Astronomy

Astronomy & Astrophysics may be taught as a special course in the M.Sc. programmes of the physics departments in the universities or colleges. It is desirable for a student to acquire proficiency in physics and mathematics at the graduate level and then to Astronomy & Astrophysics specialisation. An engineer with a B.Tech or B.E. degree, with an aptitude for Astronomy and Astrophysics, can also enter the field as a research scholar.
Though it is not necessary to undergo any formal training in Astronomy and Astrophysics at the undergraduate level, it helps the student to develop a general interest in the field, from reading good popular books or as an amateur astronomer. Research Scholars are expected to undergo one year course work in various subjects including Foundations of Classical & Quantum Physics, Mathematical Techniques, Numerical Analysis & Computing, besides introductory courses in Astronomy & Astrophysics. A good PhD. programme takes about four years to complete.

The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) is a premier institute devoted to research in astronomy, astrophysics and related physics. IIA conducts the Integrated M.Tech- Ph.D (Tech.) programme in Astronomical Instrumentation in collaboration with Department of Applied Optics and Photonics, University of Calcutta (CU). The Degree is awarded by the University of Calcutta. The duration of M.Tech course work will be of 2 years divided into 4 semesters. After successful completion of the M. Tech course a student can opt for registration for Ph.D (Tech.) programme, subjected to a selection procedure and minimum cut-off grade.
The Integrated M.Tech- Ph.D (Tech.) Programme admit bright, highly motivated students with a three years B.Tech. degree (Post B.Sc Hons) in Optics and Optoelectronics / Radio Physics and Electronics from CU or B.Tech / BE degree in Electrical/ Instrumentation/ Electronics and Communications /Computer Science and Engineering from an institution recognized by AICTE. A candidate with M.Sc degree in Physics / Electronic Science / Applied Mathematics /Applied Physics from a UGC recognized institution is also eligible to apply.
Institute runs full-time research programme where in the students work towards their Ph.D. degree under the supervision of an IIA faculty. Students may join the programme in either the first semester beginning in August or the second semester beginning in January. Entrance examination is held in December followed by interview in January. Students passing the JEST exam are interviewed in May / June. Eligibility criteria for PhD at IIA is M.Sc in Mathematics / Applied Physics / Applied Mathematics / Optics and Photonics / Instrumentation / Electronics etc. All around excellent academic performance from 12th to PG will help you fulfill your dream.