PhD in Astronomy

Class Profile

Class Size

25

Average Age

27

Average Work Experience

2 Years

Diversity

North America:

5%

Africa:

2%

Others:

6%

UK:

60%

Asia:

10%

South America:

2%

EU:

15%

Career Outcomes

Median Earnings After Graduation

$1,10,000 / year

Top recruiters

Illinois Institute of Technology

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

European Space Agency

SpaceX

Tetra Tech

Texas Tech University

Canadian Space Agency

Collins Aerospace

AgResearch

Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees

$33,000 / year

Overall Cost

$48,000 / year

FAQs

• What support and resources does UCL provide for PhD researchers?
  
  Access to world-class academic supervisors, cutting-edge research groups, and state-of-the-art laboratory facilities. Participation in seminars, international conferences, and collaborative global projects. Training in research techniques, data science, programming, scientific writing, and presentation skills. Comprehensive academic, professional, and career development resources.
• What career opportunities are available after completing this PhD?
  
  Graduates often pursue: Academic careers and postdoctoral research Positions in research institutes, international observatories, and space agencies Roles in data science, technology, finance, and consulting, leveraging advanced problem-solving and analytical skills gained during the PhD.
• What documentation is required for the application?
  
  Academic transcripts and degree certificates. Proof of English language proficiency. Curriculum Vitae (CV). Statement of purpose/research interest. References (usually two). Passport copy for international students.
• What are the minimum academic and English language entry requirements?
  
  Applicants should hold at least a UK upper second-class integrated Master’s degree (MSci or MPhys) in physics, astronomy, or a closely related field, or an equivalent overseas qualification. In some cases, an undergraduate degree followed by an MSc is also acceptable. English proficiency: IELTS 6.5 (minimum 6.0 in each subtest), TOEFL 92+, or equivalent.
• What is the structure and duration of the PhD in Astronomy at UCL?
  
  The PhD in Astronomy is typically a full-time research degree taking three academic years (full-time) or up to five academic years (part-time). Students conduct original research under the supervision of faculty, culminating in a written thesis and an oral examination (viva voce). Research areas include astronomical instrumentation, cosmology, extragalactic and galactic astrophysics, cosmoparticle physics, gravitational wave science, and planetary/exoplanetary science.