Physics with Astrophysics

Physics with Astrophysics is a field of study that is truly at the forefront of scientific discovery, innovating what we know about our universe in addition to helping the development of vital technologies such as satellites and solar panels. As a student on this degree programme, you will develop advanced problem-solving skills, programming knowledge, critical thinking abilities and project management experience over the course of your degree. These skills open a wealth of career options from the very pure, such as expanding knowledge through scientific research or very practical like exploring the world of data science and software development. Many of our graduates continue their studies to PhD level and embark on a career in academia. A wealth of additional opportunities exists, such as teaching or careers within the business and finance sectors. Our graduates are well-paid, with the median starting salary of our Physics degrees being £32,300 (HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024).

Here are just some of the roles that our BSc and MPhys Physics with Astrophysics students have progressed into upon graduating:

• Finance Graduate – Close Brothers
• Data Engineering Consultant – SAS UK
• Systems Engineer – Perkin Elmer
• PhD Researcher – University of Warwick
• Associate Consultant – Opal Wave Solutions
• Documents Developer – Acturis
• Software Engineer – CERN
• Intrinsic Safety Engineer – Element Materials Technology
• Graduate (Future Leader) - United Utilities
• Project Coordinator – Institute of Physics
• Graduate Data Analyst – Virgin Media
• PhD Researcher – University of Sheffield

Lancaster University is dedicated to ensuring you not only gain a highly reputable degree, you also graduate with the relevant life and work based skills. We are unique in that every student is eligible to participate in The Lancaster Award which offers you the opportunity to complete key activities such as work experience, employability/career development, campus community and social development. Visit our Employability section for full details.

There may be extra costs related to your course for items such as books, stationery, printing, photocopying, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits. Following graduation, you may need to pay a subscription to a professional body for some chosen careers.

Specific additional costs for studying at Lancaster are listed below.

College fees

Lancaster is proud to be one of only a handful of UK universities to have a collegiate system. Every student belongs to a college, and all students pay a small college membership fee which supports the running of college events and activities. Students on some distance-learning courses are not liable to pay a college fee.

For students starting in 2025, the fee is £40 for undergraduates and research students and £15 for students on one-year courses.

Computer equipment and internet access

To support your studies, you will also require access to a computer, along with reliable internet access. You will be able to access a range of software and services from a Windows, Mac, Chromebook or Linux device. For certain degree programmes, you may need a specific device, or we may provide you with a laptop and appropriate software - details of which will be available on relevant programme pages. A dedicated IT support helpdesk is available in the event of any problems.

The University provides limited financial support to assist students who do not have the required IT equipment or broadband support in place.

Study abroad courses

In addition to travel and accommodation costs, while you are studying abroad, you will need to have a passport and, depending on the country, there may be other costs such as travel documents (e.g. VISA or work permit) and any tests and vaccines that are required at the time of travel. Some countries may require proof of funds.

Placement and industry year courses

In addition to possible commuting costs during your placement, you may need to buy clothing that is suitable for your workplace and you may have accommodation costs. Depending on the employer and your job, you may have other costs such as copies of personal documents required by your employer for example.

The fee that you pay will depend on whether you are considered to be a home or international student. Read more about how we assign your fee status.

Home fees are subject to annual review, and may be liable to rise each year in line with UK government policy. International fees (including EU) are reviewed annually and are not fixed for the duration of your studies. Read more about fees in subsequent years.

We will charge tuition fees to Home undergraduate students on full-year study abroad/work placements in line with the maximum amounts permitted by the Department for Education. The current maximum levels are:

• Students studying abroad for a year: 15% of the standard tuition fee
• Students taking a work placement for a year: 20% of the standard tuition fee

International students on full-year study abroad/work placements will also be charged in line with the maximum amounts permitted by the Department for Education. The current maximum levels are:

• Students studying abroad for a year: 15% of the standard international tuition fee during the Study Abroad year
• Students taking a work placement for a year: 20% of the standard international tuition fee during the Placement year

Please note that the maximum levels chargeable in future years may be subject to changes in Government policy.