Doctor of Science, Astronomy Mention

Objectives

Our main objective is for the Department of Astronomy of the University of Chile to have postgraduate teaching at the level of the best universities in the world.

Doctors trained by the Program will be able to make original research contributions and will be qualified to hold academic positions in higher education institutions, both in teaching and in research that represent a contribution to the advancement of this scientific discipline.

Curriculum

Courses The student must complete 80 credits of formal courses and research workshops. There are four compulsory courses for PhD students:

• Radiative processes
• Galaxies
• Galactic astronomy
• Observational astronomy

Additionally, students must take and pass all courses in those subjects in which they are weak. The Freshman Committee will advise students on the courses to take. Students must also begin their research experience during the first year. The completion of the Thesis must correspond to a minimum of 120 credits.

Admission

Once the announcement is published on the Department’s website, applications will begin to be accepted (see dates below). Results will be communicated via email during the month following the end of the application period, and classes will begin in March of the following year.

Application requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Science, with a major in Astronomy or a related field

• Letter of intent

• Curriculum Vitae

• Academic transcripts

• Two letters of recommendation

• Program of studies, if the applicant comes from a different university

All faculty members of the Department may review the applications (unless there is a conflict of interest), but the Teaching Committee will be responsible for selecting the best candidates based on their academic merits, according to the following criteria:

• 60% Academic background: A score will be assigned based on the CV, transcripts, degree, curriculum, and letters of recommendation.

• 40% Motivation and aptitude for the program: A score will be assigned based on the letter of intent, letters of recommendation, and CV.

Proficiency in English at a technical level is mandatory. This is evaluated during a personal interview if the candidate does not hold an official certification (TOEFL, IELTS, or certification issued by the FCFM or similar institution).

Applications for the 2025 Doctoral Program will be open from August 1 to September 26, 2025. Candidates must select the program of interest and complete the application form, attaching all required documents.

For more information, please contact Marta Ojeda at mojeda@das.uchile.cl.