Astronomy, Space Science and Astrophysics BSc (Hons)

This course will give you the skills to acquire, understand and interpret observations of the Universe as well as gain an awareness of the physical nature of bodies and processes in space, within the solar system, through our own galaxy and out across the Universe. Astronomy, space science and astrophysics allow us to see the Universe and our place in it. The subjects continually evolve and change every year based on discoveries by researchers around the world. We aim to equip you with the skills to understand these phenomena and to qualify you for a range of career pathways.On this programme, you get involved with real space missions from ESA and NASA, and can work on Hubble Telescope data and images from giant telescopes or work with our own Beacon Observatory. The programme includes specialised modules such as spacecraft design and operations, data analysis in astronomy and planetary science and "the Sun, the Earth and Mars". The foundations of the course include getting to grips with the broad knowledge base on which physical science is built, including electricity, light and mechanics. While at Kent you’ll have access to our fantastic facilities including optical spectrum analysers, two-stage light gas gun for impact studies and on-campus Beacon Observatory.The School has a specialist employer engagement officer and through our membership of the South East Physics Network (SEPNet) we can help you with valuable internship and training opportunities. In previous years our students have trained at the European Space Agency and worked in engineering and research companies on summer placements. We offer a range of Physics with Astrophysics courses - which are all accredited by the Institute of Physics (IoP) - and there’s flexibility to move between our range of Physics, Physics with Astrophysics and Astronomy, Space Science and Astrophysics degrees up until the end of the first year.