MSc in Astrophysics

The objective of the MSc in Astrophysics is to train researchers to a level where they can either undertake a doctorate or provide high-level support to astronomical research, teaching or dissemination in the astronomical area.

Benefits of studying at the Institute of Astrophysics at PUC-Chile:

• One of the leading Astronomy centers in Latin America.
• Active and dynamic international community comprised of 16 faculty, ~30 postdocs, and ~50 graduate students.
• Latest frontier research in cosmology, galactic and extragalactic astrophysics, astrochemistry, astronomical instrumentation, high energy astrophysics, and numerical simulations.
• Access to 10% of the time in all telescopes installed in Chile, including APEX, ALMA, Paranal, La Silla, Las Campanas, Cerro Tololo, etc.
• Rich and vibrant scientific environment, including mentorship with world-class faculty, weekly seminars and colloquia, daily journal-club discussion, group meetings, strong visitor program, exchange programs with various international institutions, and travel to national and international conferences. The program offers plentiful opportunities for networking and collaboration at many levels.
• A limited number of support scholarships for the duration of the program, including living expenses and 90% reduction in tuition fee. Students accepted to the program without support scholarships will still receive 90% reduction in tuition fee.
• Financing for research trips, publications and computers.
• The official language of the Institute is English.

Application Dates: From July 1 to August 1, 2024, to start studies in March 2025.

Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in Astronomy or Physics (or related areas), full-time dedication, and good command of the English and/or Spanish language. Previous research experience, while not a requirement, is considered positive.

Application documents:

• Letter outlining applicant’s motivation to train as a researcher in astrophysics, and in particular at IA-PUC, research experience (if any), research interests, and career plans and goals (max 2 pages).
• Curriculum Vitae, including list of publications, if any (maximum 3 pages).
• A minimum of two and a maximum of three letters of reference, in Spanish or English, written by people who know the applicant well and can give a thorough assessment of the candidate’s strengths and weaknesses (e.g., classwork, teaching, investigation, and personal character).
• Official academic transcripts, in English or Spanish, with a clear indication of the grade scale and student ranking.
• Academic degree certificate, or letter from academic institution indicating the expected date of graduation.
• Any other background that the applicant would like to add, for example the result of a standardized test such as the GRE or TOEFL.

All the application documents (with the exception of the reference letters) must be sent through our application form. Shortlisted applicants will be scheduled for interviews. All questions should be directed to gradapp@astro.puc.cl

From this background, the Postgraduate Committee will prepare a candidate ranking based on the following scale:

Cover Letter: 10%
Academic background: 20%
Reference letters: 25%
Curriculum Vitae: 15%
Interview: 30%

Those selected who accept our offer will be contacted to initiate procedures related to health insurance (FONASA, ISAPRE or other), visa for foreign students, etc.

The Institute of Astrophysics and the PUC are committed to offering equal opportunities and diversity in their working community, including religious freedom. Minority applications are especially welcome.

Application date: From July 1 to August 1, 2024, to start studies in March 2025.

Enrolled students may access the following documents and forms:

1-. Form to request record (of enrolled student, concentration of grades, other)

2-. Form to request subject validation

3-. Rules for preparing the thesis

4-. Thesis format information