Master's Programme in Astronomy and Astrophysics
Carina nebula. Image credit: ESO/T. Preibisch
Astronomers seek to understand phenomena and physical processes we observe in the Universe. In order to do this, you will learn on various fields of physics to create a complete picture of the processes at work and how they interact. This requires you to learn on a wide array of knowledge, developing your skills to solve complex problems. Together with our researchers, you will explore fundamental laws of radiation and study topics from planet formation to the evolution of galaxies. In the practical courses you will learn to plan and execute astronomical observations, and gain hands-on experience using research telescopes.
The program comprises two years of full-time studies (120 ECTS credits). You will apply your knowledge of physics to key astronomical fields covered by the mandatory and elective courses, connected to the research expertise at our department. The free-choice courses give you the possibility to widen your studies to match your needs and interests, from statistics and machine learning to project management. Students without sufficient knowledge in astronomy from their BSc studies will replace free-choice master courses with introduction courses at bachelor level. The bachelor level courses that should be coverd is Astrophysical Spectra (7.5 ECTS credits), Cosmology (7.5 ECTS credits), and Stellar Structure and Evolution (7.5 ECTS credits). The final component of your studies is a thesis project where you independently plan, perform and report a research project in one of our research groups or at a company.
Mandatory courses:
- Astrophysical Gas Dynamics, 7.5 cr
- Astrophysics Radiative Processes, 7.5 cr
- Observational Astrophysics I, 7.5 cr
- Final master project, 30 or 45 cr
Elective courses:
Courses at advanced level given at the department, corresponding to at least 30 cr.
Free-choice courses:
Free-choice courses for a total of 37.5 or 22.5 cr depending on the size of the final master project.
Independent project
In the second year, you will do a degree project corresponding to 30 or 45 credits (AS9005 or AS9006). The project concludes the program, and gives you the opportunity to truly apply the skills you have learned to a field of research of your choice. Most of our students choose to do a project in one of our research groups, becoming part of the group and gaining first-hand experience with astrophysical research. For those aiming for a career in industry, the project can be done at a company or other government agency.
The Master’s programme in Astronomy starts during the autumn semester. The application round normally opens in mid-October the preceding year, with a deadline in January. Application is done through www.universityadmissions.se.
When submitting you application make sure you have uploaded all required documents. Read more here: https://www.universityadmissions.se/documents
We at the Department of Astronomy do not require any additional documents such as CV, letter of recommendation or motivation letter. You will be contacted by us if we need further documentation.
The Master’s programme in astronomy is very versatile and you will acquire a broad set of skills that are useful both inside and outside of the academic field. These skills include a good knowledge of physics and information technology, and excellent problem solving skills. This gives you great opportunities on the labour market, or prepares you for doctoral studies. Our alumni not only work in astronomical research but also in insurance analytics, ICT, teaching, data warehouse/software, computer game development, environmental research and have leading positions at companies such as Telia and Facilia.
