Astronomy and Astrophysics: Astronomy and Astrophysics MSc

Master of Science

Minimum Admission Requirements

  • Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics' additional admission requirements stated below.

  • Applicants must hold an appropriate bachelor's degree with high academic standing from a recognized university.

  • Applicants whose primary language is not English and who graduated from a university where the language of instruction and examination was not English must demonstrate proficiency in English. See General Regulations section 4.3 for requirements.

  • Because many universities do not offer extensive undergraduate training in astronomy and astrophysics, preparation in physics and mathematics is an acceptable background.

Program Requirements

  • Coursework. Students must successfully complete 2.0 required full-course equivalents (FCEs): AST1501Y and AST1500Y, with different supervisors. Students are immediately engaged in original research throughout these two required research courses. An oral exam by committee is held for each. AST1501Y is normally completed during the Fall/Winter of Year 1, and AST1500Y is completed in the following Summer session.

  • Students must complete a minimum of 1.5 FCEs (three half courses) from the AST preparatory, elective, or specialized courses. More courses may be taken for credit or audited as appropriate.

  • Students are expected to attend the weekly general colloquium conducted by the department.

  • Residence. Students are normally expected to be on campus full-time for the duration of the program.

Program Length

3 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S)

Time Limit

3 years full-time