Astronomy and Instrumentation (MSc)
About the programme
The Astronomy and Instrumentation specialisation consists of 120 European Credit Transfer System (EC) points and includes highly specialized instrumentation courses, a selection of advanced electives and two research projects.
Programme overview
At the start of your master’s programme, you are required to draw up the Master Study Plan: a complete list of planned courses and projects for two subsequent academic years in consultation with the study advisor. The curriculum of this master’s specialisation consists of:
Mandatory courses (12 EC)
- Astronomical Telescopes and Instruments (6 EC)
- Detection of Light a + b (6 EC)
Elective courses (48 EC)
- Astronomy Core Courses (6 EC)
- Instrumentation-related Astronomy courses (12-18 EC)
- Astronomy Courses of any type (24-30 EC)
Research (60 EC)
- First Research Project in General Astronomy (30 EC)
- Master’s Research Project in Instrumentation (30 EC)
Read more about the programme outline and courses
Educational methods
- Lectures
- Working groups
- Practical classes
- Excursions
- Research
Assessment methods
- Written, oral and take home exams
- Homework assignments
- Presentations and colloquia
- Reports (scientific paper, literature study)
Student support
The favorable student–staff ratio guarantees a high degree of interaction with and personal attention from the (senior) staff. The Astronomy study advisor is available for individual and confidential study support. In addition, Astronomy master’s students have access to their own desk within the institute during their master research project. Therefore, close collaboration with supervisors and group members is guaranteed. Moreover, the Astronomy master’s programme provides an informal atmosphere and a welcoming research community, in which social activities flourish.