Astronomy and Space Sciences (PhD) at Cornell University

Programme overview

The goal of the graduate program in astronomy is to provide the foundation of a future career, whether it be in the specific field of astronomy and space sciences or in some other quantitative, scientific discipline. The first two years of your education is directed toward training in the broad inclusive knowledge of the field of astronomy and space sciences through classwork, seminars, colloquia, and consultation with faculty. You will gain experience communicating your ideas verbally and in written form.

Faculty: Cornell Graduate School | Department: Astronomy and Space Sciences | Duration: 5 semesters minimum | Intake: Fall | Location: Ithaca, NY, United States

What you will study

Concentrations: Astrobiology, Astronomy, Astrophysics, Astrostatistics, Cosmology, Data science, Exoplanets, Instrumentation, Planetary sciences, Space sciences [general], Theoretical astrophysics.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a strong background in astronomy, astrophysics, electrical engineering, engineering physics, mathematics, or physics.; all Graduate School requirements , including the English language proficiency requirement for all applicants; three recommendations; not required/accepted: GRE general or subject tests Application deadline: Fall, December 1; no spring admission

USD 20,800 a year (2026-27). Doctoral tuition per year ($10,400 per semester); the source states $20,800 applies to Ph.D., D.M.A. and J.S.D. programs in endowed and contract colleges; tuition only. Source

Graduate School applications are submitted online through the Graduate School application; the application fee is $105. Each graduate field sets its own deadlines, and many fall between early December and mid-January.

Apply through the official page: https://gradschool.cornell.edu/admissions/application-steps/apply-now/

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