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Taking advantage of generations of terrestrial and space-based instruments, the Master of Astronomy and Astrophysics trains students to study the origin, structure, and evolution of planets, stars, star systems, and the universe itself.
About the programme
The Master of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics is a two-year programme consisting of 120 ECTS credits.
First year: theoretical courses provide a solid foundation for further study, while you develop your research skills by undertaking a research project.
Second year: you work on your master's thesis, as front-line research typically conducted within one of the research groups. Attention is devoted to the analysis and astrophysical interpretation of data and models, as well as to technological aspects of international astronomical research.
Astronomical research and education has a distinct international and multidisciplinary character. The emphasis is on developing and applying research methodologies to collect, analyse and interpret astronomical observations in the context of astrophysics. Technological as well as computational and theoretical aspects are extensively covered. Thanks to new generations of instruments on the Earth's surface and in space, you can adequately study the origin, structure and evolution of planets, stars, galaxies and the universe. Astronomy therefore retains a central place in international fundamental research.
Upon successful completion of this programme, you will have acquired:
a thorough insight into various aspects of astronomy
a developed understanding of the various sciences contributing to astronomy
a critical research attitude
the ability to define and formulate strategies to study complex questions
the ability to integrate technological developments into basic research
the ability to construct simple numeric and physical-mathematical models to study data within a theoretical framework
Programme strengths
KU Leuven situates itself as a leader in astronomical research in Flanders, among other things by being the only Flemish university to offer a full master's degree in astronomy. The master programme has an international focus and attracts students from many different countries
Thanks to an extensive network of national and international collaborations, our researchers have access to large-scale modern instruments within the framework of the European Southern Observatory (ESO) and the European Space Agency (ESA). Moreover, thanks to KU Leuven, Flanders has its own professional Mercator telescope at the La Palma International Observatory, which master students can use during their training. Large scale numerical models in the context of projects or the master thesis can be simulated on the KU Leuven Genius supercomputer with more than 8000 cores
You obtain a broad formation in astronomy and astrophysics with strong attention to transferable skills and personal development. The curriculum is research oriented and the master’s thesis is always well embedded into the actual research of the research groups at the Institute of Astronomy.
Career perspectives
Many astronomers conduct research through a doctoral program at local and international universities, or scientific institutions such as the Royal Observatory of Belgium and the Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy. International organisations such as ESO and ESA can also become your employer.
In addition, as an astronomer you will also find your way in the computer science sector, the image processing and visualisation sector, telecommunications, air traffic control, science journalism, education ...
For the most recent – and only official – information on tuition fees, please check our webpage.
Taking advantage of generations of terrestrial and space-based instruments, the Master of Astronomy and Astrophysics trains students to study the origin, structure, and evolution of planets, stars, star systems, and the universe itself.
About the programme
The Master of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics is a two-year programme consisting of 120 ECTS credits.
First year: theoretical courses provide a solid foundation for further study, while you develop your research skills by undertaking a research project.
Second year: you work on your master's thesis, as front-line research typically conducted within one of the research groups. Attention is devoted to the analysis and astrophysical interpretation of data and models, as well as to technological aspects of international astronomical research.
Astronomical research and education has a distinct international and multidisciplinary character. The emphasis is on developing and applying research methodologies to collect, analyse and interpret astronomical observations in the context of astrophysics. Technological as well as computational and theoretical aspects are extensively covered. Thanks to new generations of instruments on the Earth's surface and in space, you can adequately study the origin, structure and evolution of planets, stars, galaxies and the universe. Astronomy therefore retains a central place in international fundamental research.
Upon successful completion of this programme, you will have acquired:
a thorough insight into various aspects of astronomy
a developed understanding of the various sciences contributing to astronomy
a critical research attitude
the ability to define and formulate strategies to study complex questions
the ability to integrate technological developments into basic research
the ability to construct simple numeric and physical-mathematical models to study data within a theoretical framework
Programme strengths
KU Leuven situates itself as a leader in astronomical research in Flanders, among other things by being the only Flemish university to offer a full master's degree in astronomy. The master programme has an international focus and attracts students from many different countries
Thanks to an extensive network of national and international collaborations, our researchers have access to large-scale modern instruments within the framework of the European Southern Observatory (ESO) and the European Space Agency (ESA). Moreover, thanks to KU Leuven, Flanders has its own professional Mercator telescope at the La Palma International Observatory, which master students can use during their training. Large scale numerical models in the context of projects or the master thesis can be simulated on the KU Leuven Genius supercomputer with more than 8000 cores
You obtain a broad formation in astronomy and astrophysics with strong attention to transferable skills and personal development. The curriculum is research oriented and the master’s thesis is always well embedded into the actual research of the research groups at the Institute of Astronomy.
Career perspectives
Many astronomers conduct research through a doctoral program at local and international universities, or scientific institutions such as the Royal Observatory of Belgium and the Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy. International organisations such as ESO and ESA can also become your employer.
In addition, as an astronomer you will also find your way in the computer science sector, the image processing and visualisation sector, telecommunications, air traffic control, science journalism, education ...
For the most recent – and only official – information on tuition fees, please check our webpage.
To be eligible for the Master of Astronomy and Astrophysics, you must have obtained an academic bachelor’s degree in the field of physics or mathematics.
Bachelor of Engineering Science
Bachelor of Bio-Engineering Science
Bachelor of Chemistry
Bachelor of Physics
Bachelor of Mathematics, Minor Subject Physics
For the most recent – and only official – information on the admission requirements, please check our webpage.
2 Years
Sep
Domestic
1,157 EUR
International
7,771 EUR
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
Master of Astronomy and Astrophysics
KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
# 73QS Subject Rankings
24 monthsProgramme duration
7,771 EURTuition Fee/year
Physics and AstronomyMain Subject Area
Programme overview
Main Subject
Physics and Astronomy
Degree
MSc
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
Master of Astronomy and Astrophysics
Taking advantage of generations of terrestrial and space-based instruments, the Master of Astronomy and Astrophysics trains students to study the origin, structure, and evolution of planets, stars, star systems, and the universe itself.
About the programme
The Master of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics is a two-year programme consisting of 120 ECTS credits.
- First year: theoretical courses provide a solid foundation for further study, while you develop your research skills by undertaking a research project.
- Second year: you work on your master's thesis, as front-line research typically conducted within one of the research groups. Attention is devoted to the analysis and astrophysical interpretation of data and models, as well as to technological aspects of international astronomical research.
Astronomical research and education has a distinct international and multidisciplinary character. The emphasis is on developing and applying research methodologies to collect, analyse and interpret astronomical observations in the context of astrophysics. Technological as well as computational and theoretical aspects are extensively covered. Thanks to new generations of instruments on the Earth's surface and in space, you can adequately study the origin, structure and evolution of planets, stars, galaxies and the universe. Astronomy therefore retains a central place in international fundamental research.Upon successful completion of this programme, you will have acquired:
- a thorough insight into various aspects of astronomy
- a developed understanding of the various sciences contributing to astronomy
- a critical research attitude
- the ability to define and formulate strategies to study complex questions
- the ability to integrate technological developments into basic research
- the ability to construct simple numeric and physical-mathematical models to study data within a theoretical framework
Programme strengthsKU Leuven situates itself as a leader in astronomical research in Flanders, among other things by being the only Flemish university to offer a full master's degree in astronomy. The master programme has an international focus and attracts students from many different countries
Thanks to an extensive network of national and international collaborations, our researchers have access to large-scale modern instruments within the framework of the European Southern Observatory (ESO) and the European Space Agency (ESA). Moreover, thanks to KU Leuven, Flanders has its own professional Mercator telescope at the La Palma International Observatory, which master students can use during their training. Large scale numerical models in the context of projects or the master thesis can be simulated on the KU Leuven Genius supercomputer with more than 8000 cores
You obtain a broad formation in astronomy and astrophysics with strong attention to transferable skills and personal development. The curriculum is research oriented and the master’s thesis is always well embedded into the actual research of the research groups at the Institute of Astronomy.
Career perspectives
Many astronomers conduct research through a doctoral program at local and international universities, or scientific institutions such as the Royal Observatory of Belgium and the Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy. International organisations such as ESO and ESA can also become your employer.
In addition, as an astronomer you will also find your way in the computer science sector, the image processing and visualisation sector, telecommunications, air traffic control, science journalism, education ...
For the most recent – and only official – information on tuition fees, please check our webpage.
Programme overview
Main Subject
Physics and Astronomy
Degree
MSc
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
Master of Astronomy and Astrophysics
Taking advantage of generations of terrestrial and space-based instruments, the Master of Astronomy and Astrophysics trains students to study the origin, structure, and evolution of planets, stars, star systems, and the universe itself.
About the programme
The Master of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics is a two-year programme consisting of 120 ECTS credits.
- First year: theoretical courses provide a solid foundation for further study, while you develop your research skills by undertaking a research project.
- Second year: you work on your master's thesis, as front-line research typically conducted within one of the research groups. Attention is devoted to the analysis and astrophysical interpretation of data and models, as well as to technological aspects of international astronomical research.
Astronomical research and education has a distinct international and multidisciplinary character. The emphasis is on developing and applying research methodologies to collect, analyse and interpret astronomical observations in the context of astrophysics. Technological as well as computational and theoretical aspects are extensively covered. Thanks to new generations of instruments on the Earth's surface and in space, you can adequately study the origin, structure and evolution of planets, stars, galaxies and the universe. Astronomy therefore retains a central place in international fundamental research.Upon successful completion of this programme, you will have acquired:
- a thorough insight into various aspects of astronomy
- a developed understanding of the various sciences contributing to astronomy
- a critical research attitude
- the ability to define and formulate strategies to study complex questions
- the ability to integrate technological developments into basic research
- the ability to construct simple numeric and physical-mathematical models to study data within a theoretical framework
Programme strengthsKU Leuven situates itself as a leader in astronomical research in Flanders, among other things by being the only Flemish university to offer a full master's degree in astronomy. The master programme has an international focus and attracts students from many different countries
Thanks to an extensive network of national and international collaborations, our researchers have access to large-scale modern instruments within the framework of the European Southern Observatory (ESO) and the European Space Agency (ESA). Moreover, thanks to KU Leuven, Flanders has its own professional Mercator telescope at the La Palma International Observatory, which master students can use during their training. Large scale numerical models in the context of projects or the master thesis can be simulated on the KU Leuven Genius supercomputer with more than 8000 cores
You obtain a broad formation in astronomy and astrophysics with strong attention to transferable skills and personal development. The curriculum is research oriented and the master’s thesis is always well embedded into the actual research of the research groups at the Institute of Astronomy.
Career perspectives
Many astronomers conduct research through a doctoral program at local and international universities, or scientific institutions such as the Royal Observatory of Belgium and the Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy. International organisations such as ESO and ESA can also become your employer.
In addition, as an astronomer you will also find your way in the computer science sector, the image processing and visualisation sector, telecommunications, air traffic control, science journalism, education ...
For the most recent – and only official – information on tuition fees, please check our webpage.
Brochures
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements
To be eligible for the Master of Astronomy and Astrophysics, you must have obtained an academic bachelor’s degree in the field of physics or mathematics.
- Bachelor of Engineering Science
- Bachelor of Bio-Engineering Science
- Bachelor of Chemistry
- Bachelor of Physics
- Bachelor of Mathematics, Minor Subject Physics
For the most recent – and only official – information on the admission requirements, please check our webpage.Domestic
International
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
How to get a full scholarship
Looking for a fully-funded scholarship to see you into university? Find out how to boost your chances of getting one.
Scholarships to study abroad
Find scholarships to study abroad with our lists of international scholarships – categorized by country, by subject, and by type of student.
Scholarship Applications: Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all your questions about scholarship applications, including tips on how to find scholarships and chances of success.
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