MA/MS in Astronomy and Astrophysics

This master's degree in astronomy is offered through Rensselaer's physics, applied physics and astronomy department and is designed to be adapted to each student's goals and prior training. Astronomy is presented as a field that drives new instruments, software and processes with benefits for technology and society. The plan of study calls for thirty credits beyond the bachelor's degree, with most of them in coursework and a substantial share at the advanced graduate level. Students must keep a cumulative grade average of at least 3.0 in courses counted toward the degree. Required work includes one core physics course such as electrodynamics or quantum mechanics, a set of astronomy and astrophysics electives, and either a thesis or a multi-semester professional project. Graduate admissions information is linked from the page, along with a list of program outcomes.