Academics // Master

Master

Astronomy Master’s Program (S2)

The Master’s Program in Astronomy has been established since 23 February 1998 and is currently accredited with the highest distinction, “Unggul”, by the Independent Accreditation Agency for Natural Sciences and Formal Sciences (LAMSAMA)This accreditation is valid from 26 February 2026 to 25 February 2031 (Decree Number: 010/SK/LAMSAMA/Akred/M/II/2026).

This program offers advanced academic training for graduates of bachelor’s programs in astronomy, physics, mathematics, and related sciences, as well as those from other supporting fields such as physics education, geography, archaeology, and journalism.

Program Orientation

The Master’s Program in Astronomy is structured into two main orientations:

  1. Advanced Astrophysics
    This track builds upon undergraduate-level astronomy education by offering deeper studies in astrophysics, with a strong emphasis on preparing students for careers as researchers or scientists.

  2. Astronomy Development and Education
    This track focuses on exploring and developing systems that support the future of astronomy in Indonesia, including examining its broader impact on society.

Program Educational Objectives

The Graduate Program in Astronomy (GPA) at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA), ITB, aims to produce graduates who are experts in the field of astronomy and astrophysics. The objectives of the GPA are to prepare graduates who:

  1. master astronomical knowledge and methodology, are active in research and/or produce innovative works for the advancement of science and technology;
  2. open-minded and critical, communicative, have integrity, show initiative, are adaptive to the times, and are ready to develop themselves;
  3. perform as scientists, educators, learners at higher levels, science practitioners (journalists, communicators), industry practitioners (data scientists, system analysts), or entrepreneurs.

These objectives are in alignment with the global academic and research standards in astronomy and are consistent with the mission of ITB and FMIPA. The program’s objectives aim to foster a strong foundation in theoretical and applied astronomy, develop essential research skills, and prepare graduates to be leaders in the advancement of astronomical and astrophysical sciences.

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)

Students who have completed their Graduate Program in Astronomy (Master of Science, M.Sc.) are able to:

  1. To understand fundamental concepts profoundly and integratively, and to implement relevant concepts of astronomy/astrophysics in addressing challenges.
  2. To solve astronomical/astrophysical problems using appropriate methods, referring to up-to-date knowledge, and considering multidisciplinary aspects.
  3. To actively contribute to scientific research and/or relevant communities in advancing astronomy and astrophysics.
  4. To engage in lifelong learning and disseminate acquired knowledge.

Graduate Outcomes

Graduates of the Master’s Program in Astronomy are well-regarded by academic institutions both nationally and internationally. Many continue their studies at prestigious universities abroad, where their academic performance is highly appreciated. Alumni have pursued careers as researchers, university lecturers, globally-minded high school teachers, and science communicators in leading media organizations. They are widely recognized and entrusted with developing and managing outstanding programs within their respective institutions.

Curriculum

Admission

Detail information about admission and requirements are available here:

Courses and Syllabus

Full course list and syllabus:

Study Roadmap

Select to Highlight Courses

Study Semester
Semester 1
Semester 2
Semester 3
Semester 4
Compulsory Courses
Vertical & horizontal alignment ensures coherence and continuity of curriculum content across semesters.
  • Research Methodology and Digital Literacy
  • Stellar Physics
  • Stars
  • Physics of Solar System
  • Motion and Position of Celestial Bodies
  • Independent Research 1
  • Thesis Proposal
  • Astronomy Development
  • Astronomy Laboratory
  • Cosmology
  • Solar System
  • Physics of Galaxies
  • Galaxies and the Universe
  • Independent Research 2
  • Thesis Progress
  • Thesis 1
  • Thesis
  • Thesis 2
  • Thesis Extension (Buffer Semester)

Elective

Elective Studies allow students to expand their knowledge and gain new skills in areas of personal interest. These optional courses are provided to enhance student learning beyond the standard requirements.

Elective Studies listed here are only those provided by Astronomy Graduate Program. Students can also take elective studies from other study programmes at ITB.

  • Topics in Computational Astrophysics
  • Astrochemistry
  • Astronomical Techniques
  • Independent Research (3,4,5,6)
  • Introduction to High Energy Astrophysics
  • Theory and Observation of Stars
  • Molecular Astrophysics
  • Philosophy of Science A
  • History of Astronomy
  • Time
  • Astronomy A
  • Capita Selecta in Stellar Physics
  • Binary Stars
  • Astrobiology
  • Heliophysics
  • Space Exploration
  • Earth Moon and Sun System
  • Small Solar System Bodies
  • Capita Selecta in Galaxy and Cosmology
  • Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
  • Development of Astronomical Demonstration Tools