Overview

The format of the Astronomy degree at University of Cambridge is almost entirely research-based, and while projects may be exclusively theoretical or observational, many combine aspects of both. Many projects incorporate aspects of Data Science, including machine learning and artificial intelligence.

Key facts:

Note: The university also offers a PhD programme in Astrophysics at the Cavendish Laboratory.

It is normal for students to attend several relevant international conferences during their PhD, often presenting their own research work. Some students working on observational research projects undertake observing trips(s) to major international observatories.

Programme Structure

First-year PhD students are expected to attend an induction programme and a number of short courses covering research skills. A student journal club and presentation sessions operate weekly during the term. The total number of course and journal/presentation hours involved is approximately 40 in the first year of the PhD. For UKRI funded students there are some additional training requirements, which amount to approximately 20 hours.
Acquiring knowledge of research in a broad range of astrophysics is an integral part of the PhD. In addition to specific PhD-related talks and discussions, students are expected to attend two weekly seminars or colloquia during the term.
There are no formally assessed lecture courses.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 72 months
Part-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2028-10-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-12-08 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7

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Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Cambridge, United Kingdom

Disciplines

Astronomy & Space Sciences View 36 other PhDs in Astronomy & Space Sciences in United Kingdom

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Academic requirements

GPA

Required

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7

IELTS & PTE Test Preparation

E2 Language Test Prep

Trusted by 7M+ Students

Start Studying Today

Admission to your dream university starts with a high IELTS or PTE score. Earn your target score with E2's guided test preparation.

Study on your own schedule
Live classes with current and ex-examiners
Accurate score assesment, always
E2 Score Guarantee - Get your score or your money back!

Other requirements

General requirements

Applicants for this course should have achieved a Masters (Pass).

If your degree is not from the UK, please check International Qualifications to find the equivalent in your country.

The Degree Committee for the Faculty of Physics and Chemistry normally requires applicants to have the equivalent of a UK master's (pass). This requirement is in addition to satisfying the University's minimum academic requirement. Applicants should obtain the equivalent of:

at least a II.i in a UK four-year 'integrated master's' (honours) degree, OR
at least a II.i in a UK three-year bachelor's (honours) degree plus a relevant one/two-year UK master's degree.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

42546 GBP / year

≈ 42546 GBP / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

11208 GBP / year

≈ 11208 GBP / year

Additional Details

Part-time:

National - £6,725
International - £25,528

Living costs

Cambridge

United Kingdom

846 - 1465 GBP / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Astronomy.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Key facts:

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

IELTS & PTE Test Preparation

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

IELTS & PTE Test Preparation

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Additional Details

Living costs

Cambridge

Funding

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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