Doctor of Science, Astronomy Mention

The Doctorate in Sciences, mention in Astronomy, trains highly specialized graduates with a solid scientific background that enables them to autonomously generate original research in the field of astrophysics. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to integrate advanced theoretical knowledge with experimental, computational, or technological methodologies aimed at solving complex problems in astronomy. They will possess the skills to communicate their scientific results to specialized audiences through scientific articles in indexed journals and academic forums within their specialty. They will be able to pursue professional career paths focused on research, whether in universities, research centers, or astronomical observatories, in both national and international environments, integrating into multidisciplinary work teams. They may also work in national or international public or private organizations that utilize technology and data analysis for their operations in areas related to the field of study.

Program description

The Doctorate in Sciences, mention in Astronomy, aims to train high-level researchers capable of making original and independent contributions to the knowledge of the Universe through a solid mastery of contemporary astrophysics.

Through the completion of an original doctoral thesis, the program seeks to develop autonomous research that applies advanced methodologies for the analysis of astronomical data from cutting-edge instrumentation in astronomical observatories, or performs theoretical and/or numerical modeling of different astrophysical processes using advanced computing techniques, or develops new astronomical instrumentation to expand the understanding of astrophysical phenomena.

This Program promotes excellence in research in accordance with the mission of the Universidad de Chile, strengthening our country's leadership as a strategic hub for astronomy worldwide.

Program information

Decree number: 0014852/2011
Coordinator: Prof. Laura Pérez
Application dates: August 3 to September 25 ,2026.
Yearly tuition cost: 200 UF
Annual registration fee: $ 243.900
More information: postgrado@das.uchile.cl

Accreditation

Our Doctorate program is ACCREDITED for seven years, from june 2019 to june 2026, by the National Accreditation Commission (CNA-Chile).

Scholarships

The State of Chile offers various scholarships to Chilean and foreign students through the National Agency of Research and Development (ANID)

Graduate Profile

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

The program’s curriculum consists of a set of semester-based, mandatory, and elective curricular activities, which include the preparation of a thesis and a degree examination. This plan will be proposed by the student and approved by the Program’s Academic Committee.

Students must complete 80 SCT of courses, of which the following are mandatory:

Radiative Processes
Galactic Astronomy
Galaxies
Observational Astronomy

In addition to completing 120 SCT of Thesis Work.”

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 2026 Doctoral Program will be open from August 3 to September 25, 2026. 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

Admission form