Master of Science in Astrophysics

This Astrophysics Master's programme provides an in-depth overview of the various topics of astrophysics, from smallest to largest scales, and on the interrelations between them. Based on fundamental knowledge, the programme imparts specialised knowledge oriented towards current research questions. To this end, research methods, strategic planning of the approach, critical evaluation of scientific findings, independently responsible action as well as professionally relevant key qualifications are of central importance. The ability to think astrophysically and to proceed physically methodically in theory and practice is trained during the studies. This training results from an interplay between lectures, exercises, lab work, seminars, colloquia, tutorials, and excursions. The programme's curriculum enables a focus on both observational/instrumental and theoretical/computational aspects. Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU) is a worldwide highly ranked university, one of the leading universities in Germany, and part of the German Universities Excellence Initiative. It looks back on a history of over 550 years. Several Nobel laureates, Leibniz prize winners, ERC grand holders and Humboldt professorships have been affiliated with LMU Faculty of Physics. Students of the Astrophysics Master’s programme get the possibility to learn and work closely with worldwide recognised researchers with a strong international network and do state-of-the-art research. LMU forms an integral part of the exceptionally broad-based network of research institutions, universities, foundations, and corporations based in Munich. The city's other research institutions, including the Technische Universität München, the Max Planck Society and the Fraunhofer Society, as well as global enterprises and a vibrant start-up scene are closely intertwined with LMU, as are the Max-Planck Institutes and the European Southern Observatory (ESO) in Garching (close to Munich) intertwined with the University Observatory. All this builds the framework for an outstanding education and prepares the graduates of the Astrophysics Master’s programme at LMU for an international career. The curriculum for the MSc Astrophysics covers four semesters. In the first and second semesters, students attend advanced courses in astrophysics and physics and choose a field of specialisation. In the third and fourth semesters – accompanied by colloquia, tutorials and seminars – the Master's thesis is written.