Course Overview
The Astronomy MPhil degree is exclusively by research and there is no taught element.
The aims of the programme are:
- to give students with relevant experience at first-degree level the opportunity to carry out focused research in the discipline under close supervision; and
- to give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests.
How to Apply
Formal application for the MPhil at the Institute of Astronomy must be made via the University Postgraduate Admissions Office’s Applicant Portal, which will open on 9 September 2026 for entry in 2027.
Applicants should have, or expect to receive, a Good II.i Honours Degree, normally in Physics, Mathematics or Astronomy.
DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS IS 13 MAY 2027.
To track your application and for details of the costs involved, please visit the Application Portal.
Applicants wishing to be considered for University Funding should tick the 'Apply for funding' box when completing the University Application Form and apply before the funding application deadline of 8 December 2026. Research council funding is not available for this course. There may also be other funding opportunities available, please use the Postgraduate Funding Search to explore other options.
If, after reading the online material, you have additional queries about the admissions process please email our admissions team (admissions@ast.cam.ac.uk).
It is not necessary to secure a supervisor before applying, however all applicants must review the list of potential supervisors on the Institute of Astronomy website to gain an overview of the supervisors and research topics available. Applicants should then specify up to three preferred supervisors and research topics in their application (Statement of Interest). Failure to identify at least one potential supervisor may disadvantage your application.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the programme, students will have:
-
a comprehensive understanding of techniques and a thorough knowledge of the literature applicable to their own research
- demonstrated originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field
- shown abilities in the critical evaluation of current research and research techniques and methodologies
- demonstrated some self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research
Assessment
Thesis / Dissertation
The examination requirement for the MPhil is a thesis of not more than 15,000 words in length, exclusive of tables, footnotes, bibliography, and appendices, on a subject approved by the Degree Committee for the Faculty of Physics and Chemistry.
The examination shall include a viva (oral examination) with two examiners on the thesis and the general field of knowledge within which it falls. The thesis shall provide evidence to satisfy the examiners that the candidate can design and carry out investigations, assess and interpret the results obtained, and place the work in the wider perspective of the subject.