Astronomy: Astrophysics of Stars

The course gives an introduction to observational and theoretical aspects of the astrophysics of stars, and transient phenomena of stellar origin. You will learn about the different ways in which astronomers use telescopes to observe stars, and what we can derive from these observations.

In this course, you will also learn how the internal workings of stars can be inferred from basic physics and connected to astronomical observations. You will explore the behaviour of two-star “binary” systems and see how they are related to compact objects such as neutron stars and black holes, and cosmic sources of X-rays, gamma rays and gravitational waves.

The teaching consists of lectures and problem-based learning sessions where you work with other students to solve astronomical problems. You will plan and carry out your own observations of the night sky, which will give you practical experience of using telescopes and interpreting the data from them.

Examination consists of through written reports from the observational and problem-based learning sessions, and a final written exam.

Understanding stars gives you the foundation to study the Milky Way, more distant galaxies, and cosmology, the study of the Universe as a whole. Additionally, the course is a good preparation for many aspects of a bachelor degree project in astrophysics.

Entry requirements

For admission to the course 105 credits in physics or/and mathematics studies is required, and proficiency in English equivalent to English 6/B from Swedish upper secondary school.

Selection criteria

Seats are allocated according to: The general average (GPA) of your higher secondary school leaving certificate: 20 %, The Swedish national university aptitude test: 10 %, number of previous ECTS at application deadline (up to 165): 70 %.

Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA citizens

Citizens of countries outside:

• The European Union (EU)
• The European Economic Area (EEA) and
• Switzerland

are required to pay tuition fees. You pay an instalment of the tuition fee in advance of each
semester.

Tuition fees, payments and exemptions

Full programme/course tuition fee: SEK 23,125
First payment: SEK 23,125

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Note that you may also need to pay an application fee, or provide proof of exemption.

Application fee

No tuition fees for citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland

There are no tuition fees for citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.