PhD Astronomy at Columbia University

Programme overview

Research in the Department of Astronomy covers theory, observation and instrumentation across extragalactic, stellar and exoplanet astronomy. Students can also work with Physics faculty, the American Museum of Natural History and the Simons Center for Computational Astronomy.

Faculty: Graduate School of Arts and Sciences | Department: Astronomy | Intake: Fall | Study mode: full-time | Location: New York, NY, United States

What you will study

Students take at least 30 points from Astronomy and Physics offerings, including five core courses and special-topics courses and seminars; up to 6 points come from research reports on projects with faculty in the first two years, done with two separate advisors. Observing facilities include the 1.3m and 2.4m MDM telescopes on Kitt Peak.

Career pathways

Research in astronomy and astrophysics.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

An undergraduate major in physics, astronomy or a related field with a solid background in physics and mathematics is required. Statements should be no more than 500 words. Applicants submit one transcript per school attended, a statement of academic purpose, a personal statement and a resume. Three letters of evaluation (at least two from academic recommenders). Writing sample: not required. GRE General and GRE Subject scores are not required. International applicants whose undergraduate degree is from an institution in a country whose official language is not English submit TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo English Test scores. Fall 2027 entry application deadline: December 2, 2026.

Intake: Fall

Apply through the official page: https://www.gsas.columbia.edu/content/prospective-students

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