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Postgraduate Study

The MPhil degree is assessed exclusively through research, and a project and Supervisor must be identified prior to the candidates' formal application. There is no taught element. The degree is not suitable for physicists and mathematicians wishing to prepare for a research PhD in Astrophysics, and the number of students admitted is small.

Historically, most MPhil students have secured funding for their MPhil studies through applications to scholarship programmes such as Churchill, Gates, and Marshall.

The aims of the programme are:

  • to give students with relevant experience at first-degree level the opportunity to carry out focused research in the discipline under close supervision
  • to give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

  • a comprehensive understanding of techniques and a thorough knowledge of the literature applicable to their own research
  • demonstrated originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field
  • shown abilities in the critical evaluation of current research and research techniques and methodologies
  • demonstrated some self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research

Continuing

Students wishing to pursue a PhD in Astronomy must apply for admission to the PhD via the Applicant Portal in the normal way.


Open Days

The University hosts and attends fairs and events throughout the year, in the UK and across the world. We also offer online events to help you explore your options:

  • Discover Cambridge: Master’s and PhD study webinars - these Spring events provide practical information about applying for postgraduate study.

  • Postgraduate Virtual Open Days - taking place in November each year, the Open Days focus on subject and course information.

For more information about upcoming events visit our events pages.

Apply Now

Key Information


12 months full-time

2 years part-time

Study Mode : Research

Master of Philosophy

Institute of Astronomy

Course - related enquiries

Application - related enquiries

Course on Department Website

Dates and deadlines:

Michaelmas 2025

Applications open
Sept. 4, 2024
Application deadline
Dec. 3, 2024
Course Starts
Oct. 1, 2025

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Course Funding Deadline
Dec. 3, 2024
Gates Cambridge US round only
Oct. 16, 2024

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2025, Lent 2026 and Easter 2026.


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