Undergraduate BSc (Hons)
Astronomy, Space Science and Astrophysics
with a Foundation Year
Inspired by the wonders and vastness of the universe? This is the course for you.
Inspired by the wonders and vastness of the universe? This is the course for you.
Physics gives you the tools to understand our world at a fundamental level, from the smallest sub-atomic particles to the large-scale structure of the universe. Our dedicated foundation year will give you the knowledge and skills needed for entry to any of our physics, astrophysics, astronomy or space science degrees.
This course is designed for science students who do not meet the requirements for direct entry to Stage 1 of our degree courses. It is also an excellent conversion course for applicants who have shown academic ability in non-science subjects. We consider applicants without traditional academic qualifications who have relevant professional experience.
Successful completion of the foundation year allows you to move on to any of our physics, astrophysics, astronomy or space science degrees, including the four-year integrated Master's (MPhys).
You'll also develop the transferable skills to open up a world of job opportunities, leading to careers in research, aeronautics, engineering, medical physics, defence, teaching, finance and data analytics.
This course is fully accredited by the Institute of Physics.
Your degree opens the door to lots of exciting careers; taking a professional placement year helps you discover some of those options.
You'll be able to move between our courses in the earlier years, ensuring you are studying the best course for you.
Dr Tim Kinnear and student Amber Whale describe what's great about studying at Kent from outstanding facilities to industry connections.
You'll discover the latest developments in areas such as the solar system and space science, galactic structure and planetary nebulae.
You'll use newly-refurbished physics and astronomy labs, a photonics centre and the Beacon Observatory with optical telescope.
For those with a relevant science qualification our standard offer is CDD with one of these to be Maths or Physics. For those without a relevant science qualification, our standard offer is BCC.
The University will consider applicants holding/studying BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) in a relevant Science or Engineering subject at 120 credits or more, on a case by case basis. Please contact us via the enquiries tab for further advice on your individual circumstances.
80 Tariff points overall, Typically H5, H4, H4 at HL including HL Maths/Maths Method, HL Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches or HL Physics at 4 or HL Maths Studies at 5, or SL Maths or Physics at 5 at HL including HL Maths/Maths Method or HL Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches at 4 or HL Maths Studies at 5.
N/A
The University will consider applicants holding T level qualifications in subjects closely aligned to the course.
The University welcomes applications from Access to Higher Education Diploma candidates for consideration. A typical offer may require you to obtain a proportion of Level 3 credits in relevant subjects at merit grade or above.
Required subjects
We consider all applications on an individual basis during Clearing and you're encouraged to get in touch to discuss your grades. You're most likely to be offered a place in Clearing for this course if you hold the following subjects:
The following modules are offered to our current students. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation:
You'll study mathematics, physics, electronics and computing, and take part in practical classes.
This module introduces students to the basic principles of electro-magnetism and electrostatics that are necessary in order to understand modern electronic and communications systems. Practical work and examples classes are included to assist the student learning.
Algebra: simplifying expressions and rearranging formulae, indices, surds, algebraic fractions, quadratic equations and the discriminant, completing the square and turning points of quadratics, simultaneous equations, inequalities, manipulating and factorising polynomials, polynomial long division, binomial expansions, exponentials and logarithms, equations involving exponentials, partial fractions.
Functions and graphs: sketching and recognising the graphs of elementary functions (powers of x, exponential, etc.) and the modulus function, the link between algebra and geometry, roots, points of intersection of curves, simple graph transformations.
Differential Calculus: The derivative as the gradient of the tangent to the graph, interpretation of the derivative as a rate of change, the formal definition of the derivative and the calculation of simple examples from first principles, differentiation of elementary functions, elementary properties of the derivative, including the product rule, quotient rule and the chain rule, using differentiation to find and classify stationary points, applications to finding basic Maclaurin series.
Integral Calculus: The integral as the area under a graph, definite and indefinite integrals, integration of simple functions, integration by parts, integration by substitution integration using partial fractions, separable first order ordinary differential equations.
This module introduces fundamental methods needed for the study of mathematical subjects at degree level.
a) Co-ordinate Geometry: co-ordinate geometry of straight lines and circles, parallel and perpendicular lines, applications to plots of experimental data.
b) Trigonometry: definitions and properties of trigonometric, inverse trigonometric, and reciprocal trigonometric functions, radians, solving basic trigonometric equations, compound angle formulae, small angle formulae, geometry in right-angled and non-right angled triangles, sine and cosine rule, opposite and alternate angle theorems.
c) Vectors: Notations for and representation of vectors in one, two, and three dimensions; addition, subtraction, and scalar multiplication of vectors; magnitude of a vector.
One-on-one meetings and small group tutorials focused on academic progression and the development of key skills to support the core curriculum and future study or employment. Students meet with their Academic Advisor individually or in small groups at intervals during the academic year. Individual meetings review academic progress, support career planning etc. Themed tutorials develop transferable skills; indicative topics are essay and report writing, presentation skills, sourcing information, critical analysis etc. The tutorials are informal involving student activity and discussion. Year group events deliver general information e.g. on University resources, 4-year programmes, module selection etc.
Mechanics is concerned with the behaviour of physical bodies when subjected to forces or displacements. The course will introduce terminology via the topics of units, dimensions, and dimensional analysis. The motion of objects will be studied in terms of distance, velocity, and acceleration time graphs. Then the role of forces in causing motion will be studied under the topics of Newton's Laws of Motion and Friction. The relationship between forces and energy will be introduced in terms of Work and Power, which will be connected to the topics of potential energy, kinetic energy, and Conservation of energy. The topic of Linear momentum will be introduced in order to study Conservation of linear momentum. The course will then study Circular motion and Rotational systems in relation to topics such as moment of inertia and torque. The case of gravitational force will be studied to illustrate topics of force fields and potential energy in force fields.
The module will cover the following:
• Types of waves. Characteristics of a wave: frequency, period, amplitude, wavelength and velocity. Introduction to transverse and longitudinal waves and polarisation.
• Properties of Waves: Qualitative description of the properties of waves; motion, reflection, refraction (Snell's law), dispersion, diffraction, interference, standing waves.
• Sound Waves: Description of sound - loudness, noise, note, pitch, intensity, intensity level. Properties of sound - reflection, refraction, interference (interference pattern produced by two speakers), beats, and resonance in a vibrating wire, including overtones/harmonics. Qualitative treatment of Doppler Effect.
• Electromagnetic (em) Waves: Electromagnetic spectrum. Qualitative treatment of em waves from different parts of the spectrum. Refraction of light - critical angle and optical fibres. Polarisation of light, microwaves and radio waves. Interference. Young's double slit experiment. The Michelson interferometer. Transmission diffraction grating - orders of diffraction, application in spectroscopy.
• Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM): Displacement, velocity and acceleration of a body undergoing SHM Link between SHM and circular motion. Force acting on a body undergoing SHM. Qualitative description of systems displaying SHM. Detailed description of pendulum and mass on a spring. Energy in SHM. General expression for SHM.
• Damping and Forced Oscillations: Qualitative treatment of light, heavy and critical damping. Qualitative discussion of the concepts of natural frequency, resonance and the behaviour of vibratory systems driven by a periodic force.
This module will cover the following topics:
• Simple model of nuclear atom. Atomic number and mass. The periodic table. The mole and Avogadro's number. Solids, liquids and gases. Interatomic forces. Excitation and ionization. The electron volt.
• Spectra and energy levels. E = hf. Relation of spectra to transitions between energy levels. Bohr atom quantitatively. Photoelectric effect. Crystalline lattices. Amorphous materials. X-ray diffraction. Polymers and plastics.
• Gases, liquids and solids. Pressure. Archimedes principle. Hydrostatics. Heat and temperature scales. Thermometers. Latent heat. Thermal expansion. Perfect gas laws.
• Thermal equilibrium and temperature. Thermal conduction. Radiation laws. Kinetic theory of gases.
• Introduction to radioactivity.
There will be laboratory sessions with eight experiments relating to both general skills and to the syllabus of the Physics lecture modules PH023, PH025 and PH026.
There will be lecture tutorials on:
Introduction to the module
Analysing experimental uncertainties
Writing reports on laboratory work
You’ll get to grips with the broad knowledge base on which physics is built and develop your, experimental, computational, statistical and analytical skills.
This module provides an introduction to astronomy, beginning with our own solar system and extending to objects at the limits of the universe. Straightforward mathematics is used to develop a geometrical optics model for imaging with lenses and mirrors, and this is then used to explore the principles of astronomical telescopes.
This module builds on prior knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, and trigonometry. It will cover key areas of mathematics which are widely used throughout undergraduate university physics. In the first part it will look at functions, series, derivatives and integrals. In the second part it will look at vectors, matrices and complex numbers.
This module builds on the Mathematics I module to develop key mathematical techniques involving multiple independent variables. These include the topics of differential equations, multivariate calculus, non-Cartesian coordinates, and vector calculus that are needed for Physics modules in Stages 2 and 3.
In this module the mathematics of vectors and calculus are used to describe motion, the effects of forces in accordance with Newton's laws, and the relation to momentum and energy. This description is extended to rotational motion, and the force of gravity. In addition, the modern topic of special relativity is introduced.
This module examines key physical phenomena of waves and fields which extend over time and space. The first part presents a mathematical description of oscillations and develops this to a description of wave phenomena. The second part is an introduction to electromagnetism which includes electric and magnetic fields before providing an introduction to the topic of electrical circuits.
This module develops the principles of mechanics to describe mechanical properties of liquids and solids. It also introduces the principles of thermodynamics and uses them to describe properties of gases. The module also introduces the modern description of atoms and molecules based on quantum mechanics.
This module guides students through a series of experiments giving them experience in using laboratory apparatus and equipment. Students will also learn how to accurately record and analyse data in laboratory notebooks and write scientific laboratory reports. The experiments cover subjects found in the Physics degree program and are run parallel with Computing Skills workshops in which students are introduced to the concept of using programming/scripting languages to analyse and report data from their experiments.
One-on-one meetings and small group tutorials focused on academic progression and the development of key skills to support the core curriculum and future study or employment. Students meet with their Academic Advisor individually or in small groups at intervals during the academic year. Individual meetings review academic progress, support career planning etc. Themed tutorials develop transferable skills; indicative topics are essay and report writing, presentation skills, sourcing information, critical analysis etc. The tutorials are informal involving student activity and discussion. Year group events deliver general information e.g. on University resources, 4-year programmes, module selection etc.
You’ll deepen your understanding of physics and astrophysics, carry out in-depth laboratory experiments and work on group projects.
Mathematical techniques are essential for solving problems in physics and related fields. You will gain comprehensive grounding in the mathematical methods necessary for solving differential equations, understanding special functions, and conducting harmonic analysis. You’ll also get a grounding in numerical methods and asymptotic analysis, preparing students for the analytical challenges they will encounter in their studies and professional lives.
Building on a strong mathematical foundation for further study and research, the skills you develop will not only benefit you academically but also enhance your employability, preparing you for technical roles in research, engineering, data analysis, and beyond, where rigorous mathematical reasoning and problem-solving abilities are highly valued by employers.
Modern science is a collaborative effort, requiring physicists to work in teams of varying sizes, and to communicate their results to a wide range of audiences. We ensure you will develop your ability to conduct complex investigations as a team, and to disseminate your outcomes.
You’ll do this through producing more comprehensive written reports and using computational scripts to analyse and visualise data. A key focus is on analysis of experimental uncertainties and comparison with underlying physical theories. Your team-working skills will be developed through a group project focused on a real, open-ended research topic, with problems chosen from a list drawn from the research interests of academics, problems set by industry, and areas such as physics education and outreach.
The skills developed in this module will help prepare you for more in-depth investigations later in your degree and for collaborative working in your future career.
Dive into the fascinating world of quantum mechanics, where you will develop a comprehensive understanding of wave functions, the Schrödinger equation, and quantum numbers, essential for describing the properties of key physical systems.
This module introduces you to critical terminology and mathematical concepts fundamental to quantum mechanics, such as eigenstates, eigenvalues, and expectation values. You will explore the Schrödinger equation through various important systems, including two-state systems, particles in simple potentials, and the simple harmonic oscillator. You will also learn how to use the Schrödinger equation in different coordinate systems to understand the concept of angular momentum in quantum mechanics.
In the realm of atomic physics, you will investigate solutions for atoms, with a particular focus on the hydrogen atom, and study their interactions with electromagnetic radiation. These methods extend to the study of molecules and nuclei, providing a robust framework for understanding a wide range of physical phenomena.
This module offers a detailed and accurate portrayal of atomic structures, which are the fundamental building blocks of numerous physical processes and phenomena.
Electromagnetism and Relativity are two fundamental classical theories in Physics. You'll be introduced to a range of important laws and principles that lay the foundation for studies in these fields. You'll develop an understanding of magnetic and electric fields and how to apply Maxwell’s laws to describe all phenomena involving electromagnetic waves (from radio waves to visible light, X-rays and gamma rays).
Once the propagation of light has been discussed and understood in the context of Electromagnetism, you will study the consequences of the constant velocity of light in the context of Einstein’s theory of Special Relativity. The theory will be applied to understanding concepts such as time dilation and event horizon.
You'll acquire a deeper understanding of highly formalised theories, and how these are powerful tools to solve a diverse range of problems. You'll also develop your skills for formal reasoning and fundamental mathematical tools (vector fields in particular), applying these to solve problems in the context of the systems studied in the module and will contribute to the skills set of a physicist for your future career.
This module builds on the introduction to astronomy you will have learned in earlier stages of your degree. You'll enhance your knowledge of astrophysics through the study of the theory, formalism and fundamental principles, developing a rigorous grounding in observational, computational and theoretical aspects of astrophysics.
In particular, you'll study topics such as properties of galaxies and stars, the detection of planets outside the solar system, and CCD cameras. You will also have the opportunity to take part in observations with the Beacon Observatory, getting hands on in exploring the universe.
How can we use space to benefit our society on Earth and to explore our solar system and beyond? On this module you'll discuss the design and operations of spacecraft, including satellites, to explore answers to these questions. We'll introduce the harsh environment of space, the hazards posed to spacecraft, and how we design spacecraft to overcome these challenges. You'll also develop your understanding of the major subsystems of a spacecraft through the study of the theory, formalism and fundamental principles, as well as the framework to understand spacecraft trajectories and orbits.
As humanity seeks to both explore and establish bases beyond Earth you'll consider the additional scientific and technical challenges of crewed space flight and establishing extraterrestrial habitats. The course also discusses how space missions are designed, funded and managed. Join the next generation of physicists looking to journey further into the cosmos and unlock the secrets of the universe.
You’ll take more advanced and specialised modules and conduct open-ended laboratory investigations.
All modern technologies rely on the use of light in some way or another, which makes understanding light absolutely essential. This module provides you with an immersive experience, allowing you to discover fundamental and contemporary concepts that shape our understanding of how light interacts with matter. You'll explore the practical applications of optics and photonics in various fields, such as telecommunications, medicine, manufacturing, and computing, giving you experience aligned with a range of potential careers.
Throughout the module, you'll acquire knowledge and skills in designing and analysing optical systems, becoming proficient in using tools such as lasers and fibre optics and enhancing your problem-solving skills. In doing so, you'll understand how your developing expertise can be applied in practice, including in multi-disciplinary or multi-professional contexts, to make a positive difference to the world around you.
Explore the classic theory of thermodynamics and how the thermal properties of physical objects can be described in terms of their microscopic properties through the application of statistical mechanics. You'll learn the three laws of thermodynamics and how to use them to understand physical phenomena, such as the conversion of heat into work in an engine or the cooling cycle in a refrigerator.
You'll learn how to derive measurable, bulk properties such as temperature, heat capacity, entropy or magnetisation from the behaviour of the microscopic components in a gas or a paramagnet. Statistical mechanics bridges the gap between the microscopic and macroscopic description of the physical world; you'll apply theoretical principles, alongside a range of mathematical skills, to contemporary issues such as how heat pumps work, the effect of temperature on defects in a crystalline solid, heat capacity due to electrons in a metal, to address real-world problems and potential solutions.
Building on your studies in observational astronomy, this module provides a balanced and rigorous course in astrophysics for BSc students. You'll develop and enhance your knowledge of astrophysics through the study of the theory, formalism, and fundamental principles.
You'll also delve into the equations describing the internal structure of stars, energy transport mechanisms, nuclear fusion processes, and the evolution of stars off the main sequence. The second half of the module explores topics such as high-redshift galaxies, galaxy clusters, and active galactic nuclei (AGN), general relativity, cosmological principles, the age and stages of the universe, dark matter, dark energy, and the cosmic microwave background.
You'll finish the module having embarked on a thrilling journey through the cosmos, equipped with essential skills and understanding needed for astronomy at a professional level and be on a firm footing should you wish to pursue further studies in astrophysics at MPhys level and beyond.
If you want to explore beyond earth, your the first step is our solar system. You'll get to grips with our closest neighbors, the composition of the Sun and planets will be placed in the context of the current understanding of the evolution of the Solar System. You'll also study solar terrestrial physics, learning how interactions between the Sun and Earth affect life on our planet. You will then move on to look at the terrestrial planets and the processes that have shaped them, learning first about the Earth before considering Mars, Mercury and Venus.
By the end of this module, you'll have achieved a solid understanding of the interplay of the Sun and its planetary system, and be equipped with analytical skills and interdisciplinary knowledge applicable to fields including not only planetary science but also remote sensing, environmental and earth science and space exploration.
Explore the constituents of matter and how the structured arrangement of atoms in a solid gives rise to their properties. You'll start by looking at the structure and properties of the nucleus, as well as its stability and fission and fusion processes. You'll then study how the regular arrangement of atoms in a lattice gives rise to crystalline solids and proceed to investigate how the behaviour of electrons in crystals is responsible for many of the properties we find in the materials driving technology (such as metals, semiconductors, magnetic materials). The theoretical principles taught in the lectures, as well as a range of mathematical skills, will be applied to solving problems, including those related to electronics and optoelectronic devices.
How are data processing and analysis techniques applied to astronomical data from telescopes? You'll learn how telescopes and CCD cameras work, and how they process astronomical images and spectra. You'll also apply a range of data analysis and machine learning techniques using software packages.
As part of your project work, you can engage in the scientific interpretation of images and spectra of astronomical objects or numerical modelling results. You'll get to take part in at least two observing nights with our Beacon Observatory. This on-campus facility offers hands-on astronomical experience with a research-grade dome and telescope, enhancing the quality of your degree experience and better preparing you for a career in the space and astronomy sector.
This module provides a practical underpinning to the theoretical astrophysics work in other modules. Working through the experiments provided, using authentic data, will leave you with a richer appreciation and understanding of this subject matter, equipping you with the skills to succeed as working astronomers that are, in addition, transferable to many other professional disciplines.
Teaching is by lectures, practical classes, tutorials and workshops. You have an average of nine one-hour lectures, one or two days of practical or project work and a number of workshops each week. The practical modules include specific study skills in physics and general communication skills.
Assessment is by written examinations at the end of each year and by continuous assessment of practical classes and other written assignments. Your final degree result is made up of a combined mark from the Stage 2 and 3 assessments and your placement year, with maximum weight applied to the final stage.
For a student studying full time, each academic year of the programme will comprise 1200 learning hours which include both direct contact hours and private study hours. The precise breakdown of hours will be subject dependent and will vary according to modules.
Methods of assessment will vary according to subject specialism and individual modules.
Please refer to the individual module details under Course Structure.
For programme aims and learning outcomes please see the programme specification.
You’ll graduate with an excellent grounding in scientific knowledge and extensive laboratory experience, as well as a toolbox of transferable skills highly sought after by employers. These include excellent communication and problem-solving skills; analytical thinking; effective time management; and the ability to work independently or as part of a team. Our graduates have gone on to work for employers such as:
Read some of their stories and find out about the range of support and extra opportunities available to further your career potential.
For students continuing on this programme, fees will increase year on year by no more than RPI + 3% in each academic year of study except where regulated.*
The University will assess your fee status as part of the application process. If you are uncertain about your fee status you may wish to seek advice from UKCISA before applying.
For details of when and how to pay fees and charges, please see our Student Finance Guide.
Find out more about accommodation and living costs, plus general additional costs that you may pay when studying at Kent.
Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. See our funding page for more details.
We have a range of subject-specific awards and scholarships for academic, sporting and musical achievement.
Next steps
If you are from the UK or Ireland, you must apply for this course through UCAS. If you are not from the UK or Ireland, you can apply through UCAS or directly on our website if you have never used UCAS and you do not intend to use UCAS in the future.
We welcome applications from students all around the world with a wide range of international qualifications.
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