MSc by Research

The School offers a one-year MSc by Research programme, allowing you to pursue in-depth research in your chosen area of Physics or Astronomy.

The MSc by Research provides students with advanced research skills, specialized knowledge, and a deep understanding of your chosen field.

We can accept applications in any of our research fields, encompassing the below:

• Astrophysics (based at the beautiful Royal Observatory Edinburgh)
• Condensed Matter and Complex Systems
• Nuclear Physics
• Particle Physics – Experimental
• Particle Physics – Theory

Regardless of the area of study, you will be assigned two supervisors to guide your research projects and identify suitable training and development pathways. You will have access to our cutting-edge facilities and expertise, and be supported by our Graduate School administration team.

The programme is assessed by submission of a 30,000 word dissertation, examined by two subject matter experts.

With an MSc by Research qualification, you will possess the skills, knowledge, and research expertise to proceed to PhD, or a career in research, academia, industry, or the public sector.

How to apply

All applications must be made via the University Degree Finder, at the below link.

Applicants must provide a research proposal, transcripts and degree certificates from previous study where relevant, and two references.

Funding opportunities

At present, the School is unable to provide any funding for fees or stipend for the MSc by Research programme. However, all students will be allocated a £1000 Research and Training Support Grant (RTSG), to support research costs such as conference travel and fees, consumables, costs of training courses, etc.

You can search for scholarship opportunities across the University at the below link.