Indiana University
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Graduate Program

The Indiana University Astronomy Department offers three graduate degrees, a master of arts in astronomy, a Ph.D. in astronomy, and a Ph.D. in astrophysics, which is offered in collaboration with the IU Physics Department. Twenty-three graduate students are currently enrolled in the program, taking courses during their first two years, and then undertaking the Ph.D. dissertation after passing the qualifying exam after their second year. Typically 2-3 students graduate per year with advanced degrees. Many students complete dissertations in observational astronomy using the 3.5-m WIYN observatory at Kitt Peak in Arizona, while others complete dissertations in theory or computational astrophysics or high energy astrophysics. The Department supports an active public outreach program, hosting open nights and tours at the Kirkwood Observatory, frequent school visits, and occasional public events, and the graduate students play a key role in maintaining this program. Students all gain teaching experience during their graduate careers at IU, and teach courses independently during the summer sessions.

WIYN

Information for Prospective Students