We have an active research masters programme for self-funded students. Masters students carry out an independent research project with support from a member of academic staff, which is assessed on the basis of the examination of a thesis after one year of research (part time study is also possible). Students are expected to attend advanced undergraduate and postgraduate lecture courses in relevant subjects, and follow courses of directed reading, but the emphasis of the programme is on research rather than the taught element.

A limited number of University MSc studentships of £4.5k are available for the MSc programme, but applicants must provide the remaining funding. For information on fees and funding, please visit the Postgraduate Study - Fees and Funding page, see also the Postgraduate Study pages.

To apply for an MSc, please use our online application form, and select “Physics (MSc by research)” as the programme. At the top of your personal statement, please state clearly that you are applying for an MSc by research in astrophysics, and state which of our research areas you are interested in (you may list as many as you like).

Projects are based on the expertise of our academics. If you have a specific area of interest, and it aligns with the research undertaken by a member of staff, please feel free to contact that staff member directly to express your interest.