College of Arts and Sciences
Astronomy (Ph.D.)
College of Arts and Sciences
Astronomy (Ph.D.)
From Research to the Edge of Space — Earn Your Ph.D. in Astronomy at NMSU
The Ph.D. in Astronomy at NMSU is a rigorous doctoral program designed for scholars ready to push the frontiers of cosmic understanding. Coursework and research span stellar and planetary systems, interstellar medium, extragalactic objects, cosmology, instrumentation, and observational astronomy. Leveraging NMSU’s strategic location and partnerships, doctoral students engage in high-impact research with advanced telescopes, satellite data, modeling of planetary interiors, and large-scale structure of the universe — working alongside faculty and global collaborators.
Admission Deadlines
December 15 for fall admission
- Total course hours: 47
- Total dissertation credits: 18
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
A Ph.D. in Astronomy from NMSU opens doors to leadership roles in research, academia, and high-tech science industries. Potential career trajectories include:
- University professor or principal investigator in astronomy or astrophysics
- Senior researcher at observatories, space agencies (e.g., NASA) or national labs
- Instrumentation scientist or systems architect for future space missions
- Data science lead in remote sensing, Earth & space systems, or aerospace companies
- Science policy advisor or consultant shaping national or international space strategy
- Director of observatory operations or advanced satellite mission programs
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Doctor of Philosophy in Astronomy? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose a Ph.D., in Astronomy at NMSU?
Opting for NMSU’s Ph.D. in Astronomy means becoming part of a focused, research-rich environment that emphasizes mentoring, publication readiness, and global collaboration. With the department’s access to exceptional sky conditions, instrumentation, and international partnerships, you’ll be uniquely positioned to produce original research and lead innovation in astronomy.
No GRE Required
We’re removing barriers to graduate education, which is why we don’t require the GRE.
NMSU's Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Astronomy requires at least 33 traditional course credits and four seminar credits, totaling 37 course credits, plus research and dissertation credits. Students must complete four semesters of the one-credit ASTR 500 Seminar, 27 credits from at least nine graduate-level courses, six pre-dissertation research credits (ASTR 600), and 18 dissertation credits (ASTR 700).
Take classes like:
- ASTR 503 - Fundamentals of Astrophysics
- ASTR 503 - Fundamentals of Astrophysics ASTR 506 - Dynamics and Hydrodynamics
- ASTR 670- Heliophysics, Space Plasmas, and Space Weather
- ASTR 605 - Interstellar Medium
- PHYS 462 - Intermediate Electricity and Magnetism II
- EE 528 - Fundamentals of Photonics
GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required for admission.
Prerequisites: A bachelor's degree in physics, astronomy, or a related field with appropriate background in physics and mathematics.
Application: The application includes a statement of interest, transcripts, and three letters of recommendation.
Residency: A minimum of 50% of the degree coursework must be taken at NMSU.
Ready to take the next step?
Request Information
Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.