This consists of core modules on the key principles of physics and experimentation.

These include topics on:

• physics skills
• mathematics
• waves and light
• energy and matter
• motion and relativity
• electricity and magnetism

You’ll also take an introductory module on astronomy and space science to prepare you for your specialist astronomy studies.

Core modules include topics on:

• electromagnetism
• quantum physics
• mechanics
• wave physics
• galaxies

You can also choose from a range of optional modules on topics like:

• equations
• medical physics
• practical photonics
• energy in the environment

Core modules in year 3 cover topics on:

• atomic physics
• photons in astrophysics
• nuclei and particles
• theories of matter
• space and time
• stellar evolution

You’ll also do an individual dissertation.

In your final year, you’ll relocate to the Center for Astrophysics (CfA)

This combines the resources of the Harvard College Observatory and the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory to study the basic physical processes that determine the nature and evolution of the universe.

You’ll work alongside a CfA researcher on an agreed topic of astrophysics. These include star and planet formation, cosmology and extreme astronomical objects.

You’ll do a significant research project resulting in a thesis, ideally of publishable quality, under the guidance of a supervisor from the Harvard-Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory.