
Overview
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The Master of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics is a two-year programme consisting of 120 ECTS credits. In the first year, theoretical courses provide a solid foundation for further study, while you develop your research skills by undertaking a research project. In the 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 ...
Get more details
Visit programme websiteProgramme Structure
Courses include:
- Research Projects
- Stellar Structure and Evolution
- Galaxies and Cosmology
- Observational Techniques in Astronomy
- Radiation Processes in Astronomy
- Observational Astrophysics: Proposal Preparation
- Research Projects in Theoretical Astrophysics
- Research School in Observational Astronomy
Check out the full curriculum
Visit programme websiteKey information
Duration
- Full-time
- 24 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting
- Apply before , EEA/EU
-
- non-EEA Deadline: 1 March
Language
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Credits
Delivered
Campus Location
- Leuven, Belgium
Disciplines
Physics Mathematics Astronomy & Space Sciences View 14 other Masters in Physics in BelgiumExplore more key information
Visit programme websiteWhat students do after studying
Academic requirements
We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.
English requirements
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Other requirements
General requirements
- For the most recent – and only official – information on the admission requirements, please check our webpage.
Student insurance
Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items, so make sure your student insurance ticks all the following:
- Additional medical costs (i.e. dental)
- Repatriation, if something happens to you or your family
- Liability
- Home contents and baggage
- Accidents
- Legal aid
We partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.
Get your student insurance nowStarting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.
Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at KU Leuven and/or in Belgium, please visit Student Insurance Portal.
Make sure you meet all requirements
Visit programme websiteTuition Fee
-
International
7771 EUR/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 7771 EUR per year during 24 months. -
EU/EEA
1157 EUR/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 1157 EUR per year during 24 months.
Tuition Fee NON-EEA - 7771.1 EUR
Living costs for Leuven
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
Check for any work restrictions
Visit programme websiteIn order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.
Scholarships Information
Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Astronomy and Astrophysics.
Available Scholarships
You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.
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