Astronomy: Astronomy and Cosmology

In the field of cosmology we look for scientific answers to the most fundamental questions that one can ask: Where do we come from? How did the Universe start? How did it evolve and where does it go?

Modern cosmology is a complex, multidisciplinary research area. Observations of the Universe with state-of-the-art telescopes on Earth and in space, supercomputer simulations of the origin of structure, and theoretical physics studies of the Hot Big Bang, the expanding Universe, and inflation provide a consistent understanding of our Universe.

The current picture is quite accurate, yet full of with new physics waiting to be discovered. Research in this area is moving fast, and requires familiarity with current theoretical ideas as well as a basic understanding of the data. The overall aim is to train you in this exciting research field, preferably in an integrated Cosmology master's and PhD degree programme.

Are you a theory-oriented student interested in discovering all aspects of modern astrophysics, including observation, interpretation, simulation and theory? Then, Astronomy and Cosmology at Leiden University is the right master's specialisation for you. This programme is essentially based on combined research in astronomy and physics and is therefore open for students with a bachelor's degree in Astronomy and/or Physics from a recognized university.