About the programme

The Exact Sciences – Astronomy and Space Physics track from the University of Turku includes a solid grounding in theoretical aspects as well as providing opportunities for observational studies, e.g. of supernovae or accreting black holes. The space physics group performs experimental, theoretical, and computational research on high-energy phenomena in near-Earth space.

Upon graduation, you will be able to use the diverse set of skills acquired as part of this track, including computational and numerical techniques.

The Astronomy and Space Physics track is one of the six specialisation tracks of the Master´s Degree Programme in Exact Sciences. The other tracks of the programme are:

• Chemistry of Drug Development
• Chemistry of Materials for Sustainable Development
• Materials Physics
• Theoretical Physics
• Mathematics and Statistics

Programme Structure

The structure is modular. All modules have 20 ECTS. The track has two obligatory modules that contain the core material of the field. In addition, you may choose one thematic module from other modules offered within the MDP in Exact Sciences or other programmes at the University of Turku. The fourth module consists of freely chosen courses and an obligatory Finnish language and culture course.

A master’s thesis (30 ECTS), and seminar, an internship, or a project work (10 ECTS) are also required. You can replace the latter by participating in a Capstone project (15 ECTS) organised by the Department of Computing. We recommend this for those students who aim to work in the industry after graduation

Theoretical courses will cover aspects of plasma physics and astrophysics, radiative processes and cosmology, hydrodynamics and magnetohydrodynamics, astrophysical spectroscopy and interstellar medium, as well as stellar structure and evolution.

The methodology module covers observational techniques, data analysis methods, detectors, and numerical methods. Here, you will take courses in the methods of observational astrophysics, statistical and simulation methods, signal and image processing, time-series analysis and Fourier transforms, space technology and radiation and particle detectors.

You are free to choose the thematic module from those offered in the Faculty of Sciences or take a suitable minor subject, even one offered by other faculties. Thematic modules offered by the MDP in Exact Sciences include biomaterials, electronics materials, modelling and functional materials. Possible minor subjects are e.g. computer science, mathematics, chemistry, business creation and innovation. However, for the thematic module, specialised courses in astrophysics and space physics are highly recommended.

The specialised courses in astrophysics and space physics will give you a deeper understanding of e.g. active galactic nuclei, astroparticle physics, physics of planet formation, galaxies and cosmology, galactic astronomy, heliophysics and high-energy astrophysics as well as nuclear and particle physics. You can select the topics that support your master‘s thesis.

In the module of other studies, you can choose any courses you want from the entire offering of the University in addition to the obligatory course of Finnish for foreigners. It is recommended that you take more courses on computing, modelling and theoretical physics, depending on your preferences.

Career Prospects

The prospects for employment at relatively senior levels are excellent for those trained in the physical and chemical sciences. Thanks to the broad scope of the programme, the skills and knowledge developed as part of this education at the University of Turku provide many employment opportunities in different areas.

Many of our graduates choose to continue their education by pursuing PhD studies in Finland or other European countries (e.g., Belgium, Estonia, Germany and Norway). Others have obtained employment in the software and high-tech industries.

Career in Research

The Master’s degree makes you eligible for scientific postgraduate degree studies – doctoral and licentiate degrees. The University of Turku Graduate School (UTUGS) has a Doctoral Programme in Exact Sciences that covers all of the disciplines of this Master’s degree programme.

The doctoral studies incur no tuition fees, and PhD students often receive either a salary or a grant to cover their living expenses.