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The University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 7NZ, T +44 (0)1227 764000
Astronomy, Space Science and Astrophysics with a Year in the USA MPhys MPhys (Hons)
This is a full-time single honours programme within the Astronomy, Space Science and Astrophysics subject area.
Key facts
- Subject area: Astronomy, Space Science and Astrophysics
- Award: MPhys (Hons)
- Code: F591
- Location: Canterbury
- Honours: Single
- Mode of study: Full-time
- Duration: 4 years
- Start: 2013
- Year in industry: No
- Year abroad: Yes
- Institution(s): University of Kent
Overview
Kent runs a fantastic programme for students who are inspired by the wonders and vastness of the universe. In this course, there are opportunities to investigate the possibilities of life elsewhere in the universe. You get involved with real space missions from ESA and NASA, and can work on Hubble Telescope data and images from giant telescopes.
In the MPhys programme, core knowledge and skills are enhanced with the further in-depth training required for a science-based career, including the practical aspects of research.
Our international exchange programme allows you to spend the third year of your degree studying in the USA at one of our partner universities, and our active student society organises trips and events such as virtual observing in Hawaii by remotely controlling a telescope on the other side of the world.
Modules
Stage 1
Core modules- Astrophysics, Space Science and Modern Physics
- Computing Skills
- Disasters
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Physics Lab
- Skills for Physicists
Stage 2
Core modules- Atomic and Nuclear Physics
- Mathematical Techniques and Differential Equations
- Multimedia for Astronomy, Astrophysics and Planetary Science
- The Multiwavelength Universe and Exoplanets
- Optics and Electromagnetism
- Physics Lab
- Quantum Physics
- Spacecraft Design and Operations
Stage 3
Core modules- Image Processing
- Numerical and Computational Method
- Physics Group Project
- Physics Project Laboratory
- Relativity, Optics and Maxwell's Equations
- Stars, Galaxies and the Universe
- The Sun, the Earth and Mars
- Thermal and Statistical Physics
Stage 4
(MPhys only)
Core modules- Particles and Quantum Physics
- Physics Research Project
- Rocketry and Human Spaceflight
- Space Astronomy and Solar System Science
Plus, depending on your chosen degree programme:
- Physical Science Research Planning
- The Sun, the Earth and Mars.
Year abroad
You spend a year in the USA between Stages 2 and 4, studying equivalent courses to those you take at Kent. Our partner universities include the Pennsylvania State University, several campuses of the University of California and the University of Indiana in Bloomington. If you take this course, you pay a reduced (50%) fee to Kent during your year abroad. You do not need to pay fees at the host university.
Please see the Go abroad webpages for further details.
Teaching and assessment
Teaching is by lecture, laboratory sessions, and project and console classes. You have approximately nine lectures a week, plus one day of practical work. In addition, you have reading and coursework and practical reports to prepare. In the MPhys final year, you work with a member of staff on an experimental or computing project.
Assessment is by written examination at the end of each year, plus continuous assessment of written coursework. Practical work is examined by continuous assessment. If you take the year in the USA, this counts towards your final degree assessment.
Careers
Our students go into areas such as research and development, technical management, computing, software design, the media and teaching. Many also go on to postgraduate study.
For more information on the services Kent provides to improve your employment prospects, visit www.kent.ac.uk/employability
Degrees recognised by the Institute of Physics.
Entry requirements
Offer levels
ABB at A level, including Mathematics grade B and Physics grade B, IB Diploma 33 points inc 5 in HL Physics or 6 in SL Physics and 5 in HL Mathematics or 6 in SL Mathematics (not Mathematics Studies), or IB Diploma with 15 points at Higher inc 5 in HL Physics or 6 in SL Physics and 5 in HL Mathematics or 6 in SL Mathematics (not Mathematics Studies).
Required subjects
A level Mathematics and Physics at a combination of grades BB.
Further information
School
Enquiries:
T: +44 (0)1227 827272
Key Information Sets
The Key Information Set (KIS) data (right) is compiled by UNISTATS and draws from a variety of sources which includes the National Student Survey and the Higher Education Statistical Agency. The data for assessment and contact hours is compiled from the most populous modules (to the total of 120 credits for an academic session) for this particular degree programme. Depending on module selection, there may be some variation between the KIS data and an individual's experience. For further information on how the KIS data is compiled please see the UNISTATS website.
If you have any queries about a particular programme, please contact information@kent.ac.uk