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About Astronomy Study Program ITB
Astronomy Study Program ITB
The Astronomy Study Programmes at Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) is a unique and prestigious academic programmes, being the only one of its kind in Indonesia and a pioneer in Southeast Asia. While many graduates pursue careers as researchers or university lecturers, the analytical and computational skills gained (big data analysis, complex modeling) allow alumni to enter diverse fields: Data Science & AI, Science Communication, and Public Outreach.
Part of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA), the program is deeply integrated with the historic yet continuously progressing Bosscha Observatory. The VGOS (VLBI Global Observing System) is one of the most ambitious technological leaps currently happening within the Astronomy ITB. It represents Indonesia's entry into the next generation of radio astronomy and geodetic research. As of early 2026, the project has reached several major milestones, establishing the ITB Bosscha VLBI Station as a critical node in a global network.
The study programmes offer a comprehensive pathway from undergraduate to doctoral levels. The curricula are designed to transform a passion for stars into a rigorous scientific discipline.
Undergraduate Programme in Astronomy
Requires a minimum of 144 credits (4 year programme, 1 credit = 45 hours per semester).
The core subjects include Solar System, Stellar Physics, Physics of the Galaxy, as well as Introduction to Cosmology which require fundamental knowledge such as astrophysics, positional astronomy, mechanics, electromagnetic field, hydrodynamics, statistical and quantum physics. Students are also prepared with mathematical as well as computational methods. With the availability of abundant observational data, mastery of knowledge and skills related to big data, coding/computational thinking, statistics, and artificial intelligence is required. Astronomy is also increasingly becoming a multidisciplinary science (astrochemistry, astrobiology, radio astronomy, ethnoastronomy, archeoastronomy, astro-tourism, instrumentation). Those knowledge and skills are made available as elective courses or bachelor thesis topics.
Master Programme in Astronomy
Offers specialization in Advanced Astrophysics (research-oriented) and Astronomy Development & Education.
The core subjects encompass advanced topics such as Astronomy Laboratory, Development of Astronomy, Stellar Physics, Physics of the Solar System, Physics of the Galaxy, and Cosmology. Students are deeply prepared with advanced mathematical, statistical, and computational methods. With the availability of massive observational data from global telescope networks and space missions, mastery of skills related to big data management, coding/computational thinking, and the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is highly emphasized. Astronomy is also increasingly recognized as a multidisciplinary science. Therefore, knowledge and skills in fields like astrochemistry, astrobiology, space exploration, astronomy communication, and STEM learning are made available as elective courses or master's thesis topics.
Doctoral Programme in Astronomy
Focuses on original research and significant contributions to the field.
