Why Study Physics or Astronomy?

• The basis of our understanding of the Universe and reveals, through research, the fundamental physical processes within it.
  
  
• A means of fulfilling the human desire to find out how things work, a research base for science and technology which is second to none and a basis for much modern technology and engineering.
  
  

It is certainly the most fascinating subject and provides the richest research environment of all. Data and images are necessary to develop the new ideas and concepts behind present day thinking in the subject: from atomic beam and electron microscopes to the Hubble Space Telescope and radio telescopes. Such data and the images it creates are absolutely essential to understand the Universe today.

When combined with applications through design and technology, physics forms the basis of much of what we refer to as engineering. So it is much more than a science, it forms the most important basis for the development of new technology. The successful creativity and innovation require a pretty good understanding of the subject to bring new technology to its full potential. Such an understanding includes the principles of physics as well as those of existing technology.

In good proportion of universities you can take degrees in Physics, Astronomy or Astrophysics. Alternatively you can often take them in combination with other subjects either as a joint honours programme or within a combined studies scheme where a third subject is often involved - at least in year 1. Because both physics and astronomy require a good understanding of mathematics, maths should be taken alongside either physics or astronomy during the first year and, when appropriate, in subsequent years.

What is the difference between astronomy and astrophysics? The former, requires you to gain an insight to the universe largely through observing and using advanced astronomical techniques to produce images through the use of telescopes. So does the latter, but it is the physics of the interpretation of data and images so obtained which is given top priority.

Generally speaking in most universities in the U.K, full-time BSc degrees are normally completed within three years. There are other BSc degrees offered for four years with the third year being a Sandwich placement, a Year in North America or a Year in Europe. The final year is then taken in Year 4.

The final year of most physics degrees contains a project that enables you to pursue a specialised investigation. In the case of the MPhys degree this is normally a major project designed to equip you for a career in research.

Of course, for those in employment or who have other commitments, such as parents looking after children at home, it is possible to obtain a physics degree by part-time study over a longer period.

Whatever you decide to take at University, do not neglect the joys, delights and satisfaction that taking a degree in physics, astronomy or astrophysics can give you.


The Author: Jonathan Ling, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Hertfordshire

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