
About this program
MSc in Astronomy
International Research and Collaboration
Measurements flow in every day from satellites in space and from observatories all over the world. Students on the MSc in Astronomy programme are actively involved in research and in the discussion of new discoveries and theories. They study new planets orbiting other stars, examine the structure and development of the stars through seismological studies, and explore the earliest stages of the development of the universe, working with computer modelling or measurements from state-of-the-art telescopes and satellites.
Research and Collaboration
Teaching on the astronomy programme is greatly influenced by research, both in the courses and the thesis work, as the lecturers are active researchers. In this context, students benefit from the down-to- earth, informal relationship between the academic staff and students. Each student is associated with a group of researchers for their thesis work in year two, and there is wide scope for specialisation, both within the Department of Physics and Astronomy and (thanks to the department’s close collaborations with other centres) with researchers from the European Southern Observatory, the European Space Agency, and NASA
Admission requirements
In general, admission to a Master's degree programme at Aarhus University requires a relevant and recognised university degree equivalent to a Danish Bachelor's degree in level and length (180 ECTS).
You must also meet any specific requirements for the programme you are applying for.
Since English is the language of instruction in all subjects, all applicants must provide evidence of their English language proficiency.
You apply for a study programme at Aarhus University through our online portal.
Learn more about the general and more specific admission requirements at Aarhus University and find information on how to apply for a Master's Degree on our website.
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Learn moreProgram content
The MSc in Astronomy programme is open to students with a BSc degree in physics or another BSc degree in science with substantial physics and mathematics content. The programme is challenging and research-oriented, and reflects the interests of the private sector, research institutions, and the public sector. It is also flexible, and can accommodate the interests and profile of the individual student.
Students can specialise in (for example) helio-and asteroseismology, extra solar planet research, galactic structure, compact objects, or cosmology. The programme qualifies students for a career in research: students may apply for admission to the university’s PhD programme either during the first year of the MSc programme or on completion of thier thesis.
Scholarships & funding
Aarhus University offers a limited number of scholarships to the most talented applicants from outside Europe.
The scholarship is usually a full or a partial tuition fee waiver, and in some cases, it also includes a monthly grant towards living expenses. Typically the scholarship is for the whole duration of your Master’s degree program.
You can find more information about Danish State Scholarships on the Aarhus University website.
Tuition
- EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: FREE
- Others: €14,800
Career paths
As a graduate of the MSc programme in astronomy, a wide range of career opportunities will be open to you. Our graduates work in a variety of positions in the private sector, e.g. as data scientists, as researcher, or as software developer. Astronomy graduates also work in public research institutions such as universities, the European Southern Observatory, or the European Space Agency.
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About this institute

Welcome to Aarhus University in Denmark!
Established in 1928, Aarhus University has grown to be a world-leading research institution with a modern, dynamic and highly international study environment. It is consistently ranked as one of the world’s top 100 educational institutions, and recently ranked 69th in...
Why study at Aarhus University
An international and diverse university
Aarhus University is home to many international students and researchers – 12% of our students are international, from over 120 different countries! For that reason, English is our second language here at AU and we offer over 50 English-taught courses at either Bachelor’s or Master’s level. All our PhDs are English-taught. We also have a dedicated International Centre, to provide and introduction to living in Denmark and offer support and guidance.
Informal environment with focus on critical thinking
Teaching at AU takes place in an informal and inspiring environment, with a high focus on developing critical thinking skills and encouraging open debate. Professors at AU welcome discussions and value student insights to their classes. Furthermore, many courses at Aarhus University are interdisciplinary to give a students a well-rounded perspective of their chosen subject.
A comprehensive university
Aarhus University has five main faculties: Arts, Business and Social Sciences, Health, Natural Sciences and Technical Sciences. Each faculty is highly specialized with state of the art research facilities available for student use. Our faculties of Natural and Technical Sciences both have a special focus on sustainability and facilitating a green transition.