Astronomy is a field of Earth Sciences and Space employing physical measurements and mathematical models to explore, analyze and understand the structure and dynamics of the Cosmos, from our very own Solar System to our galaxy - The Milky Way, extending to the Large-scale structures (LSSs) of the universe. The complexity of these systems, along with the inherent difficulties of observing and measuring large-scale natural processes (spatial & temporal), poses formidable challenges that astronomers grapple integrating theory with numerical modeling and data collection acquired using sophisticated detections and measurements.

Since its founding, the Department of Astronomy (DAS) has led the training of national scientists, focussing on the development of Chilean astronomers. The first generation of Chilean researchers infact obtained a Bachelors in Astronomy (founded in 1965) in DAS. The current undergraduate program is under a Joint Plan between DAS and the Faculty of Physical Sciences and Mathematics at the University of Chile.

Objectives of the program

The goal of the Undergraduate Program is to train graduates to the highest academic level with a solid foundation in mathematics, physics, astronomy and scientific research methods, allowing students to undertake graduate studies in astronomy or related sciences in Chile and elsewhere in the world.

Students graduating from our Curriculum obtain the academic degree of Bachelor of Astronomy and will be able to succeed in a graduate program in astronomy or physics, to develop different skills:

• Self-learning ability
• Ability to work in teams, including multidisciplinary teams
• Effective written, oral and graphical communication skills
• Demonstrate ethical behavior

Moreover, our graduates will have the

• ability to apply his strong background in basic physical sciences and mathematics to solve basic problems in astronomy
• capacity of current technologies related to astronomy, applicable to their professional performance

Admission

Students must undergo the University Selection Test (PSU) to enter the degree program. The weights for calculating the score are:

• 20% - Average of scores obtained in the previous education
• 50% - University Selection Test (PSU) Mathematics
• 10% - University Selection Test (PSU) Language
• 20% - University Selection Test (PSU) Science

It is essential that the candidate feel a real interest in the mysteries of the universe and a passion for science subjects and math skills. Click here (in Spanish) for further information.

To read more about special admissions, funding, and fee structure click here (in Spanish).

Programme structure

Our undergraduate program lasts for eight semesters, with the first two years (I-IV Semester) in the Faculty of Physical Sciences and Mathematics under the Joint Plan. From then onwards (V - VIII semester) the courses correspond to specific field of specialization. The curriculum is focused mainly on meeting the objectives specified above. Click here to view a chart depicting the course structure.

The following schedule has been approved by the school and currently followed for the elective courses. The student must have completed at least 20 elective UDs - AS 3000 level or higher, and the remaining (30 UDs) from the following departments: AS, FI, MA, CC, IQ, GF, GL, EL, ME, BT, all 3000 level or above. Courses with codes not listed in the foregoing shall not be deemed valid as electives for the Bachelors in Astronomy.

Elective courses in DAS for a Bachelors in Astronomy *

Name	Code	UD
Contemporary Astronomy **	AS2020	5
Topics of Astronomy **	AS2030	5
General Astronomy **	AS2001	10
Astrobiology **	AS2002	10
Planetary sciences	AS3001	10
Interstellar medium	AS3002	10
Introduction to Cosmology	AS3003	10
Intergalactic medium	AS3004	10
Research workshop I	AS4107	10
Research workshop II	AS4108	10

* Not all courses are offered in each semester. Click here to view the course catalogue.
** Other elective courses are valid for other subject areas except for the Bachelors in astronomy.

As a common plan general astronomy course is strongly recommended for students interested in our Bachelors. Students potentially interested in pursuing a graduate degree in astronomy are strongly advised to take the research courses I and II. Click here to view the old curriculum.

Minor is Astronomy

One of the great strengths of our Bachelors is that students may choose to specizlize (minor) in several areas of engineering and physical sciences and mathematics through elective courses during the tenure of the course.

Note: It is to be noted that our program is the only accredited degree in Astronomy in Chile by National Accreditation Commission until 2016.