colleges that offer phd in astronomy

2100 accredited US Universities for Graduate Programs. 400+ specializations.

1400 No GRE, GMAT schools for the Master’s program

700+ Graduate scholarships totaling $3.5 mm

Doctoral / PHD Programs in Astronomy

39 universities offer graduate PHD program in Astronomy

Princeton University

Princeton University hosts one of the top graduate programs in astronomy and astrophysics in the world. The most recent Assessment of Doctoral Programs by the National Academy of Sciences ranked Princeton as #1 overall, #1 in Research Activity, and #1 in Student Support and Outcomes. Students have a great deal of freedom to pursue research projects using theoretical, computational, and observational approaches. Students work directly with the faculty from the moment they arrive in our lively and congenial Department. They have access to cutting-edge computational facilities, and involvement in many exciting observational projects including the Simons Observatory, the Subaru Hyper-SuprimeCam survey, the Rubin Observatory, and the HAT-PI variability survey.

Graduate Program in Astronomy and Astrophysics

• GRE Required:  Yes
• Research Assistantships:  733
• Teaching Assistantships:  655
• Financial Aid: Register to view the details

Yale University

Advising Guidelines for the Yale Astronomy Graduate Program.

The Astronomy also offers joint programs and opportunities with other departments at Yale and with the Universidad de Chile.

The average time for a Yale Astronomy student to finish a PhD is under six years, roughly a year lower than the national average. We attribute this to the close attention given to students, early research experience, and the excellent resources that Yale Astronomy has to offer.

Last, but not least, Yale and its host city of New Haven offers rich opportunities for cultural, gastronomical and extra-curricular activities. Yale Astronomy Graduate students enjoy spending time with each other both in planned activities, such as the weekly Astronomy Happy Hour, group bike rides, running marathons, and cookouts, as well as other spontaneous get-togethers.

Graduate Program

• Research Assistantships:  1565
• Teaching Assistantships:  1598

Harvard University

The Department of Astronomy offers a rich and varied program of theoretical, observational, and experimental graduate work leading to the PhD in astronomy. Research is carried out at the Harvard College Observatory, which shares buildings and general facilities with the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory. Together, the two observatories constitute the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA): a large and diverse research setting that provides opportunities in nearly every branch of astrophysical work, from atomic physics to cosmology using the full range of techniques from gamma ray detectors through radio antennas.

Over 360 PhD scientists are engaged in work at the CfA, providing students with an unusually wide choice of dissertation topics and stimulating opportunities for both formal and informal learning through courses and seminars. Graduate students at Harvard benefit from this diverse environment, have access to extensive facilities, and pursue their work in a supportive and stimulating setting.

The program of graduate study is designed to make Harvard PhD students first-rate researchers with a broad knowledge of astrophysics and competence in teaching. To do this, we have constructed an advising program and a set of requirements to help students develop their astrophysical understanding, and to carry through a successful thesis in a timely way.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Astronomy

• GRE Required:  No
• Research Assistantships:  864
• Teaching Assistantships:  1388

155 universities offer the Master's program in Astronomy.

Which one best suits your need?

University of Chicago

The PhD in Astrophysics is a year-round, full-time doctoral program on the academic quarter system, which encourages students to explore a range of courses, engage with more faculty, and challenge themselves in a fast-paced and academically rigorous environment.

Today graduate students in the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics have multiple opportunities to engage with our pre-eminent faculty and their research groups on short- or long-term projects to complete pre-candidacy requirements and doctoral theses. Research fields span a wide range, with close integration between theory and experiment, and are enhanced by our connections to the Enrico Fermi Institute, the Departments of Physics and the Geophysical Sciences, and the Kavli Institute for Cosmological Physics at the University of Chicago.

PhD in Astronomy and Astrophysics

• GRE Required:  Register to view the details
• Research Assistantships:  Register to view the details
• Teaching Assistantships:  Register to view the details

University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania Department of Physics and Astronomy is a world-leading institution that generally is regarded as among the very best places for graduate students to obtain a PhD. Graduate students at Penn combine a short term of coursework with independent, original research that forms the basis of their dissertation and typically their first publications. A rich program of seminars and colloquia by invited speakers from across the world supplements what students learn in classes and during their research activities.

Primary research areas include outstanding theoretical and experimental work in both hard and soft condensed matter physics, often done in conjunction with other schools and departments at Penn, with some laboratories located in Penn's Singh Center for Nanotechnology and the Laboratory for Research into the Structure of Matter. Biophysics at Penn is also divided amongst advanced theoretical work and hands-on laboratory work, and encompasses both complex networking theories and some of the exotic optics of biological systems.

The Astrophysics and Cosmology groups explore the structure and evolution of the Universe, perform searches for exoplanets, and study galaxy formation. Efforts in cosmology include theoretical models for the acceleration of the Universe and the properties of dark matter, observations of the structure of the Universe and studies of dark matter using gravitational lensing with the Dark Energy Survey and eventually the Large-aperture Synoptic Survey Telescope, and studies of the cosmic microwave background with telescopes in places like the Chilean Andes and the South Pole.

Physics and Astronomy, PhD

Johns hopkins university.

Graduate programs in physics and astronomy at Johns Hopkins University are among the top programs in the field. Students engage in original research starting in their first semester and have flexibility in choosing their course of research and designing their path through the program. A wide range of research projects—both theoretical and experimental—are available in astrophysics, condensed matter physics, particle physics, and plasma spectroscopy. Graduate students can work toward a PhD in either physics or astronomy and astrophysics. The doctoral students are prepared for careers in physics and astronomy research, teaching, or in applications such as biophysics, space physics, and industrial research.

Graduate students at Johns Hopkins study and work in close collaboration with a world-renowned, award-winning physics and astronomy faculty, whose research is truly global. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, and they are full participants in the vibrant intellectual life of the department. Research leading to the dissertation can be carried out not only within the Department of Physics and Astronomy, but also in collaboration with other research centers. Recent dissertation research has been conducted with members of the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, Space Telescope Science Institute, and the Goddard Space Flight Center.

Graduate Program in Physics & Astronomy

California institute of technology.

The education and training of graduate students toward the doctoral degree is a major emphasis of the Astronomy Department.

An advanced degree in astrophysics at Caltech is contingent upon an extensive research achievement. Students in the program are expected to join a research program, and carry out independent research leading to publications in peer-reviewed journals, as well as a thesis. They must complete a minimum of 9 terms of formal oral research presentations. In their first year, the students must pass a series of six courses in astrophysics and by the end of their second year, also a minimum of four physics or equivalent courses. Each of these examinations includes evaluation of the students' research work and also their mastery of broader facts, concepts and current frontiers of astrophysics. The examining committees read and evaluate the candidates' descriptions of their work, their published and unpublished work, the PhD thesis, and evaluate their performance in the oral examinations.

Graduates of our program are expected to have extensive experience with modern research methods, a broad knowledge of contemporary astronomy and astrophysics, and the ability to perform as independent researchers at the highest intellectual and technical levels.

The Caltech Astronomy graduate program aims to prepare students for creative and productive careers in astrophysical research and to train the next generation of leaders in the field.

The Caltech graduate program strives to be the destination of choice for the brightest and most creative astrophysics students from all backgrounds. Students are also expected to have demonstrated skill in critical thinking and problem solving in the face of uncertainty and incomplete information, for example through success in research projects or project work.

We also encourage applications from students with complementary preparation (e.g., chemistry, computer science, engineering, math), including industry experience. Although preparation in astronomy through coursework and or research can be helpful, this is not required for admission. We recognize that there are many paths to a graduate career in astronomy. The application package includes three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and academic transcripts.

Caltech is a proud member of the Cal-Bridge program. The Cal-Bridge program has the mission of creating opportunities for students of traditionally underrepresented groups to participate and advance in physics, astronomy, computer science, and computer engineering and to increase their numbers in PhD programs in those fields. information here. All Cal-Bridge scholars are guaranteed fee waivers when applying to our graduate program.

In astrophysics, we strive to understand the physical processes that govern the universe, its constituents, and their evolution. We use the apparatus and methodology of physics to gather and interpret data and to conduct theoretical studies. Caltech Astronomy students are embedded in a large and diverse department with interesting talks, seminars, and conferences happening nearly every day. This helps them acquire broad knowledge and good scientific practices. They receive intensive classroom training, including exposure to all aspects of modern astrophysics.

There are six astronomy classes to be completed during the first year of graduate study: Radiative Processes, Structure and Evolution of Stars, Structure and Dynamics of Galaxies, High-Energy Astrophysics, Interstellar Medium, and Cosmology and Galaxy Formation.

During their first or second year, students focusing on observational astronomy also take the Astronomical Measurements and Instrumentation sequence and four courses in physics or another appropriate subject. Theory students, on the other hand, select six classes in physics, mathematics, or other applicable fields. All first-year students participate in Introduction to Modern Research which exposes them to available research opportunities.

As with most graduate departments, Caltech has a qualifying exam. Here, the exam is an hour-long oral examination given at the start of the second year and focused on the required first-year astronomy courses plus a presentation on the student first-year research.

After passing the qualifying exam, graduate students transition to teaching-assistant positions for the duration of their second year. After the one-year teaching requirement, most students move to full-time research positions.

Especially for the freshman-level introductory astronomy class.

The access they have to develop and use these observatories is simply unmatched by any other institution. Our deep connections to the JPL and the Greater IPAC communities, which develop and operate space missions (such as Spitzer, Herschel, and WISE), add to the large list of opportunities open to the students. shared by the Physics and Astronomy departments. Students in TAPIR work alongside leading scientists in many venues of theoretical astrophysics and also benefit from collaborations with leading observers and instrumentalists.

Many Caltech theses represent substantial, even milestone, results in their fields and position our graduates for continuing careers of excellence. Eighty percent of our graduate program matriculates receive Ph.D. degrees, within a mean time of 5.5 years. Students who graduate from Caltech with an M.S. degree generally find employment in education, research, or industry.

Caltech Astronomy boasts a long and impressive list of Ph.D. alumni who have gone on to distinguished careers in the field.

Overall, our graduates do very well in the postdoctoral job market, and typically several per year win prestigious fellowships. The long-term research employment prospects for Caltech Astronomy Ph.D.s compare very favorably with those at other institutions (see figure).

Nationally, while the number of bachelor degrees in astronomy was within 15% of constant throughout the 1980s and 1990s, over the past decade there has been close to 100% growth in the number of astronomy majors and 60% growth in physics majors. The increased pools for graduate admission have been accompanied by a smaller yet very substantial 50% increase in the number of available first-year graduate student positions nationwide. At the same time, the number of doctorate degrees awarded has remained stable (+ -15%).

At Caltech we typically graduate between 2 and 6 Astronomy Ph.D.s per year, and a similar number of Physics graduate students whose primary interest is astrophysics. Our matriculating first-year class in Astronomy ranges from year to year between 2 and 9 students. Presently in Astronomy, there are 25 graduate students.

Northwestern University

The Northwestern Astronomy PhD is designed to provide students with a broad training in astronomy while enabling them to get started quickly with their graduate research. The Astronomy PhD is a flexible program that allows students to complement their astronomy training with a selection of physics courses or courses from other quantitative disciplines such as applied mathematics, statistics, computer science or engineering relevant to their research.

Students pursuing astronomy or astrophysics research in the department will benefit from the vibrant environment and opportunities offered by the Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Exploration in Astrophysics (CIERA).

Astronomy PhD

Vanderbilt university.

Stewart (B.S. Vanderbilt Ph.D. Alabama) is an Adjoint Assistant Professor of Astronomy for research in the Astronomy Group in the Physics Astronomy at Vanderbilt University.

Susan G. Stewart Physics Astronomy

Cornell university.

Postdoctoral position, Max Planck Institute for Astrophysics in Garching, Germany.

Research Associate, Center for Astronomy Space Sciences (CSIRO, Sydney, Australia).

Topics in Theoretical Astrophysics: Precession of Warped Disks, Oscillations of Presupernova Stars, and Thermal Evolution and Nucleosynthesis of Young Neutron Stars.

Research Scientist, Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences, MIT.

Of Physics Astronomy at College of Charleston.

Senior Lecturer, University of Portsmouth (UK) NEWS: Dr Karen Masters wins Women of the Future award.

Collisionless Beam-Radiation Processes in the Laboratory and Astrophysics.

New Views in The Near Infrared: A Fabry-Perot Interferometer for Galactic and Extragalactic Astronomy.

A Fabry-Perot For Airborne Infrared Astronomy and the [siII] Emission From The Galactic Center.

Low Energy Gamma Ray Astronomy From Apollo 16.

Hydrodynamic Studies in Astrophysics: I. Relativistic Expanding Non-Thermal Radio Sources II. Optically Thick Accretion Near the Eddington Limit.

Analysis and Application of A Multi-Beam Radio Astronomy Survey.

Inverse Compton Photons, Cosmic Electrons, and Related Problems in Particle Astrophysics.

Masters Degree Magnetic Effects of Geomagnetically Trapped Particles.

Masters Degree Plasma Sheaths and Their Effects On Antennas.

Masters Degree Measurement of Faraday Dispersion in Type II Solar Events.

Ph.D. Graduates

What kind of scholarships are available for graduate programs in astronomy.

We have 155 scholarships awarding up to $1,270,915 for Masters program in for Astronomy, targeting diverse candidates and not restricted to state or school-based programs.

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Compare the GRE score requirements, admission details, credit requirements and tuition for the Master's Program, from 155 universities offering Graduate PHD/Doctoral Programs in Astronomy. Compare Graduate PHD/Doctoral Programs in Astronomy

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Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics

Phd program in astronomy and astrophysics.

Our faculty have been at the forefront of astronomy for over a century, shaping its course since the founding of our department by George Ellery Hale in 1892. Hale pioneered the big glass in telescopes that ushered in a new age in astronomy; Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar defined the agenda of theoretical astrophysics for fifty years; Eugene Parker revolutionized our view of the sun and the role of magnetic fields in the cosmos; and David Schramm brought together particle physics and cosmology.  Our students have been just as influential.  Edwin Hubble solved the puzzle of the nebulae and discovered the expansion of the Universe; Nancy Grace Roman made the Hubble Space Telescope a reality; Carl Sagan advanced our understanding of the solar system and how to share the excitement of what we do with the public; and Jeremiah P. Ostriker’s manifold contributions have made him the leading theorist of his generation.

Today graduate students in the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics have multiple opportunities to engage with our pre-eminent faculty and their research groups on short- or long-term projects to complete pre-candidacy requirements and doctoral theses. Research fields span a wide range, with close integration between theory and experiment, and are enhanced by our connections to the Enrico Fermi Institute , the Departments of Physics and the  Geophysical Sciences , and the Kavli Institute for Cosmological Physics at the University of Chicago. We have strong partnerships with premiere facilities including  Argonne National Laboratory and  Fermilab , and we are a founding member of the 25-meter Giant Magellan Telescope, the world's largest optical telescope now under construction in the Chilean Andes. 

The PhD in Astrophysics is a year-round, full-time doctoral program on the academic quarter system, which encourages students to explore a range of courses, engage with more faculty, and challenge themselves in a fast-paced and academically rigorous environment. 

Program Overview

• full-time scholastic residence of at least 300 units of coursework per quarter, including summer
• completion of required core graduate courses
• completion of one to three pre-candidacy research projects
• successful completion of a two-part candidacy exam
• completion of the teaching practicum
• identification of a thesis advisor
• formation of a thesis committee
• thesis research and preparation
• final examination

Please refer to the  Graduate Announcements for detailed program requirements and courses.

Each admitted student is assigned a mentor who will help the student navigate graduate school by guiding them to achieve academic and professional goals and supporting their well-being and personal development. The mentor can guide students in course selection, assist in navigating difficult situations when they arise, provide coaching when preparing for oral exams, and counsel regarding postdoc placement or other career options. 

Financial Support

Graduate students in the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics receive full financial support from a combination of University and departmental fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships. Students are also encouraged to seek out external fellowships, as these provide students with both financial support and the flexibility to focus on research goals of individual interest. A two-quarter practicum as a teaching assistant is required of all graduate students, typically in the first year of study. Teaching assignments include instructing lab sections for non-science majors, and collaborative teaching with the faculty instructor of lecture courses in the Major in Astrophysics program.

Students with questions may contact

• Fausto Cattaneo (Deputy Chair for Academic Affairs),
• Laticia Rebeles (Graduate Student Affairs Administrator),
• Bahareh Lampert (Dean of Students in the Physical Sciences Division),
• Amanda Young (Associate Director, Graduate Student Affairs) in UChicagoGRAD.

Related Links

• Graduate Program Requirements and Courses
• Information for International Students
• Online Application

DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS AND ASTRONOMY

• Doctoral Programs

Astronomy PhD Degree

Northwestern astronomy.

Northwestern Astronomy PhD Poster

The Northwestern Astronomy PhD is designed to provide students with a broad training in astronomy while enabling them to get started quickly with their graduate research. The Astronomy PhD is a flexible program that allows students to complement their astronomy training with a selection of physics courses or courses from other quantitative disciplines such as applied mathematics, statistics, computer science or engineering relevant to their research. Please note that GRE exam scores are not accepted as part of our application process.

Students pursuing astronomy or astrophysics research in our department will benefit from the vibrant environment and opportunities offered by the Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Exploration in Astrophysics (CIERA).

Research and the Thesis

• Explore Astronomy Research at Northwestern

When do students start doing research?

We encourage students to become engaged in research as early as possible in their studies. Incoming students on University Fellowship support are especially encouraged to begin part-time research in their first year. To acquaint themselves with the research opportunities in the department, most new students work with one of the faculty during the summer of their first year of graduate study. (However, there is no requirement to do so.)

When do students choose an advisor?

Students may choose a thesis advisor and/or topic at any point in their first two years.

When is the Candidacy Exam (Prospectus)?

A proposed thesis topic must be defended before a faculty committee no later than by the end of the student's fourth (4th) year at Northwestern.

How long does it take students to complete the degree?

The thesis must be defended by no later than the end of the student's ninth (9th) year at Northwestern.The median number of years to completion is five (5) years.

Can students receive their Master's degree along the way?

Yes, students may apply to receive a Master's degree en route to their PhD degree. This may be helpful on applications for outside funding.

Interdisciplinary Work

Discover the IDEAS program to learn about additional graduate training opportunities and our Certificate in Integrated Data Science.

Course Requirements

• Selected from Astron 314/414, 321/421, 325/425, 329/429, 410, 416, 448, 449, and 451
• This ensures that Astronomy PhD students get to know the Physics PhD students when they start at Northwestern.
• Four (4) other 400-level quantitative science or engineering courses (including in physics or astronomy).

How long will it take to finish the required coursework?

Most of the astronomy graduate courses are offered every other year, so students will typically take 2 years to finish their course requirements.

Where are descriptions of the Astronomy courses?

See online descriptions of graduate courses and scroll to the bottom of that page to see astro courses.

Professional Development, STEM, and Outreach

Explore a wide variety of education and outreach opportunities while you are in graduate school.

How to Apply

Please note that GRE exam scores are not accepted as part of our application process.

• Application details

Advanced Tools for Research

• Telescope Access for Northwestern Astronomers
• High-performance Computing at Northwestern
• Northwestern University Research Shop

Further Questions?

Contact the Graduate Program Assistant.

Please refer to our   Resources page   for direct links to The Graduate School (TGS) for information that can guide you in your academic career.

Our Program Handbook can also answer many questions you might have.

Department of Astrophysical Sciences

Graduate Program

Our Department hosts one of the top graduate programs in astronomy and astrophysics in the world.  The most recent Assessment of Doctoral Programs by the National Academy of Sciences  ranked Princeton as #1 overall, #1 in Research Activity, and #1 in Student Support and Outcomes.  Students have a great deal of freedom to pursue research projects using theoretical, computational, and observational approaches.  Students work directly with the faculty from the moment they arrive in our lively and congenial Department.  They have access to cutting-edge computational facilities, and involvement in many exciting observational projects including the Simons Observatory, the Subaru Hyper-SuprimeCam survey, the Rubin Observatory, and the HAT-PI variability survey.

Graduate Students 2023

Graduate Students 2022

Graduate Students 2021

2018 Graduate Students

2017 Graduate Students

2016 Graduate Students

Meeting with incoming graduate students after Bent Spoon ice cream, 2016

Snowball Warriors 2017

Chinese New Year Celebration... Year of the Rooster

Bottomless Sushi Birthday Celebration

Graduate students promoting science at the 16th annual Young Women’s Conference in STEM

Director of Graduate Studies and Graduate Admissions:

Joshua winn professor of astrophysical sciences.

Office Location:  125 Peyton Hall E-mail: [email protected]

• Program in Plasma Physics

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The Department of Astronomy offers a rich and varied program of theoretical, observational, and experimental graduate work. You will conduct research in your first year in the program, accessing such impressive resources as the Harvard College Observatory and the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory. You will also have the opportunity to travel to the twin 6.5-meter Magellan Telescope in Chile and the 6.5-meter MMT telescope in Arizona.

Your funding is guaranteed for six years, regardless of your chosen faculty advisor. The average length of time to graduate is five and a half years.

You can attend our weekly colloquia, regular seminars, clubs, and meets and interact with world leaders in astronomy to generate new ideas and initiate potential collaborations.

Examples of student theses and dissertations include “Applications of High-Resolution Observations of Millimeter Wavelengths,” “The Bright Side of Black Holes: Radiation from Black Hole Accretion Disks,” and “Charting our Uncharted Milky Way.”

Graduates have secured faculty positions at institutions such as University of California, Berkeley; Dartmouth College; and the University of Bath. Others have begun their career with leading organizations such as Boston Consulting Group, Google, and Netflix.

Additional information on the graduate program is available from the Department of Astronomy and requirements for the degree are detailed in Policies .

Admissions Requirements

Please review admissions requirements and other information before applying. You can find degree program-specific admissions requirements below and access additional guidance on applying from the Department of Astronomy .

Academic Background

In the Advanced Coursework section of the application for admission, applicants must list their four most advanced courses in astronomy and two most advanced courses in mathematics, including textbooks and authors used in each course.

Personal Statement

Not Accepted

Standardized Tests

GRE General: Not accepted GRE Subject (Physics): Optional 

Theses & Dissertations

Theses & Dissertations for Astronomy

See list of Astronomy faculty

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Questions about the program.

• Utility Menu

Department of Astronomy

• Thesis Colloquium Talks (videos)
• Financial Aid

Graduate Program

Astronomy Department graduate students (September 2022)

The Department of Astronomy offers a rich and varied program in theoretical, observational and experimental graduate work leading to the PhD in Astronomy and Astrophysics. Students are not accepted for a separate master's degree program. Research is carried out at the  Harvard College Observatory , which shares buildings and general facilities with the  Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory . Together the two observatories constitute the  Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics —a large and diverse research setting which provides opportunities in nearly every branch of astrophysical work, from atomic physics to cosmology, using the full range of techniques from gamma ray detectors through radio antennas. Follow these links to learn more about  facilities  and  research areas .

Over 360 PhD scientists are engaged in work at the Center for Astrophysics (CfA), providing students with an unusually wide choice of thesis topics and stimulating opportunities for both formal and informal learning through courses and seminars. Graduate students at Harvard benefit from this diverse environment, have access to extensive facilities, and pursue their work in a supportive and stimulating setting.  We hold ourselves accountable to fostering a respectful and inclusive work environment for all students, as outlined in our Graduate Student Community Values.

The program of graduate study is designed to make Harvard PhD students first-rate researchers with a broad knowledge of astrophysics and competence in teaching. To do this, we have constructed an advising program and a set of requirements to help students develop their astrophysical understanding, and to carry through a successful thesis in a timely way.

The  Director of Graduate Studies and the Committee on Academic Studies  are in charge of the graduate program.

See pictures from the grad student Astro 214 class trip to Arizona to learn how to use the Whipple Observatory.

• Undergraduate Program
• Financial Support
• Requirements
• Committees and Advising
• Thesis Topics

College Departments Offering Astronomy Related Degrees

Note: This list is no longer actively maintained. Its information predates 2020.

This is a list of astronomy degree granting institutions. For more information please contact the specific institution of your choice. If you are a department chair and would like to make corrections, please email the AAS Education Department .

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UCLA Graduate Programs

Graduate Program: Astronomy and Astrophysics

UCLA's Graduate Program in Astronomy and Astrophysics offers the following degree(s):

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Masters available on Doctoral track

With questions not answered here or on the program’s site (above), please contact the program directly.

Astronomy and Astrophysics Graduate Program at UCLA 1-707 B Physics and Astronomy Building Box 951547 Los Angeles, CA 90095-1547

Visit the Physics and Astronomy Department’s faculty roster

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Visit the registrar's site for the Physics and Astronomy Department’s course descriptions

• Admission Requirements
• Program Statistics

(310) 206-6994

[email protected]

MAJOR CODE: ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS

Astrophysics PhD

The Department of Astronomy offers a graduate program aimed at the PhD degree in astrophysics. Entering students need not have majored in astronomy, although some background in astronomy is desirable. A strong background in physics, however, is essential.

Research is a major part of the PhD program, and the department offers opportunities in a wide variety of fields, including theoretical and observational astrophysics; infrared, optical, and radio astronomy; time-domain astronomy; high-energy astrophysics and cosmology; discovery and analysis of exoplanets; star formation and stellar evolution.

The department has established six years as the normative time to degree. Normative time is the elapsed calendar time in years that under normal circumstances will be needed to complete all requirements for the PhD, assuming a student who enters without deficiencies, who is engaged in full-time uninterrupted study, and who is making desirable progress toward the degree.

Contact Info

[email protected]

501 Campbell Hall #3411

Berkeley, CA 94720

At a Glance

Department(s)

Admit Term(s)

Application Deadline

December 2, 2024

Degree Type(s)

Doctoral / PhD

Degree Awarded

GRE Requirements

Department of Physics & Astronomy

College of Natural & Agricultural Sciences

Doctoral Degree in Astronomy

Doctoral degree in astronomy (new) : requirements.

The UCR Department of Physics and Astronomy expects to offer a PhD program in Astronomy starting Fall 2023.  The degree is designed to provide a broad background in observational, theoretical, and computational astrophysics through a combination of courses and research.  Requirements for the program are described below.

Courses will include a set of core courses taken in the first year, followed by electives (see below).  The program emphasizes an early start to research, with students will beginning research project at least as early as the Winter quarter of their first year.  It is expected that students in the PhD program will be associated with a thesis research advisor by the end of the spring quarter of their first year.  A special seminar class PHYS288 is designed to familiarize the student with research activities of the faculty.

A student is recommended for advancement to candidacy for the Ph.D. degree in Physics upon completion of the following requirements:

Satisfactory completion of the core courses listed below. Each course must be passed with a grade of B- or better and the student must maintain an average for all courses of B or better.

The following Core Courses will be taken in the first year. The five courses which are examined in the comprehensive exam are in bold.

Students should also take two elective graduate lecture courses from the list below.  Other courses, including those outside the Department, may also count as electives with the approval of the Astronomy Graduate Advisory Committee.

Comprehensive Exam

Ph.D. students must pass a comprehensive exam, with two parts, a written test on the courses and an oral test on the research. They will both be taken at the end of the summer of your first year. Students must pass both parts. If a student does not pass on the first attempt, the student will be asked to retake the part they didn’t pass.

Written section of the comprehensive exam

Each course will have about 1 hour of material, set and graded by the instructor of the course. Grading will be done blind based on a pre-written mark scheme.

There will be two exams on separate days. The first day will test the fall courses, PHYS 211A and PHYS 217, and will be 2 hours long. The second will test the winter and spring courses, PHYS 213, PHYS 215 and PHYS 219 and will be 3 hours long. Each course’s questions will be normalized to 20% of the total grade. The pass mark shall be 50% of the total available marks. Adjustments to the grading scale may be made at the discretion of the Comprehensive Exam Committee.

The comprehensive exam is a rigorous and challenging test, but you were admitted in part because we believed you have the ability to succeed in it.

Students may request to see their graded exams at the Student Affairs office. Any grading concerns should be submitted to the Student Affairs office in writing within one week of the results being announced. The request will be forwarded to the Comp Committee Chair for the Committee’s consideration. The Committee Chair will inform the student prior to the Add/Drop deadline about the decision made by the Committee. The affected exams will be regraded in their entirety; the overall grade may decrease as a result. The Committee's decision is final.

Research section of the comprehensive exam

Students will present an oral report, approximately 30 minutes in length on the background, motivation, and methods of their research. This will be based on the two quarters of research time in winter and spring, as well as the first summer of research.

The presentation will be followed by a question and answer session with a 3-member faculty committee, chaired by a comprehensive exam member and containing the student's advisor. The committee will be looking for evidence that the student has read the most important parts of the research literature and understood the major problems in the field. They will also look for evidence that the student has done some new research. It is not necessary to have a completed project at this stage, but the committee would like to see that the student has started research in earnest.

Examples of things that a student could show to the committee are:

• Results to go in a first draft of a paper, perhaps some new figures.
• A proposal for telescope time
• Some data reduction or analysis of a simulation
• Newly developed code

Students should explain what they have done, show their results, and describe how they did it.

To show that the students understands the background, they should have read some of the significant papers in their subfield (although not all of them) and be able to describe and discuss the current big problems in the subfield.

The committee will give written feedback after the exam. As part of the feedback, each student will receive two scores from 1-5. There will be separate scores for literature review and for research progress. A score of 5 shows exceptional progress. A score of 3 on each component is required to pass the research exam. If a student scores a 3, they are likely to be given significant feedback which should be taken into account.

If a student scores 2 or 1 on either component, they will be required to retake both components. Students will be asked to give another presentation after another 3 months of research work, at the start of winter quarter, and will be expected to improve. The presentation should contain both a literature review and a demonstration of research progress, even if the student scored 3 or above on one of the components in the first exam.

Qualifying Oral Examination

Ph.D. students must complete an oral qualifying exam in the general area of the student's proposed dissertation research.  The oral presentation should provide background and motivation for the dissertation research, preliminary results from this research, and a clear plan for completion of the thesis including a timeline for the acquisition of data (if relevant), analysis, other key milestones, and papers to be submitted to journals. The exam committee will be composed of the student’s research advisor, at least two other departmental faculty, and one faculty member from outside the department.  The exam must be taken before the end of the student’s third year in the program.  At the discretion of the committee, a student may be permitted to take it a second time.   After passing this exam and advancing to candidacy, students will provide yearly updates on their progress to the thesis committee.  The thesis committee will be comprised of the student’s research advisor and at least two other departmental faculty, typically those who have served on the student’s candidacy committee.

Completion of the Degree

The student is recommended for the Ph.D. degree following their advancement to candidacy and completion of the following requirements:

Normative Time to Degree: If the student is full-time with no deficiencies, the normative length of time pre-candidacy (before the Qualifying Exam) is not more than three (3) years. The normative time between Candidacy and Defense/Ph.D. completion is three (3) years. Overall, the normative time from enrollment in the program to Ph.D. degree is expected to be six (6) years.

100 Best colleges for Astrophysics and Astronomy in the United States

Updated: February 29, 2024

• Art & Design
• Computer Science
• Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
• Mathematics

Below is a list of best universities in the United States ranked based on their research performance in Astrophysics and Astronomy. A graph of 55.4M citations received by 1.54M academic papers made by 874 universities in the United States was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. University of California - Berkeley

For Astrophysics and Astronomy

2. California Institute of Technology

3. Stanford University

4. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

5. University of Arizona

6. Princeton University

7. University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

8. Harvard University

9. Cornell University

10. University of Chicago

11. University of Washington - Seattle

12. Pennsylvania State University

13. University of Maryland - College Park

14. University of Texas at Austin

15. University of California - Los Angeles

16. Columbia University

17. University of Illinois at Urbana - Champaign

18. Johns Hopkins University

19. University of Colorado Boulder

20. Ohio State University

21. University of Wisconsin - Madison

22. Yale University

23. University of California - Santa Barbara

24. University of California-San Diego

25. University of California - Santa Cruz

26. Arizona State University - Tempe

27. University of Pennsylvania

28. University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

29. University of Florida

30. Northwestern University

31. Georgia Institute of Technology

32. New York University

33. University of Virginia

34. University of California - Davis

35. Texas A&M University - College Station

36. Purdue University

37. Carnegie Mellon University

38. University of California - Irvine

39. Rutgers University - New Brunswick

40. Boston University

41. University of Pittsburgh

42. University of Southern California

43. Stony Brook University

44. Michigan State University

45. University of Rochester

46. University of Massachusetts - Amherst

47. Washington University in St Louis

48. Iowa State University

49. Washington State University

50. Brown University

51. University of Utah

52. Case Western Reserve University

53. Duke University

54. Providence College

55. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

56. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

57. North Carolina State University at Raleigh

58. Rice University

59. University of Delaware

60. University of Iowa

61. University of Hawaii at Manoa

62. University of California - San Francisco

63. Vanderbilt University

64. University of Notre Dame

65. University of New Mexico

66. Colorado State University - Fort Collins

67. Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College

68. University of Kentucky

69. University of Tennessee - Knoxville

70. University of California - Riverside

71. University of Illinois at Chicago

72. University of Oklahoma - Norman

73. Oregon State University

74. Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science

75. Florida State University

76. University of Connecticut

77. Dartmouth College

78. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

79. University of Miami

80. University of Houston

81. Emory University

82. University at Buffalo

83. Tufts University

84. University of Missouri - Columbia

85. University of Georgia

86. University of Central Florida

87. University of Alabama in Huntsville

88. University of Kansas

89. New Mexico State University

90. Syracuse University

91. Temple University

92. University of Cincinnati

93. University of Nebraska - Lincoln

94. University of South Carolina - Columbia

95. Northeastern University

96. University of Oregon

97. Seattle University

98. George Mason University

99. University of New Hampshire

100. Wayne State University

The best cities to study Astrophysics and Astronomy in the United States based on the number of universities and their ranks are Berkeley , Pasadena , Stanford , and Cambridge .

Physics subfields in the United States

Astrophysics and Astronomy, MS

On this page:.

At a Glance: program details

• Location: Tempe campus
• Second Language Requirement: No

Program Description

Degree Awarded: MS Astrophysics and Astronomy

The MS program in astrophysics and astronomy provides fundamental graduate training in both astrophysics and astronomy.

Students take graduate-level courses in stars and interstellar media, galaxies and cosmology; obtain quantitative skills through analysis and modelling; and they may have observation opportunities through regional and international telescope observatories.

Degree Requirements

Curriculum plan options.

• 30 credit hours and a thesis
• 30 credit hours including the required capstone courses (SES 510 and SES 599)

Required Core (1 credit hour) SES 502 Exploring SESE Research (1)

Electives or Research (5 credit hours)

Other Requirements: Astrophysics Sequence (9 credit hours) AST 521 Stars and Interstellar Medium I (3) AST 522 Stars and Interstellar Medium II (3) AST 591 Seminar: Astrophysics (2) SES 501 SESE Colloquium (1)

Other Requirements: Galaxies and Cosmology Sequence, pick one (3 credit hours) AST 531 Galaxies and Cosmology I (3) AST 532 Galaxies and Cosmology II (3) AST 533 Galaxies and Cosmology III (3)

Other Requirements: Exoplanets and Planetary Science Sequence, pick one (3 credit hours) AST 598 Topic: Origins of Solar Systems (3) AST 598 Topic: Exploring Exoplanets (3) SES 598 Topic: Water in the Solar System (3)

Other Requirements: Instrumentation and Techniques Sequence, pick one (3 credit hours) AST 552 Astronomical Instrumentation and Data Analysis (3) SES 598 Topic: An Introduction to Astro-statistics (3) SES 598 Topic: Spectroscopy for Astrophysics (3) SES 598 Topic: Introductory Radio Astronomy (3)

Culminating Experience (6 credit hours) SES 510 Graduate Exploration Project I (3) and SES 511 Graduate Exploration II (3) or SES 599 Thesis (6)

Additional Curriculum Information Substitutions for other required courses may be made per department approval.

For their culminating experience, students in an accelerated program complete capstone courses SES 510 and 511. All other students complete SES 599.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or they must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

• graduate admissions application and application fee
• official transcripts
• statement of purpose
• three letters of recommendation
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Flexible Degree Options

Accelerated program options.

This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years. It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's and master's degree with:

BSE - Aerospace Engineering (Astronautics) -->

Bse - aerospace engineering (astronautics).

Website | Locations: TEMPE

BSE - Mechanical Engineering -->

Bse - mechanical engineering.

Website | Locations: TEMPE,ONLNE

BS - Earth and Space Exploration (Astrophysics) -->

Bs - earth and space exploration (astrophysics), bs - earth and space exploration (exploration systems design) -->, bs - earth and space exploration (exploration systems design), bse - aerospace engineering (aeronautics) -->, bse - aerospace engineering (aeronautics), bse - electrical engineering (electrical power and energy systems) -->, bse - electrical engineering (electrical power and energy systems), bse - aerospace engineering (autonomous vehicle systems) -->, bse - aerospace engineering (autonomous vehicle systems), bs - earth and space exploration -->, bs - earth and space exploration, bse - electrical engineering -->, bse - electrical engineering, bs - earth and space exploration (geological and planetary sciences) -->, bs - earth and space exploration (geological and planetary sciences), bs - earth and space exploration (astrobiology and biogeosciences) -->, bs - earth and space exploration (astrobiology and biogeosciences).

Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. During their junior year, eligible students will be advised by their academic departments to apply.

Next Steps to attend ASU

Learn about our programs, apply to a program, visit our campus, application deadlines, career opportunities.

Professionals with expertise in astrophysics and astronomy are in high demand across all sectors and industries, including remote sensing, data science, building instruments and scientific research. Coding and numerical modeling skills translate across many domains, even beyond astrophysics. Skills in the measurement and analysis of data related to the physics, chemistry and structure of the universe and exoplanetary systems are valuable to businesses and institutions relying on data-driven strategies to explore beyond the Earth and solar system.

This degree program prepares candidates for further graduate study or for careers in related fields such as scientific staff positions at government laboratories, teaching at the community college level and technical positions in industry. Career examples include:

• data scientist
• research astronomer
• telescope operator

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

• [email protected]
• 480/965-5081

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

List of All U.S. Colleges with an Astronomy Major

The night sky is full of wonders: constellations of stars, the planets, the moon…and, if you’re lucky, the occasional meteor shower. 

Astronomy, perhaps the oldest science of all time, is the study of all this and more — that is, the wonders of the night sky and the entire universe. Leveraging a knowledge of math and science and cutting-edge equipment and technology, astronomers learn about the amazing facets of galaxies. 

Are you interested in studying astronomy in college? Find out all about the major and top schools that offer an astronomy program.

Overview of the Astronomy Major

An astronomy curriculum is grounded in physics; it is far from an easy major, contrary to popular belief (we actually rated it as one of the hardest science majors ). Other coursework includes math and natural sciences. You’ll often find astrophysics, a related discipline, in a combined department with astronomy. You’ll learn about the solar system, theories behind space and the components within it, and different possibilities in space. You’ll also conduct experiments and participate in lab work.

There are many career possibilities for graduates of astronomy programs. Some go on to earn a PhD in the field and become astronomers, predominantly a research and teaching position. Given how few astronomy positions are available, it’s a competitive track, not to mention a time-intensive one.

Some astronomy majors end up working in planetariums, government laboratories or facilities like NASA, and observatories. Others go on to become engineers, science teachers, software developers, physicians, meteorologists, or science journalists. Depending on which career you choose, you’ll probably need an advanced degree in astronomy or another field.

If you’re interested in astronomy, you should be a curious person who loves to learn and discover new things. You should also be equipped with knowledge of many disciplines, like engineering and biology. But you must also be willing to put in long hours — it’s a competitive field that isn’t as lucrative as some other science-heavy professions.

What to Look for in a College as an Astronomy Major

A quality observatory.

When you’re studying the night sky as your major, you need a quality observatory and other equipment to conduct research. Colleges boasting some of the best observatories and telescopes include the University of Hawaii, the University of Arizona, Caltech, and the University of Chicago, among many others. Some are even open to the public and host events for students, faculty, and the surrounding community.

Research Opportunities

Astronomy is a predominantly research-based field. When you’re looking into schools that have an astronomy program, determine whether there are opportunities for undergraduate students to work with esteemed astronomers who are on the faculty. This is especially important if you plan on going to graduate school, as many do, because it will prepare you to conduct your own research.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

Fieldwork is another important part of the astronomy curriculum. This allows students to experience their subject firsthand. At Harvard, for example, astronomy undergraduate students have the opportunity to participate in faculty-led field trips, which have previously included an observation of the Great American Solar Eclipse, and a trip to Hawaii to conduct a telescope observation on the summit of Mauna Kea.

Other factors to consider include whether the school has an undergraduate astronomy organization or club. You should also take a look at the specialties and subspecialties in the department, especially if you’re hoping to tackle a specific one.

List of All U.S. Colleges With an Astronomy Major

What Are Your Chances of Acceptance?

Astronomy is an extremely rigorous major. When you’re applying to programs, first ensure that your academics (GPA and test scores) or comparable to those of previously accepted students. This is because most selective schools use the Academic Index to filter out applicants.

You should also demonstrate your fit with the school and astronomy program via the qualitative components of your applications, including your extracurricular activities and essays. You’ll want to participate in plenty of science-related activities to show your interest in the field. Aspiring astronomy majors should take AP Physics and AP Calculus BC, if possible. Extracurriculars like Astronomy Club, volunteering at the local science center, and Science Olympiad are also good choices.

And, if you’re curious about your chances of admissions, try out our free Chancing Engine . It takes into account both academic statistics and qualitative factors to estimate your real odds of admission to more than 500 colleges and universities across the country.

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