Physics and Astronomy
Physics is a key subject for understanding the world and universe. While there is much that is known, there is still a great deal to be explored. Physics goes all the way from abstract theoretical physics to experimental investigations that can be directly applied to new technologies.
Astrophysics applies the laws of physics and chemistry to study the physical nature of stars and celestial bodies. At St Andrews, students have the opportunity to study and research a wide variety of astrophysics topics including star formation, galaxy evolution, dark matter and much more. With access to the University's own observatory, students are able to get a close-up view of our magnificent universe.
Undergraduate courses in Physics and Astrophysics seek to guide students to gain a solid grounding in core physics. This grounding is used in exploring practical, theoretical, and computational aspects of the subject. There can be significant interaction with the School's research teams in this process.
The specialist postgraduate MSc programmes also link with research activities, including laser physics, optoelectronics, and astrophysics, among others.
There is a strong academic community in the School, taking in both staff and students. This is helped by much of the teaching and research being carried out in the same building. The research in the School benefits students in many ways, not least by the possibility of access to state-of-the-art equipment for final-year research projects.