Ph.D. in Astronomy

Information for Prospective Students

PhD in Astronomy

The PhD Astronomy program consists of eight lecture-based courses (credit may be given for relevant graduate courses already taken), a graduate seminar series, and a research dissertation. Students can pursue original significant research and become world authorities in any of the areas represented by our faculty members. Our program offers many opportunities for student interaction with faculty and visiting researchers.


The Benefits of Doing a PhD in Astronomy at Saint Mary’s

  • Our faculty are associated with state-of-the-art international observatories and space-based telescopes.
  • We have the Institute for Computational Astrophysics (ICA), with access to the ACEnet high performance computing facility.
  • Our nuclear astrophysics faculty are associated with the TRIUMF particle accelerator.
  • You can participate in hosting weekly visiting colloquium speakers.
  • You’ll have opportunities to gain experience in astronomy education and public outreach through the campus-based Burke-Gaffney Observatory.
  • Enjoy the collegial environment of a medium-sized department.

Admission Requirements

Master of Science degree in Astronomy, Physics, or a related field.

Application Deadlines and Key Dates

  • International: February 1
  • Canadian and Permanent Residents: February 1
  • Program Start Date: September
  • Minimum time to completion: 4 years

Apply Now 


Program Coordinator

Dr. Luigi Gallo
902-420-5637
Atrium 319C
astrogc@ap.smu.ca

Contact Us

Faculty of Graduate Studies & Research
902-420-5089
fgsr@smu.ca
smu.ca/fgsr/

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