The Institute of Astronomy offers an exciting opportunity for suitably qualified students who have completed a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in astronomy, physics or mathematics to study for a 9-month master's level qualification in astrophysics working alongside fourth-year (Part III) students taking the final year of the integrated master's undergraduate MSci Astrophysics Tripos.
The MASt in Astrophysics consists of a research project which accounts for a third of the total marks available for the course, and includes a written report (85%) and a formal oral presentation (15%) to the Part III/MASt Examiners and a choice of a range of high level specialist courses, most of which are examined in June.
The course aims to provide an intellectually stimulating environment in which students have the opportunity to develop their skills and enthusiasm to the best of their potential. Owing to the demanding level of the course and the competition for a limited number of places, applicants should have achieved (or expect to achieve) a very good performance in their undergraduate degree. Although some bursary funding may be available, applicants should expect to arrange their own funding.
If you are accepted to this programme, you will be asked to complete a preparatory CATAM (Computer-Aided Teaching of All Mathematics) scientific programming project, organised by the Mathematics Faculty, before starting the course in October.
You must be highly proficient in mathematics. The majority of the courses on the MASt in Astrophysics are taken from the Part III Mathematical Tripos. To progress from the Part II Mathematical Tripos to the Part III, students must obtain a first class, which illustrates the level of maths required to succeed on this course.
Learning outcomes
Students completing the year should have:
- had experience of a number of areas of astrophysics from a choice of options taken to an advanced level, at which current research can be appreciated in some depth;
- carried out a substantial research project amounting to about one-third of the work in the course;
- enhanced their communications skills;
- become well prepared for a career in academic research or one where independent research skills are required.
Continuing
Students wishing to undertake a PhD in Astronomy must make an application for admission via the Applicant Portal in the normal way. To satisfy the academic requirement for admission to the PhD a student must pass the MASt.
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