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MSc in Astronomy - Astronomy and Science Communication and Society

Netherlands

33

2

What will I learn?

The Astronomy and Science Communication and Society master's specialisation focuses on the interaction between science and society.

What does this master’s programme entail?

Increasingly, the general public wants to be and needs to be informed about scientific topics. At the same time, scientists need to show accountability to the general public about their research. In this specialisation you bridge the gap between experts and the public by combining high quality research in astronomy with extensive training in science communication. After completion you have obtained the necessary knowledge and skills to either become science communicator with a strong astronomy background, or an astromer with a communicating mindset.

Why study Astronomy and Science Communication & Society (SCS) at Leiden University?

  • The specialisation provides you with at least one full year of research training in Astronomy, followed by a year of courses, internships and research in the field of science communication.
  • You have access to world-class and cutting edge research in modern astronomy at Leiden Observatory.
  • You will get hands-on experience during a science communication research or practical internship within a relevant organisation, such as popular science magazines, science museums, radio or television.

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

Do you want to bridge the gap between scientific research and the public? Want to combine high quality astronomy research with professional science communication? Then, this master’s specialisation is an excellent opportunity for you. You will be prepared for a career as a science or health communicator, policy maker, PR officer, science journalist, health officer, museum educator or an astronomy researcher with a communicating mindset.

Career prospects

After graduation you have a lot of opportunities: the field of science communication is very broad. You can also aim for a career in industry or research.

Acquired skills and competence

With a Leiden degree in Astronomy 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.

Students are prepared for a career as a science or health communicator, a science policy maker, a public relations officer, a science journalist, a health officer, a museum educator, a science communication researcher or for a career as a scientist with a communicating mindset.

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

  • High technology
  • Aerospace industry
  • IT/Telecommunications
  • Computer software
  • Finance banking
  • Consultancy
  • Insurance industry
  • Science communication
  • Education

Which department am I in?

Faculty of Science

Study options

Full Time (2 Years)

Tuition fees
€18,016.00 (US$ 19,447) per year
Application deadline

Expected April, October 2025

More details

Start date

Expected February, September 2025

Venue

Leiden University

Rapenburg 70,

LEIDEN,

Zuid-Holland,

2311, Netherlands

Entry requirements

For international students

  • A copy of a valid passport or ID card
  • A copy of a Dutch residence permit (if applicable)
  • CV (résumé)
  • Language proficiency (if applicable)
  • Copies of diplomas and transcripts
  • Letter of motivation

*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.

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