Explore the darkest reaches of the universe with our Astrophysics MSc and gain a detailed insight into the fundamentals of astrophysics. We offer one of the broadest ranges of higher-level astrophysics modules in the UK, so you can create a bespoke MSc tailored to your own interests.

• Utilise our excellent facilities, including our Astronomical Observatory
• Work with researchers involved with state of the art facilities such as JWST, ALMA, the Parker Solar Probe, LIGO, LISA, Euclid and the Vera Rubin Observatory
• Become eligible for membership of the Royal Astronomical Society and use of their facilities
• Gain specialist research skills that are valuable for both a career in industry or a future PhD
• Benefit from our pioneering, strong research. In particular, Queen Mary astronomers discovered the exoplanet, Proxima b, orbiting our nearest star, Proxima Centauri
• Be taught by and undertake research with our distinguished international experts and have regular contact with them throughout the programme.

What you'll study

Our Astrophysics MSc will give you a comprehensive understanding of the field, while also keeping you up-to-date with the very latest developments in astrophysics research.

The programme will cover diverse topics, such as the origin of the universe, dark matter, dark energy, galaxies, radiation mechanisms, the life and death of stars, black holes, extrasolar planets, space and solar plasma astrophysics, and the solar system.

Youll join a thriving, friendly research community, with a busy schedule of research seminars, colloquia, meetings and workshops (as well as regular social events), so you can make the most of the specialist research skills youll develop on this course.

Our academics work on high-profile international collaborations, using facilities such as the ALMA observatory, James Webb Space Telescope, the Parker Solar Probe and the gravitational wave detector LIGO. In addition to observations and instrumentation, we also have leading experts on theoretical and computational astrophysics and cosmology. Youll be able to call on their expertise when you work on your research project.

The flexible structure of this programme and its part-time option make this MSc especially suitable if you want to study and have other commitments. Each year, we welcome students studying for an MSc as part of a career break or change, or simply out of personal interest, so youll be among peers who share your passion for astrophysics.