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Astronomical Instrumentation and Technology (Structured MSc)

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Course Overview
Key Facts
Course Outline
Why Choose This Course?
Course Fees
Find Out More

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Course Overview

This master's programme will provide students with an in-depth understanding of the technology used in modern astronomical observatories through taught courses and a research project. It will prepare students to effectively carry out PhDs in either the development of new astronomical instrumentation or in the use of data and images from these facilities. A combination of core modules on astronomical instrumentation, as well as transferable skills and specific engineering modules in technologies such as computing, electronics and control will also enhance the employability of graduates of this Structured MSc.

Click for more information on the MSc Astronomical Instrumentation.

Applications and Selections

Applications are made online via the University of Galway Postgraduate Applications System. Candidates are required to provide full CV and personal statement and the names of two academic references.

Who Teaches this Course

Staff members of The Centre for Astronomy and the Applied Optics group, both under the School of Physics.

Requirements and Assessment

Key Facts

Entry Requirements

2.1 degree in physics or relevant engineering discipline. Candidates are required to provide full CV and personal statement and the names of two academic references.

Additional Requirements

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Duration

1 year, full-time

Next start date

September 2025

A Level Grades ()

Average intake

QQI/FET FETAC Entry Routes

Closing Date

No set closing date. Offers made on a continuous basis

NFQ level

Mode of study

ECTS weighting

Award

CAO

Course code

MSC-AIT

Course Outline

The 12-month programme will have a research project (60 ECTS) and taught components (30 ECTS). The taught component will consist of 30 credits of core modules specifically related to astronomical instrumentation. The remaining 30 credits correspond to modules in transferable skills (10 credits) plus Engineering modules relevant to astronomical instrumentation and astrophysics modules.

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Why Choose This Course?

Career Opportunities

This master's will provide students with an in-depth understanding of the technology used in modern astronomical observatories. As such graduates of the proposed MSc programme will in demand by national and international technological industries as well as by research institutes, observatories and University research groups. The combination of advanced modules and a research project leading to a thesis will also effectively bridge the gap between undergraduate study and a PhD.

Who’s Suited to This Course

Learning Outcomes

Transferable Skills Employers Value

Work Placement

Study Abroad

Related Student Organisations

Course Fees

Fees: EU

€8,750 p.a. (€8,890 including levy) 2025/26

Fees: Tuition

€8,750 p.a. 2025/26

Fees: Student levy

€140 p.a. 2025/26

Fees: Non EU

€28,000 p.a. (€28,140 including levy) 2025/26

For 25/26 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 3.4% per annum for continuing years fees.

Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,000 towards your tuition (2025/26). You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee. A P1 grant is where SUSI will pay tuition up to a maximum of €6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of €140.

Note to non-EU students: learn about the 24-month Stayback Visa here.