University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus

Engineering

PhD Astrophysics at University of Minnesota Twin Cities

University of Minnesota Twin Cities, United States

Programme overview

Astrophysics is the study of the universe and its constituent parts. The Minnesota Institute for Astrophysics conducts research in observational, theoretical, and computational astrophysics, as well as instrument development. The main research areas include minor planetary bodies, solar system properties, dynamics of normal and active galaxies, stellar evolution, interaction of stars with their environments, the interstellar medium, astrophysical magnetohydrodynamics, and galactic and cosmological structure.

Faculty: College of Science and Engineering  |  Duration: 5 years / 40 major credits + 24 thesis credits  |  Study mode: full-time  |  Location: Minneapolis, MN, United States

What you will study

Required components: Core Courses, Electives, Outside Field Courses, Thesis Credits. Courses must be taken on the A-F grade basis, unless only offered S/N, with a minimum grade of C earned for each course. Approval by the advisor and director of graduate studies is required for use of 4000-level courses..

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Coursework in analytical mechanics, electrodynamics, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and statistical physics. An undergraduate astronomy, physics or equivalent degree is required. Minimum undergraduate GPA 3.5. A statement of career goals, diversity statement, and three letters of recommendation are required. Applications are due by December 15 to be considered for fellowships and by January 15 for teaching and research assistantships. Students are admitted fall semester only. Minimum English proficiency for international applicants: TOEFL iBT 79, IELTS 6.5.

Duration: 5 years / 40 major credits + 24 thesis credits

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