Astronomy and Astrophysics Major

The new Bachelor program in Astronomy and Astrophysics is unique in Switzerland. It provides a foundational education in the fields of Astrophysics, Astronomy, Mathematics, Physics, and Computational Sciences. This includes a deep understanding of the relevant physical laws and mathematical tools essential for astrophysical calculations. Students are also introduced to the research methods and techniques used in astrophysics and astronomy, including the ability to design experiments, analyse data, and establish the prerequisites for advanced scientific research.

Within the program, students develop both observational and computational skills. They learn to work with telescopes and to collect and analyse data from space. At the same time, their computational abilities for modelling and simulating astrophysical phenomena are further developed. The program consists of compulsory, core-elective, and elective modules. The first year primarily includes foundational modules in Mathematics and Physics, as well as an introduction to Astronomy and Scientific Computing. The second year consists of modules in Astrophysics and Astronomy, along with advanced lectures in Physics. In the third year, the focus is on elective modules in Astrophysics and related fields. The students complete their Bachelor with a Bachelor thesis on a topic in Astrophysics, Astronomy, and/or Computational Science.

The Bachelor's program in Astronomy and Astrophysics is offered as a Mono program with 180 ECTS credits and as a Major program with 150 ECTS credits. The latter includes a Minor program comprising 30 ECTS credits, for which the regulations of the respective Minor program are binding.

A selection of courses that are offered at the Bachelor level are listed below:

• Introduction to Astronomy
• The Sun and Planets
• Astronomy Lab: Observing and Measuring the Night Sky
• Astrophysics I: Cosmology and Large-Scale Structures
• Astrophysics II: Galaxies and Interstellar Medium
• Astrophysics III: Stellar Evolution and Planet Formation
• Astrophysical Mechanisc and Fluid Dynamics
• Advanced Observational Astronomy (Field Trip)
• The Science in Science Fiction
• Introduction to Astrobiology
• Computational Astrophysics
• Biosignatures and Life Detection
• Bachelor Thesis in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or Computational Science

Next to specific courses in Astronomy and Astrophysics, the Bachelor will consist of lectures in Mathematics, Physics, and Scientific Computing.

We are currently in the process of establishing a Master Program in Astronomy and Astrophysics as a continuation of the Bachelor program. Alternatively, students interested in Physics will be able to transition to the Master program in Physics. A prerequisite for this is the 30 ECTS Minor in Physics.