Astrophysics University of Potsdam

Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics (AIP), Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY), Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (AEI)

All courses are taught in English.

The research-oriented Master's degree programme in Astrophysics conveys comprehensive knowledge about the structure and evolution of the universe and its constituents. You will gain a profound understanding of the many complex physical processes that provide the foundation to explain cosmic phenomena. You will also develop a methodological toolkit that enables you to explore and analyse these phenomena. Subject-specific competences in the programme include the discipline's core fields (stars, stellar evolution, galaxies, cosmology) and a variety of more specialised topics (for example: galaxy clusters and large-scale structures, interstellar and intergalactic gas, stellar winds, solar physics, cosmic magnetic fields, planetary science, astroparticle physics, gravitational waves, astronomical instrumentation and observation methods, computer simulations, and others).

Information about the dates and deadlines can be found here.

Information about the application deadlines can be found here.

Join our online Master's Info Day on 13 March 2026 to learn about the Master’s programmes, career prospectives, and life in Potsdam.

All information on course content and structure can be found here.

No tuition fees

No tuition is charged for studying at the University of Potsdam (with the exception of a few continuing education courses). However, there is an administrative fee that includes a semester ticket entitling you to free use of public transport all over Brandenburg and Berlin as well as regional/local trains all over Germany. 
More information here

The average monthly living expenditures of students at the University of Potsdam are 941 EUR, but this can vary between 600 and 1,100 EUR, largely depending on accommodation. A more detailed list of the average monthly expenditures of our students can be found here.

See here for more information about application and admission requirements.

All information about the language requirements can be found here.

Information about the application deadlines can be found here.

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Job opportunities for students alongside their studies are numerous. Depending on personal and professional skills, students can find jobs in the service sector (e.g. in restaurants, supermarkets, cinemas, museums, theatres, etc.) or work as student research assistants at the University of Potsdam or at one of the many non-university research institutions located in the area. Berlin, the capital city of Germany, is located just around the corner, and students can also find jobs there. Please see this website for further information.

There are several student dormitories in Potsdam. These are administered exclusively by Brandenburg's Association for Student Affairs ("Studierendenwerk West:Brandenburg"). You can apply for a room in one of these dormitories if you are under the age of 30. If you are a Master's student, you can only apply if the degree at the University of Potsdam is your first Master's programme. Additionally, there are also a few private dormitories in Potsdam, to which these conditions do not apply. However, many students prefer to find an apartment in Potsdam or Berlin, which they often share with fellow students. The housing market is very tight, so please start looking for an accommodation as early as possible.

For information on how to register for a dorm room or find accommodation elsewhere, please click here.

The Career Service of the University of Potsdam supports students and graduates who want to actively shape their careers. The aim is to ensure comprehensive career orientation and to provide opportunities for the development of professional skills. The Career Service offers workshops, seminars, and individual counselling. There are information pages on a wide range of occupational fields as well as a database of internships and jobs. Many of the services are also available in English. For more info, visit https://www.uni-potsdam.de/en/career-service

The International Office and the Central Student Advisory Service support international students in preparing for their studies and life in Potsdam.