This course consists of an extended project (either observational or theoretical, worth about a third of the total credit) and a choice of a range of high level specialist courses, most of which are examined in June. The course aims to provide an intellectually stimulating environment in which students have the opportunity to develop their skills and enthusiasms to the best of their potential. Owing to the demanding level of the course and the competition for a limited number of places, applicants should have achieved (or expect to achieve) a very good performance in their undergraduate degree. Although some bursary funding may be available, applicants should expect to arrange their own funding. Students completing the year should have: had experience of a number of areas of astrophysics from a choice of options taken to an advanced level, at which current research can be appreciated in some depth; carried out a substantial research project amounting to about 1/3 of the work in the course; enhanced their communications skills and become well prepared for a career in academic research or one where independent research skills are required. Students experience a number of areas of astrophysics from a choice of options taken to an advanced level, at which current research can be appreciated in some depth. Two thirds of the student's assessment is via examinations and one third is via the research project.