MSc in Astronomy - Astronomy and Data Science

Leiden University

In the master’s specialisation Astronomy and Data Science you focus on development and application of new data-mining technologies, fully embracing modern astronomy as a data rich science. You combine the research curriculum in Astronomy with in-depth training in Computer Science.

What does this master's programme entail?

The Astronomy and Data Science master’s programme is built on world-class computational astrophysics research as well as hightech industry expertise. It covers a wide range of research areas studying complex astronomical phenomena, including radiative transfer, computation of dynamical internal galaxy structures and hydrodynamical modeling of galaxy formation and evolution of the intergalactic medium.

Reasons to choose Astronomy and Data Science at Leiden University

• Combine advanced Astronomy courses with relevant courses from the Computer Science programme at Leiden University.
• You have access to sophisticated computational facilities ranging from local computer clusters to high-performance systems at national and international computing centers.
• The ever-increasing amount of data generated worldwide perfectly fits your knowledge and skills, offering excellent career opportunities.

Astronomy and Data Science: the right master’s programme for you?

Will you be mastering the world’s future data? Are you looking for a career in Astronomy and/or Computer Science, within or outside academia? Then our unique Astronomy and Data Science master’s specialisation offers you numerous opportunities to assemble your own path in this direction.

Career prospects

With an ever-increasing amount of data generated worldwide, industry, governments and academia highly welcome professionals with specific knowledge and skills to handle big data.

Acquired skills and competence

With a Leiden MSc degree in Astronomy and Data Science you have become a strong communicator and collaborator and can operate in an international setting with ease. You have acquired extensive astronomical research experience and highly advanced analytical and problem solving skills. The programme prepares you as much for a career in Astronomy as in Computer Science, both within or outside academia.

Career

Most graduates holding a MSc degree in Astronomy from Leiden University find work in many different capacities, including:

• Research: universities, observatories, research institutes
• Industry and consultancy: ICT, R&D, telecom, high technology, aerospace
• Finance: banking, insurance, pension funds
• Public sector: governments, policy makers, high schools
• Science communication: journalism, popular writing, museums

Typical jobs for Astronomy graduates include:

• Scientific researcher (postdoc, research fellow, professor)
• R&D engineer
• Consultant
• Data scientist, statistician
• Policy advisor, public information officer (e.g. Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
• High school physics teacher
• Scientific editor for magazines, newspapers and other media