Overview

The Astrophysics programme at Columbia University offers students a deep immersion into the quantitative models of the universe, covering galaxies, stars, and planetary systems. This major is specifically designed to prepare undergraduates for advanced graduate study through a demanding sequence of physics and mathematics. By combining theoretical coursework with practical research opportunities, the university ensures graduates are equipped for professional scientific inquiry.

Why Astrophysics at Columbia University?

Students benefit from the university's historic Department of Astronomy, which provides access to rooftop telescope facilities at Pupin Labs and the Harriman Observatory. The programme emphasises individualised advising and early involvement in research, allowing students to work alongside faculty on cutting-edge projects. Institutional strengths include strong links to the Hayden Planetarium and opportunities for summer fellowships to support independent investigations.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 70170 per year
National fee: USD 70170 per year
Local fee: USD 70170 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires a solid grounding in calculus and a complete introductory physics sequence. Modules may include:

Astrophysics
Mechanics
Electricity-Magnetism
Electromagnetic Waves & Optics
Quantum Mechanics
High Energy Astrophysics
Observational Astronomy
Astrostatistics
Planetary Dynamics and Physics of the Solar System

Careers with Astrophysics

Graduates are primarily prepared for doctoral research and academic careers in astronomy and space sciences. The analytical and computational skills developed during the programme also enable graduates to pursue roles in data science, aerospace, and quantitative finance. Many students transition into research positions at national observatories or space agencies, utilising their experience in scientific computing and observational techniques.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Earth, Moon and Planets

Another Earth

Stars, Galaxies, and Cosmology

Stars and Atoms

Order of Magnitude Astrophysics

Astrostatistics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

135

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TOEFL^® IBT

105

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IELTS

7.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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Credits

124 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Manhattan, United States

Disciplines

Physics Astronomy & Space Sciences View 1440 other Bachelors in Physics in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

135

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

105

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Autobiographical information

Lists and descriptions of a student’s achievements, activities, employment and summer activities

Personal essay

An official high school transcript from all high schools attended

One high school counselor’s recommendation and school profile

The completed Mid-Year Report

SAT or ACT

Applicants may self-report their scores

English proficiency examination score (if necessary)

These recommendations must come from teachers who taught you in academic disciplines

For engineering applicants, one must come from a math or science teacher

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year
Out-of-State

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year

Living costs

Manhattan

United States

2638 - 5751 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Astrophysics.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Manhattan

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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