Astrophysics- Need help!

Hi hello, I've applied to study physics with Astrophysics, and I'm stuck in a deadlock- Got all my offers back, and I can't decide between Warwick or Lancaster! I'm quite firm my grades are perfectly fine for either option, so that's not a concern, and I'm fond of the idea of doing postgraduate study, but we'll see how University goes. Any suggestions, things to look out for, that kind of thing? Open to ideas!

Reply 1

DerDracologe

Study Forum Helper

20

Youve got a lot of time to make this decision, wait until youve been to offer holder days and the like later in the academic year

Reply 2

daisyw111

8

100% go to open days and actually see the departments! I've been to Warwick for a conference and it was pretty good, I would say smaller than Glasgow (where I studied physics with astrophysics) but the facilities seemed good and the student life did too, but the student accommodation was expensive if that's a factor.

Most people tend to do a PhD at a different place than their undergrad, so I wouldn't worry too much about that, but from what I've heard a PhD at Warwick is also good. I can't speak about Lancaster as I haven't been there before.

Generally what I would say is important to look at is ofc affordability, no point going somewhere you'll be stressing yourself at and living off instant noodles. Definitely also what area of physics they specialise in and if it interests you. As someone who is currently trying to find a job in industry, I'd say a course with a placement year is also really really good if you want to go down that path. Class size is also a good thing to try find out, at Glasgow we had insanely large class sizes which wasn't great, it was tricky to get to know your lecturers and network.

Good luck and all the best

Reply 3

UoW Haiming

Official Rep

8

Original post

by JustLawliet

Hi hello, I've applied to study physics with Astrophysics, and I'm stuck in a deadlock- Got all my offers back, and I can't decide between Warwick or Lancaster! I'm quite firm my grades are perfectly fine for either option, so that's not a concern, and I'm fond of the idea of doing postgraduate study, but we'll see how University goes. Any suggestions, things to look out for, that kind of thing? Open to ideas!

If you are considering Warwick, a lot of students choose the Physics with Astrophysics course because the department is very research-active and the teaching links quite closely to ongoing projects. The facilities are modern, and you get early exposure to computational and analytical skills, which is useful if you are thinking about postgraduate study later on.

Campus life is also a big part of the experience here. Everything is in one place, so it’s quite easy to settle in, join societies and meet people from different subjects.

If you are someone who enjoys a structured course with strong support and a lot of opportunities to get involved in research, Warwick is a good environment for that. It mostly depends on what kind of setting you feel happiest in, but many Physics students really enjoy the community here.

Reply 4

Lancaster Student Ambassador

Official Rep

18

Original post

by JustLawliet

Hi hello, I've applied to study physics with Astrophysics, and I'm stuck in a deadlock- Got all my offers back, and I can't decide between Warwick or Lancaster! I'm quite firm my grades are perfectly fine for either option, so that's not a concern, and I'm fond of the idea of doing postgraduate study, but we'll see how University goes. Any suggestions, things to look out for, that kind of thing? Open to ideas!

Hi there

Congratulations on your offers!! We love to hear that you are considering Lancaster 🦆🌹

I would highly recommend that you visit the campus for both Universities as well as attend an offer holder day to really get a feel of what it's like to be a student there. Regarding post-graduate studies, staying at your Undergraduate university can be an option, but it is also common for students to attend a different institution based on where their interests lie and which curriculum speaks to them.

Here are some things to think about before you make up your mind:

1.

Location: If you prefer a rural setting with lots of nature nearby, Lancaster would be great, but not if you prefer the big city vibes.

2.

Cost of Living: As a whole, Lancaster is fairly affordable to live in. For me, £50 is enough for groceries weekly as well as the odd sweet treat/takeaway. Our campus is very walkable and there is a student bus pass available at a discounted rate.

3.

Societies are extracurriculars: We have over 160 societies here at Lancaster which you can find our more about here: Groups @ Lancaster Students' Union which includes an astronomy society!
Astronomy Society (LUAstroSoc) @ Lancaster Students' Union

I hope this helps! If you have any more questions I'd be happy to assist :smile:

Best Wishes,
Jade Year 3 MBChB
Student Ambassador

Reply 5

megmac4066

1

Could I ask if you got offers to other unis too please? TIA!

Astrophysics- Need help!

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