Astronomy

Astronomy, which is the oldest natural science, studies cosmic objects, or everything which is located outside the Earth’s atmosphere. Astronomy is conventionally divided into practical (or observational) astronomy, which aim is searching and exploring certain cosmic objects (galaxies, stars, planets, comets, etc), and theoretical (research) astronomy, which studies the nature and patterns of cosmic phenomena.

Sometimes Astronomy is taught as a specialization of Physics sciences, but a lot of universities around the world host Astronomy departments and provide specialized study programs in Astronomy.

Program structure

Astronomy degree usually combines theory and observation. Since Astronomy degrees are interdisciplinary, students get knowledge in physics, mathematics, chemistry and other natural sciences.

Most universities, for example, University of Edinburgh, encourage students to spend a year studying and training abroad. Various internships in government and private institutions are also included in Astronomy curricula.

An undergraduate degree can be completed with final coursework or/and final exams.

The usual length of an undergraduate study program is from three to four years, graduate study program - from one to two years. Undergraduate degree is usually called BSc (Bachelor of Science), graduate degree - MSc (Master of Science) or MPhys (Master of Physics).

Entry requirements for Astronomy applicants

Entry requirements for Astronomy applicants depend on the chosen study program, institution and country. Usually applicants should demonstrate promising knowledge background in Physics and Mathematics - high GPA scores or just high grades from school are required. Sometimes high scores in Chemistry and Biology are also required.

Some universities offer an opportunity of applying directly for the second year of study, if applicants demonstrate a high academic level.

Applicants should also show a deep interest in Astronomy.

Since most of the study programs in Astronomy you can find on our website are taught in English, applicants should demonstrate proficiency in English. If English is not a mother tongue of applicants, they should provide the results of TOEFL, IELTS or other equivalent language test.

Those who apply for a study program in foreign university need to meet special visa requirements for overseas students. Universities sometimes help applicants to get a student visa.

Best Universities

According to QS Top Universities Ranking by Subject 2016-2107, the list of world leading institutions specialized on Physics and Astronomy includes Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvard University, Stanford University, University of Cambridge, University of California - Berkeley, University of Oxford, California University of Technology. Most world leading technical universities are located in the USA and UK. All the necessary information about these universities, including requirements for applicants, can be found on our website.