At a glance
60 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
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Language
PhD
Level
- Median completion time of 5 yearsProgram Duration
- Start research early, often in the first yearResearch Engagement
- Flexibility to combine astronomy with physics or other quantitative disciplinesCurriculum Flexibility
- Access to advanced research tools including telescope access and high-performance computingResearch Resources
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary work through programs like IDEASInterdisciplinary Opportunities
- GRE scores are not acceptedAdmissions Note
The Astronomy PhD program at Northwestern University offers comprehensive training in astronomy, with a strong emphasis on enabling students to commence graduate research early in their studies. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to supplement their astronomy coursework with subjects from physics and other quantitative fields like applied mathematics, statistics, computer science, or engineering, tailored to their specific research interests. Students benefit from the dynamic research environment fostered by the Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Exploration in Astrophysics (CIERA).
Curriculum
Coursework typically takes two years to complete, as many graduate astronomy courses are offered every other year. Students are required to complete six 400-level astronomy courses, two 400-level physics courses (including Classical Mechanics in the first quarter), and four additional 400-level quantitative science or engineering courses. Descriptions for astronomy courses can be found at the bottom of the graduate course catalog.
- Year 1-2
- Classical MechanicsPhys 411-0
- Four 400-level astronomy courses
- Two 400-level physics courses
- Four other 400-level quantitative science or engineering courses
Frequently asked questions
- How long does the Astronomy PhD program typically take to complete?
- The median completion time for the Astronomy PhD program is 5 years. Students are encouraged to start graduate research early, often in their first year.
- What are the tuition and fees for international students?
- Information regarding tuition and fees for international students can be found on The Graduate School website. Housing and meal plan fees are additional costs if you enroll in those services.
- What is the language of instruction for this program?
- The program is taught in English. International students must provide certification of English language proficiency if English is not their native language.
- What are the application deadlines for the Astronomy PhD program?
- The application for the Astronomy PhD program opens in September for Fall admission. The application deadline is December 1, 5 PM (CST).
- Are GRE scores required for admission to the Astronomy PhD program?
- No, GRE scores are not accepted for the Astronomy PhD program at Northwestern University. Admission decisions are based on your overall academic record, institution quality, and GPA.
- Can I combine astronomy studies with other fields?
- Yes, the program is flexible and allows you to supplement astronomy coursework with subjects from physics and other quantitative fields such as applied mathematics, statistics, computer science, or engineering.
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Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to The Graduate School website for tuition and fee details.
Tuition (home)Please refer to The Graduate School website for tuition and fee details.
LivingInformation on housing and meal plans can be found via Graduate Housing and Northwestern Dining.
For full cost of attendance information, visit your Financial Aid Office website. Housing and meal plan fees are added to your bill if enrolled.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online ApplicationSubmit the online application form through The Graduate School website.
2. Prepare Supplemental MaterialsGather your Academic Statement, Personal Statement, 2-3 letters of recommendation, original transcripts from all previously attended universities, and your resume/CV.
3. Certify English ProficiencyIf English is not your native language, you must provide certification of your English language proficiency.
4. Submit Application and MaterialsEnsure the online application and all supplemental materials are received by the deadline.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Astronomy PhD program typically take to complete?
+
The median completion time for the Astronomy PhD program is 5 years. Students are encouraged to start graduate research early, often in their first year.
What are the tuition and fees for international students?
+
Information regarding tuition and fees for international students can be found on The Graduate School website. Housing and meal plan fees are additional costs if you enroll in those services.
What is the language of instruction for this program?
+
The program is taught in English. International students must provide certification of English language proficiency if English is not their native language.
What are the application deadlines for the Astronomy PhD program?
+
The application for the Astronomy PhD program opens in September for Fall admission. The application deadline is December 1, 5 PM (CST).
Are GRE scores required for admission to the Astronomy PhD program?
+
No, GRE scores are not accepted for the Astronomy PhD program at Northwestern University. Admission decisions are based on your overall academic record, institution quality, and GPA.
Can I combine astronomy studies with other fields?
+
Yes, the program is flexible and allows you to supplement astronomy coursework with subjects from physics and other quantitative fields such as applied mathematics, statistics, computer science, or engineering.