Studying a Masters Degree in Astronomy

Masters degree in astronomy

From the earliest times astronomy has influenced how we have viewed our world; it has informed our ability to navigate oceans, grow crops and also addressed more existential questions. In modern society it can still teach us about the progression of the universe and our place in it.

When you enrol on a Masters in Astronomy your time may be divided equally between taught sessions delivered by your tutors, and a self-motivated research project. Although there will be a supervisor to check over the general direction and standard of your research project, you will ultimately responsible for its content and prompt submission. The project can form the basis of further research when you leave; at this level of study many students polish their work after graduating and have it published in a scientific journal.

Students on an astronomy masters are encouraged to work independently and be mindful of their educational progress, with access to the facilities at the university, plus those of any nearby observatories that the university is linked with. A masters degree in astronomy will provide students with practical knowledge of how scientists in the field use state of the art equipment to gather data, and then see how this information enriches the entire astronomical community and society as a whole.

Find postgraduate programs in ASTRONOMY

Why study a masters in astronomy?

As an astronomy student you’ll be part of a thriving intellectual environment and gain a broad knowledge of astronomical research. You will also be able to focus your efforts on areas which interest you and build upon your written and spoken skills. Contact with your peer group, the faculty leaders, practicing astronomers and workplace experts will train you to become a professional scientist. Graduate programs in astronomy will ready you for taking up a place in global astronomical research if that is your career goal, or continuing with an in-depth project at PhD level.

Postgraduate astronomy study options

There are various ways for students to study astronomy in the UK and Europe – from distance learning to part-time study or even travelling to study internationally for some semesters, depending on the course and university.

In the UK, there are many places to learn Astronomy, such as the University of Leicester, which offers an MPhil in Physics and Astronomy for two years (full time) and four years (part time). Alternatively, the University of Sussex offers its Masters in Astronomy for one year of full-time learning, or two years of part-time studying.

In Europe, the University of Amsterdam offer an amazing Astronomy and Astrophysics course at its Faculty of Science department. On this course students will master advanced methods and search for fundamental answers in our planetary scope and beyond for two years.

Astronomy study modules

Masters degrees in astronomy will cover different modules, but there are usually four mandatory units:

Astrophysics
Galaxies
The universe
Cosmology

There will also be two or more optional units in other rerlevant areas – these are likley to include:

Data analysis techniques
General relativity
Advanced particle physics

Most modules will be delivered via a combination of lectures and seminars.

Entry requirements for a masters in astronomy

Most universities will ask for a lower second-class honours degree, or 2.2, as a minimum, and it should be in an engineering or scientific discipline. If you are intending to study in the UK or Europe from overseas, then the international equivalent is acceptable.

Overseas students will also have to prove they are skilled enough in both written and spoken English to succeed on a masters course. You should have an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with subtest results of 5.5 or above. For the TOEFL a score of 90 and sub test scores of 22 will be required. However, you should bear in mind that your certificate becomes invalid after two years and it must be in date when your course commences.

Student case study

Astronomy student case study The study of astronomy can give us the ability to ask questions about our place in the universe and the ways in which our world is connected to the stars around us. A masters degree in the subject gives students a chance to pursue answers and develop their knowledge along the way. Constantinos Demetroullas studied and MSc in Astronomy and Astrophysics at the University of Manchester, he explains: “I am intrigued by the fact that we are trying to understand an unknown form of substance called 'dark matter', and working on big questions; such as what the universe is made of, how it looked in its early stages, and how it will look a billion years from now.”

Career and research opportunities

Students who have graduated with a masters degree in astronomy have career opportunities on both a national and international scale.

A masters degree in astronomy will provide students with quantitative skills, critical thinking ability, data analysis experience and coding skills. Graduates of this course will be well prepared for careers in science, technology, research and data-driven industries.

Career paths include: