Laurea Magistrale (Second cycle degree/Two year Master - 120 ECTS) in Astrophysics and Cosmology

The specific outcomes of the second cycle degree programme in Astrophysics and Cosmology is to train astronomers/astrophysicists with solid competencies in the fields of astrophysics, cosmology and space physics. Students will acquire appropriate training to continue with their studies in a PhD programme degree in Astrophysics or similar subjects, allowing them to enter the world of fundamental research in universities and research bodies.

For this purpose, the second cycle degree programme in Astrophysics and Cosmology offers learning activities in three areas of learning: 

• Astrophysics, aiming to acquire in-depth and updated knowledge of astrophysics, using all the information deriving from the whole electromagnetic spectrum, from radio waves to ultra-high energies;
• Cosmology, aiming to acquire in-depth and updated knowledge of cosmology, closely connected in theoretical terms with General Relativity and Nuclear and Sub-nuclear Physics;
• Astronomic and space instrumentation: aiming to acquire in-depth and updated knowledge of modern astronomic instruments required for the observational study of current astrophysical problems, also through direct experience in advanced laboratories.

The second cycle degree programme also envisages:

• workshops and laboratories, to develop practical competencies in the most recent and sophisticated experimental and measuring methods, data analysis and processing, numeric calculus;
• the possibility to take part in external activities such as internships in research bodies, companies and private facilities or the public administration, as well as study periods in other Italian or foreign universities, also within the framework of international agreements. In any case, this training must allow students to enter the world of work, in industry (computing, aerospace, optics, electronics, mechanics) and the tertiary sector (data analysis), having acquired the mathematical, physical, computing, logical and statistical skills required for Research and Development (R&D);
• transversal activities aiming to develop scientific design and communication abilities;
• a final examination, involving the production of an original project which can be developed in a research group in the Department or other departments at the University, other universities, public or private bodies, in Italy or abroad, also within the framework of international agreements.

KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING

Graduates will:

• acquire a solid mastery of the scientific method of investigation;
• possess in-depth and comprehensive theoretical and observational knowledge in the fields of astronomy, astrophysics, cosmology, and space physics;
• demonstrate understanding of fundamental astrophysical systems and the physical principles underlying astrophysical phenomena;
• be familiar with the main theoretical models describing the Universe and its evolution;
• have specific expertise in the use of modern observational techniques and instrumentation, as well as data acquisition, analysis procedures, and modelling tools;
• possess solid knowledge of the mathematical and computational tools required to support scientific research in the field.

These skills are mainly developed through lectures, laboratory work, seminars, and individual study.
They are assessed through examinations that may include written and/or oral tests.

APPLYING KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING

Graduates will be able to:

• describe astrophysical and cosmological phenomena with both qualitative and quantitative approaches, within a solid theoretical framework;
• solve problems in various areas of astrophysics and cosmology using appropriate analytical or numerical methods;
• contribute to the design, development, and calibration of astrophysical instrumentation;
• independently develop theoretical models of complex systems in astrophysics, cosmology, and space physics, using high-performance computing tools;
• apply the scientific method to explore new phenomena;
• understand and operate modern scientific instruments and measurement systems;
• analyse large datasets using rigorous scientific methodology and provide consistent interpretations;
• use scientific software and programming languages to address astrophysical problems.

Graduates will also:

• develop effective communication and information management skills;
• be able to independently update their knowledge and skills;
• work both independently and collaboratively, adapting to diverse working environments, including international contexts.

These skills are developed through lab sessions, practical exercises, and individual study.
Assessment methods include written exercises, oral presentations, reports, and project work.

MAKING JUDGEMENTS

Graduates will be able to:

• identify and formulate scientific problems and propose reasoned solutions;
• assess the quality and reliability of observational and experimental data;
• make informed evaluations also beyond strictly scientific contexts;
• express critical judgements, including ethical considerations, based on integrated analysis of scientific and non-scientific factors;
• set goals and work effectively towards them, both individually and within a team.

These skills are primarily developed through exercises, projects, and especially during the preparation of the final thesis.
Judgement abilities are assessed through evaluation of students’ autonomy, critical thinking, and teamwork during project work and thesis research.

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Graduates will:

• be able to present scientific content effectively using written reports, oral presentations, graphics, and multimedia tools;
• communicate information, ideas, issues, and solutions related to scientific topics at an advanced level;
• demonstrate team-working abilities and coordination skills in multidisciplinary and international environments.

These skills are developed through various learning activities such as written or oral assignments, project presentations, seminar participation, and group work.
Assessment includes presentations, written reports, participation in discussions, and the use of digital tools during academic activities.

LEARNING SKILLS

Graduates will:

• develop the learning skills needed for further study (e.g., PhD programmes) or ongoing professional development;
• adapt quickly to new research areas and evolving technologies;
• consult and interpret bibliographic sources, scientific databases, and online resources independently.

These skills are fostered throughout the programme via autonomous study, tutorial support, bibliographic research, seminar discussions, and project-based learning.
Assessment includes the development of individual and group projects, thesis work, and evaluation of self-directed learning abilities, particularly during the final examination process.