Since ancient times, celestial mysteries have fascinated mankind. In contrast to the earliest observers of the sky, contemporary astronomers have tools to observe more of the Universe than is visible to the naked eye. For example, only during the past few decades has it become possible to study the large scale structure and evolution of the Universe, as well as planetary systems around nearby stars. For the first time it is now possible to scientifically study and debate both the origin of the Universe and the possibility of extraterrestrial life.

All astronomy rests on a solid base of physics. Astronomical observations were an important part in the development which led to the birth of modern science almost four centuries ago. Contemporary astronomy again highlights this connection, as several of the most fundamental questions in physics can be answered through direct astronomical observations.

The Department of Astronomy offers courses at all levels. If you are interested on a general level, we give a number of overview courses in astronomy. These courses are given in Swedish, and do not require previous studies in mathematics or physics.

For students wishing to learn the physical foundation of astronomy, we offer a Bachelor’s program in Astronomy. During the three-year program you will study physics and mathematics, and their applications in astronomy.

For those who already have a Bachelor’s degree in astronomy/physics (or the equivalent) we offer a number of second level courses. They cover all major areas of astronomy, and are the main part of our Master’s program in Astronomy. The advanced courses are given in English, as is the Master’s program.

Astronomers work in many varying areas, including teaching, computing and image processing. The Master’s program also offers a good foundation for PhD studies.

Biology means the study of life and living organisms including their structure, function, growth, origin, evolution, distribution, diversity, their interaction with their environment and their presence in time and space. There are many subdivisions and topics within Biology such as: molecular biology, cell biology, microbiology, genetics, botany, zoology, ethology, faunistics, floristics and ecology. An education in biology not only gives you basic knowledge in biology, but also an understanding of relationships between structure and function on various biological levels and it also gives you a grasp of the processes that control the evolution of the organism. Biology is an experimental subject, meaning it alternates theoretical studies with practical exercises such as laboratory work and field trips. Examples of laboratory work include analyzing DNA molecules, producing bacteria or studying preparations of various tissues under a microscope. Dissections and experiments with living organisms are a part of an education in biology, however, an option without animal experiments within the zoology moments is also available. You will be able to study animals and plants in their natural habitats as well as participate in practical ecological field work through different field trips and excursions. Stockholm University has access to three field stations located in interesting nature areas: Tovetorp in Södermanland, Askö in Trosa Archipelago and Tjärnö on the west coast of Sweden.