UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER · UNITED STATES
Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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Tuition / yr
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PhD
Level
- Minimum 37 credit hours of coursework (including graduate seminars)Coursework Requirement
- Minimum 30 credit hours of PhD dissertation creditsDissertation Credits
- Comprehensive exam including a research paper and oral defenseExamination
- Access to Sommers-Bausch Observatory for hands-on experienceObservational Facilities
- Affiliation with world-class Fiske PlanetariumPublic Outreach Opportunity
- Interdisciplinary research opportunities with affiliated organizationsCollaborative Research
The PhD program in Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences at the University of Colorado Boulder offers students the opportunity to specialize in either astrophysics or planetary science. While the department does not offer a standalone master's degree, students can earn one as they progress toward their PhD. The program emphasizes a strong integration of astrophysics, planetary science, solar physics, and space instrumentation, combining both observational and theoretical approaches. This interdisciplinary environment fosters collaboration and allows students to explore a wide range of research areas. Students benefit from on-campus resources like the Sommers-Bausch Observatory for hands-on observing experience and the Fiske Planetarium for public outreach, complemented by local research organizations.
Curriculum
The program requires a minimum of 37 credit hours of coursework, including graduate seminars, in courses numbered 5000 or above. A significant emphasis is placed on independent study and research, with a minimum of 30 credit hours dedicated to PhD dissertation work. Students are expected to gain a broad foundation in core areas during their first year, with opportunities to take specialized courses in related departments based on their research interests. Students must also remove any identified academic deficiencies, pass a comprehensive examination (involving a research paper and oral defense), and successfully defend their PhD thesis.
- Year 1
- Atomic and Molecular ProcessesASTR 5110
- Mathematical MethodsASTR 5540
- Introduction to Fluid DynamicsASTR 5400
- Observations, Data Analysis and StatisticsASTR 5550
- Radiative and Dynamical ProcessesASTR 5120
- Graduate Seminars
Careers
Graduates of the Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences PhD program are prepared for careers in research and academia, as well as roles in various scientific and technical fields. The program's emphasis on both observational and theoretical research, along with interdisciplinary collaboration, equips students with a versatile skill set applicable to diverse opportunities.
- Astrophysicist
- Planetary Scientist
- Researcher
- Academic Faculty
- Space Scientist
- Instrumentation Specialist
- Data Analyst
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic requirements for the PhD in Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences?
- You will need a Bachelor's Degree and must complete a minimum of 37 credit hours of coursework, including graduate seminars, in courses numbered 5000 or above. Additionally, at least 30 credit hours must be dedicated to PhD dissertation work.
- What is the duration of the PhD program?
- The program description does not explicitly state the typical duration for completing the PhD. However, it outlines coursework requirements and dissertation credit hours.
- What are the career prospects after completing this PhD program?
- Graduates are prepared for careers as Astrophysicists, Planetary Scientists, Researchers, Academic Faculty, Space Scientists, Instrumentation Specialists, and Data Analysts.
- How do I apply for the PhD program?
- You should visit the Department of Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences' 'Prospective Students' webpage and the University of Colorado Boulder Graduate School Admissions section for detailed information on the application process, required materials, and deadlines.
- Where can I find information about tuition fees and living costs?
- Specific details on tuition fees, living costs, and potential funding opportunities are not provided on the program page. Please consult the University of Colorado Boulder's Graduate School website for current financial information.
- Are there any specific facilities or opportunities for hands-on experience?
- Yes, students have access to the Sommers-Bausch Observatory for hands-on observing experience and can be affiliated with the Fiske Planetarium for public outreach opportunities.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA minimum of 37 credit hours of coursework (including 4 credit hours of graduate seminars) in courses numbered 5000 or above is required. A minimum of 30 credit hours of PhD dissertation credit hours are required.
Students are required to remove any deficiencies identified at the preliminary interview. They must also pass a comprehensive examination (writing a research paper based on a semi-independent research project, followed by an oral exam) and satisfactorily defend their PhD thesis before a faculty committee. Graduate-level courses in departments such as Physics, Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, Geological Sciences, Applied Mathematics, or Aerospace Engineering can be taken depending on student interests and interdisciplinary program participation.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
Living—
Information regarding specific tuition fees, living costs, and potential funding opportunities for international students is not detailed on the program page. Prospective students are encouraged to consult the University of Colorado Boulder's Graduate School website for the most current financial information and available resources.
How to apply
1. Visit Departmental ResourcesExplore the Department of Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences' 'Prospective Students' webpage for program-specific information.
2. Review Graduate School AdmissionsConsult the University of Colorado Boulder Graduate School Admissions section for general requirements, application procedures, and deadlines.
3. Prepare Application MaterialsGather required documents including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
4. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application through the University of Colorado Boulder Graduate School portal.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic requirements for the PhD in Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences?
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You will need a Bachelor's Degree and must complete a minimum of 37 credit hours of coursework, including graduate seminars, in courses numbered 5000 or above. Additionally, at least 30 credit hours must be dedicated to PhD dissertation work.
What is the duration of the PhD program?
+
The program description does not explicitly state the typical duration for completing the PhD. However, it outlines coursework requirements and dissertation credit hours.
What are the career prospects after completing this PhD program?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers as Astrophysicists, Planetary Scientists, Researchers, Academic Faculty, Space Scientists, Instrumentation Specialists, and Data Analysts.
How do I apply for the PhD program?
+
You should visit the Department of Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences' 'Prospective Students' webpage and the University of Colorado Boulder Graduate School Admissions section for detailed information on the application process, required materials, and deadlines.
Where can I find information about tuition fees and living costs?
+
Specific details on tuition fees, living costs, and potential funding opportunities are not provided on the program page. Please consult the University of Colorado Boulder's Graduate School website for current financial information.
Are there any specific facilities or opportunities for hands-on experience?
+
Yes, students have access to the Sommers-Bausch Observatory for hands-on observing experience and can be affiliated with the Fiske Planetarium for public outreach opportunities.