Master of Science (Advanced) in Astronomy and Astrophysics

About

The Master of Science (Advanced) in Astronomy and Astrophysics is a full-time two-year program based upon 50% coursework and 50% research. 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 (eg 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.

Research component

This Advanced program includes a substantial research-based project.

Admission criteria

• Bachelor degree or international equivalent with a minimum GPA of at least 5.5/7.0:
  – with at least 8 courses in a cognate discipline, which must also have a minimum GPA of 5.5/7.0
  – with a minimum of 2 courses of undergraduate second-year physics and a minimum of 2 courses of undergraduate second-year mathematics
  – with completion of a short research project equivalent to ANU ASTR3005 Astrophysics Research Topic.
• Compliance with the Australian National University's English language requirements for admission policy.

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.

Unless otherwise indicated, ANU will accept all Australian Qualifications Framework qualifications or international equivalents that meet or exceed the published admission requirements of our programs, provided all other admission requirements are also met. Where an applicant has more than one completed tertiary qualification, ANU will base assessment on the qualification that best meets the admission requirements for the program.

Cognate Disciplines

Astronomy & Astrophysics, Computer Science, Earth & Marine Sciences, Physics, Mathematics

GPA calculation

ANU uses a 7-point grade point average (GPA) scale. All qualifications submitted for admission at ANU will be converted to this common scale, which will determine if an applicant meets our published admission requirements. Find out how a 7-point GPA is calculated for Australian universities.

Unless otherwise indicated, where an applicant has more than one completed tertiary qualification, ANU will calculate the GPA for each qualification separately. ANU will base assessment on the best GPA of all completed tertiary qualifications that are eligible to be considered.

Course credit or exemption

For information about course credit for previous studies, see the program entry or read about course credit or exemption on the ANU website.

Progression requirements

Students must achieve a minimum 70% weighted average mark in the first 24 units of coursework and have the approval of the supervisor for the research project to continue in the Master of Science (Advanced) program.

Students who do not achieve a minimum 70% weighted average mark or do not have approval of an identified supervisor will be transferred to the Master of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics.

Fees and charges

^ Indicative total only. Actual total will depend on subject selection, rate of program completion and annual review of fee levels. Check the latest fee information.

Australian Government financial assistance

Australian National University scholarships and financial assistance

Equity Scholarships through UAC

Further information

Read the full course details on the ANU website.

Visit the ANU College of Science website.
Call (02) 6125 2809.
Email the College.