Astronomia - Wydział Fizyki, Astronomii i Informatyki Stosowanej
Astronomy
Astronomy is one of the oldest natural sciences. It is concerned with the study of objects and phenomena occurring throughout the Universe – from bodies within the Solar System to the most distant galaxies, as well as the structure and evolution of the cosmos itself.
Modern astronomy combines methods from physics, mathematics and computer science with data obtained from ground-based and space-based observatories, gravitational-wave detectors and experiments investigating cosmic radiation.
Astronomy at Jagiellonian University has a long and distinguished tradition. Its history dates back to the fifteenth century, when a chair of mathematics and astronomy was established at the University of Kraków. Nicolaus Copernicus, who began his studies at the University in 1491, was among its most famous students.
The programme is offered by the Astronomical Observatory of Jagiellonian University, where teaching is closely integrated with research conducted in collaboration with national and international scientific institutions.
What will students learn?
The Bachelor's programme lasts three years and provides a foundation in astronomy, physics, mathematics and computer science.
The curriculum includes courses in:
- general astronomy,
- spherical astronomy,
- mathematical analysis,
- algebra,
- mechanics,
- thermodynamics,
- electricity and magnetism,
- optics,
- structure of matter,
- experimental physics.
Specialised courses include:
- multiwavelength astronomical observations,
- radio astronomy,
- electrodynamics,
- quantum physics,
- classical and relativistic mechanics,
- physics of planetary systems.
The programme also includes computer science courses, English language classes, selected humanities courses and physical education.
An important component of the programme is a compulsory professional placement carried out at astronomical or astrophysical institutions.
The Master's programme lasts two years and is open to graduates of science and technology programmes, particularly astronomy, physics, mathematics, computer science, chemistry and interdisciplinary science programmes.
The curriculum includes advanced courses in astronomy and theoretical physics, including:
- celestial mechanics,
- general relativity,
- theoretical astrophysics,
- observational astrophysics,
- high-energy astrophysics,
- radiation mechanisms,
- extragalactic astronomy,
- cosmology.
Students also learn methods of data processing, scientific visualisation and computer simulations used in contemporary astrophysics.
Research Activities
Researchers at the Astronomical Observatory conduct studies in areas including:
- Solar System bodies,
- stars at different stages of evolution,
- magnetic fields,
- interstellar matter,
- black holes,
- accretion discs,
- quasars,
- galaxies,
- the formation of large-scale structures,
- the evolution of the Universe.
Research is carried out using data obtained from international observational facilities, including:
- LOFAR,
- SALT,
- HESS.
Students have the opportunity to become involved in research projects and scientific activities during their studies.
Why study Astronomy at Jagiellonian University?
Astronomy at Jagiellonian University combines a long academic tradition with participation in modern research projects conducted in collaboration with institutions around the world.
The programme provides a strong foundation in astronomy, physics, mathematics and computer science while introducing students to methods used in contemporary observational and theoretical research.
An important feature of the programme is the opportunity to engage directly with scientific research carried out at the Astronomical Observatory.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of Astronomy find employment in:
- astronomical observatories,
- research institutes,
- organisations involved in satellite observations,
- institutions specialising in data analysis,
- teams working on computational modelling,
- planetariums,
- science centres,
- science communication and outreach institutions,
- education, after obtaining the required teaching qualifications.
The skills developed during the programme – including data analysis, mathematical modelling, programming and solving complex problems – are highly transferable and valued both within and beyond academia.
Graduates of the Master's programme may continue their education at the Doctoral School in Exact and Natural Sciences of Jagiellonian University.
The Astronomical Observatory is also actively involved in science outreach and public engagement through initiatives such as “Evenings with the Stars”, “Researchers’ Night” and the “Astrolabium” competition.