Master of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics

The Master of Science in Astronomy & Astrophysics is a full-time two year program based upon 100% coursework. The coursework may be tailored to a student’s needs, and can include astrophysical techniques, astrophysical computing, planetary science, stellar astrophysics, galaxies, cosmology, and courses from cognate disciplines. Many courses contain research or hands-on components that develop skills and knowledge in the latest advances in astronomy and astrophysics. They also offer training in areas highly relevant outside of academia, e.g. project management, computer programing, and problem solving skills. Some of the courses may include the acquisition and analysis of telescope data, the development of theoretical models, or the development and testing of new astronomical instrumentation.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must present a Bachelor degree or international equivalent

The GPA requirement for this program must be met by both the program as a whole, as well as by the 8 courses in a cognate discipline. Where more than 8 cognate courses have been completed by the applicant, ANU will take the best 8 courses when assessing the cognate GPA.

The GPA for a Bachelor program will be calculated from (i) a completed Bachelor degree using all grades and/or (ii) a completed Bachelor degree using all grades other than those from the last semester (or equivalent study period) of the Bachelor degree. The higher of the two calculations will be used as the basis for admission.

Additional admission information:

Students applying for this program will need to have a background in physics equivalent to undergraduate second year quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, and electromagnetism in order to meet prerequisites for many of the ASTR- and PHYS- courses listed in this program. They will also need to have a background in Mathematics, equivalent at least to the level of ANU MATH2305.

Ranking and English language proficiency: At a minimum, all applicants must meet program-specific academic/non-academic requirements, and English language requirements. Admission to most ANU programs is on a competitive basis. Therefore, meeting all admission requirements does not automatically guarantee entry. In line with the University's admissions policy and strategic plan, an assessment for admission may include competitively ranking applicants on the basis of specific academic achievement, English language proficiency and diversity factors. Applicants will first be ranked on a GPA ('GPA1') that is calculated using all but the last semester (or equivalent) of the Bachelor degree used for admission purposes. If required, ranking may further be confirmed on the basis of:

Prior to enrolment in this ANU program, all students who gain entry will have their Bachelor degree reassessed, to confirm minimum requirements were met.

Further information: English language admission requirements and post-admission support

Career Options

ANU ranks among the world's very finest universities. Our nearly 100,000 alumni include political, business, government, and academic leaders around the world.

We have graduated remarkable people from every part of our continent, our region and all walks of life.