MSc Astronomy
Leiden, Netherlands
DURATION
2 Years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Request application deadline
EARLIEST START DATE
Request the earliest start date
TUITION FEES
EUR 2,314 / per year *
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* non-EEA : €19,600
Introduction
Leading experts train students in our Astronomy programme in cutting-edge astronomical research. We incorporate in our educational programme observations and data from the world’s foremost ground- and space-based telescopes as well as theoretical, computational and astrochemical modelling, large-scale simulations, and laboratory experiments that mimic conditions in space. This two-year master’s programme trains students to become experts in various fields of astronomy. We offer seven challenging specialisations, all of which can be tailored to suit your specific interests and ambitions. This will prepare you for various academic, industry and public sector careers.
Astronomy: the right master’s programme for you?
Are you interested in astronomy research within or outside academia? Do you want to add value to society through scientific and technological progress? Are you keen on solving complex matters and up for a challenge? Then our Leiden University Astronomy master’s programme is designed for you.
Why study Astronomy at Leiden University?
- Leiden Observatory has a very strong international reputation. The Observatory staff consists of award-winning experts leading in their research field, such as Kavli-Award winning Prof. Ewine van Dishoeck.
- We maintain close relations with astronomical institutes such as SRON, ASTRON and ESA-ESTEC. As a master’s student you will get direct access to the world's best astronomical research facilities.
- Leiden University offers a welcoming environment and an open international community. Over 40% of the population of our master’s programme consists of international students and we have a large international staff.
- For promising candidates from outside of the European Union, we are offering a €4.350 reduction of our tuition fee (this amount is subject to change each year).
Curriculum
In this two-year master's programme in Astronomy you get access to cutting edge research in modern astronomy. Main focus areas include galaxies and the structures in which they are embedded, exoplanets, and star and planet formation. With seven challenging specialisations to choose from, you will be prepared for a wide variety of careers within academia, industry and the public sector.
The Leiden Astronomy Department has a strong international reputation. Research at the cutting edge of modern astronomy is an integral part of the MSc programme. Research students graduate with a broad knowledge of astronomy and astrophysics, but may specialise in observation, theory or instrumentation.
Other specialisations allow the student to specialise in business and management, communication or education.
Are you are interested in astronomy research within or outside academia? Do you want to add value to society through scientific and technological progress? Are you keen on solving complex matters and are you up for a challenge? Then our Leiden University Astronomy master's programme is designed for you.
Admissions
Gallery
Scholarships and Funding
Leiden University works close with Indonesian and Dutch scholarship providers in order to expand the opportunities for Indonesian students to study in Leiden.
Program Tuition Fee
Career Opportunities
With a master’s degree in Astronomy, you are well prepared for jobs in research, industry, and the public sector, including technological, financial, and consultancy companies, research institutes, governments, and science communication organizations.
Acquired skills and competence
With a Leiden degree in Astronomy you obtain an impressive skill set leading you to a top-level job quickly after graduation (see Beste Banen 2016). As a strong communicator and collaborator, you can easily operate in an international setting. You have acquired extensive astronomical research experience and highly advanced analytical and problem-solving skills. Their helicopter view and ability to prioritize enable astronomers to successfully engage in large multidisciplinary projects.
Career
Most graduates holding an MSc degree in Astronomy from Leiden University find work in many different capacities, including:
- Research: universities, observatories, research institutes
- Industry and consultancy: ICT, R&D, telecom, high technology, aerospace
- Finance: banking, insurance, pension funds
- Public sector: governments, policymakers, high schools
- Science communication: journalism, popular writing, museums
Typical jobs for Astronomy graduates include:
- Scientific researcher (postdoc, research fellow, professor)
- R&D engineer
- Consultant
- Data scientist, statistician
- Policy advisor, public information officer (e.g. Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
- High school physics teacher
- Scientific editor for magazines, newspapers, and other media
Research at Leiden Observatory
If you want to get more deeply involved in research after graduating in Astronomy, consider pursuing a PhD at Leiden Observatory. If you have completed the Leiden master’s degree program in Astronomy, you are directly eligible for admission to our Ph.D. program.
Program Admission Requirements
Show your commitment and readiness for Grad school by taking the GRE - the most broadly accepted exam for graduate programs internationally.