UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK · UNITED STATES
Astronomy, Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
—
Duration
7.0
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
The Ph.D. program in Astronomy offers students the opportunity to specialize in a research stream aligned with their interests within the field. The curriculum is designed to build a strong foundation for advanced research. Beyond the core coursework, students may be required to take additional courses as determined by their thesis committee to support their specific research endeavors. The program structure includes requirements for advancing to candidacy, which involves presenting a research project in the second year and successfully defending a thesis proposal in the third year. Post-candidacy, students focus on doctoral dissertation research and the final dissertation defense.
Curriculum
The Ph.D. program requires a total of 32-37 credits. This includes core coursework, introductory research, and dissertation research.
- Years 1-2
- Radiative ProcessesASTR601
- Stellar Structure and EvolutionASTR606
- Astronomical Instrumentation and TechniquesASTR610
- Computational AstrophysicsASTR615
- GalaxiesASTR620
- CosmologyASTR622
- Planetary ScienceASTR630
- Interstellar Medium and Gas DynamicsASTR670
- High Energy AstrophysicsASTR680
- Special Problems in Advanced AstronomyASTR699
- Introduction to ResearchASTR695
- Year 3
- Pre-Candidacy ResearchASTR898
- Post-Candidacy
- Doctoral Dissertation ResearchASTR899
Frequently asked questions
- What are the credit requirements for the Ph.D. in Astronomy program?
- The Ph.D. program requires a total of 32-37 credits, including core coursework, introductory research, and dissertation research.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- International applicants must achieve a minimum IELTS score of 7.0 or a Duolingo score of 120. Official scores must be sent to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions using reporting code 5814.
- How do I apply to the Ph.D. in Astronomy program?
- You need to submit the graduate admissions application, provide official academic transcripts, and send English proficiency test scores. Refer to the graduate admissions portal for any additional required documents like letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose.
- What is the duration and structure of the Ph.D. program?
- The program structure includes core coursework and research in the first two years, with a research project presentation in the second year and a thesis proposal defense in the third year to advance to candidacy. Post-candidacy involves dissertation research.
- What are the tuition and fee policies for this program?
- A special tuition rate applies to this program, which is the same for residents and non-residents. Graduate student fees are charged in addition to tuition, and these costs are subject to change.
- What financial aid or scholarships are available for this program?
- While this program does not offer departmental assistantships or fellowships, Administrative Graduate Assistantships and MAGE Student Employment Opportunities may be available. You can also explore financing options through FAFSA.
Entry requirements
Graduate Study in AstronomyCompletion of core requirements including at least six specified astronomy courses (18 credits), an introduction to research course (1 credit), and pre-candidacy research. Students must also complete a second-year research project and pass a Thesis Proposal Defense in their third year to advance to candidacy.
IELTS7.0 overall
Duolingo120
TOEFL
Official IELTS scores must be sent using reporting code 5814. Scores must be less than two years old.
Fees
Tuition (international)Special tuition rate applies to this program. Please refer to the Tuition and Fees page for current rates.
Tuition (home)Special tuition rate applies to this program. This rate does not differ between residents and non-residents of Maryland. Please refer to the Tuition and Fees page for current rates.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided.
Graduate student fees are charged in addition to tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to change. This program's tuition is not fully covered by graduate assistantships, fellowships, or tuition remission.
How to apply
1. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the graduate admissions application.
2. Provide TranscriptsSubmit official academic transcripts from all previous institutions.
3. English Proficiency ScoresHave official scores from an accepted English proficiency test (IELTS, Duolingo, TOEFL) sent directly to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions using reporting code 5814. Scores must be less than two years old. The minimum IELTS score is 7.0, and the minimum Duolingo score is 120.
4. Other Application MaterialsRefer to the graduate admissions portal for any additional required documents, such as letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and GRE scores (if applicable).
Scholarships
Departmental Assistantships/Fellowships—
Administrative Graduate Assistantships—
MAGE Student Employment Opportunities—
FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)—
Frequently asked questions
What are the credit requirements for the Ph.D. in Astronomy program?
+
The Ph.D. program requires a total of 32-37 credits, including core coursework, introductory research, and dissertation research.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants must achieve a minimum IELTS score of 7.0 or a Duolingo score of 120. Official scores must be sent to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions using reporting code 5814.
How do I apply to the Ph.D. in Astronomy program?
+
You need to submit the graduate admissions application, provide official academic transcripts, and send English proficiency test scores. Refer to the graduate admissions portal for any additional required documents like letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose.
What is the duration and structure of the Ph.D. program?
+
The program structure includes core coursework and research in the first two years, with a research project presentation in the second year and a thesis proposal defense in the third year to advance to candidacy. Post-candidacy involves dissertation research.
What are the tuition and fee policies for this program?
+
A special tuition rate applies to this program, which is the same for residents and non-residents. Graduate student fees are charged in addition to tuition, and these costs are subject to change.
What financial aid or scholarships are available for this program?
+
While this program does not offer departmental assistantships or fellowships, Administrative Graduate Assistantships and MAGE Student Employment Opportunities may be available. You can also explore financing options through FAFSA.