Our Astronomy Centre carries out world-leading research in many branches of theoretical and observational astrophysics. Our particular focus is on the early universe, and galaxy formation and evolution.

The Department is a founder member of the South East Physics Network of physics departments (SEPnet), which supports vital research, teaching and development in the South East.

Our Space Exploration Systems MSc focuses on robotic and human space exploration. The degree is managed by an international joint academic-industrial consortium with partners in France, Italy and the UK

Designed for physicists and engineers, this cutting-edge course explores space systems engineering, space instrumentation, the space environment, space power systems (including nuclear power systems) and space mission design. Over the duration of the course, you will acquire the core applied physics and engineering skills required to develop space systems and missions from initial concept through design, assembly and verification, to launch and operations.

You will have the opportunity to work with academic and industrial practitioners in three countries, to acquire the knowledge and skills expected by space exploration research groups and the space industry in the 21st century academic and commercial sectors.

This course bridges the divide between systems engineering and space and planetary science. For physicists, it provides the systems engineering knowledge required to work in industry. For engineers, it will stimulate an appreciation for space science, and the enabling technologies for robotic and human space exploration and instrumentation which contribute to that science.

You will be educated in an international environment, and will graduate equipped with the top-level competency, professional skills and advanced space project experience needed to meet the requirements of the European and international space sectors.