Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Postgraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2026-2027

Module PHYS51545: Astrophysics

Department: Physics

PHYS51545: Astrophysics

Type Tied Level 5 Credits 45 Availability Available in 2026/2027 Module Cap None.
Tied to G5T309

Prerequisites

    Corequisites

    • PHYS51915 Core Ia: Introduction to Machine Learning and Statistics and PHYS52015 Core Ib: Introduction to Scientific and High-performance Computing

    Excluded Combination of Modules

      Aims

      • Introduction to the basic research skills needed by postgraduate research students; develop general background.

      Content

      • This module teaches you state-of-the-art research and science across a broad range of astrophysics, from stellar populations to galaxy formation and high-energy astrophysics.

      Learning Outcomes

      Subject-specific Knowledge:
      • Basic computing, accessing databases, scripts, presentation skills, specific research background.
      Subject-specific Skills:
      • Basic computing
      Key Skills:
      • Presentation skills

      Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

        Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

        Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours Attendance Monitored
        Lectures 94 3 per week 60 minutes 94
        Preparation and Reading 356
        Total 450

        Summative Assessment

        Component: Coursework Component Weighting: 100%
        Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
        Exercise 25%
        Exercise 25%
        Exercise 25%
        Exercise 25%

        Formative Assessment:

        Through unmarked homework and feedback on the coursework


        Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.