COURSE CURRICULUM

Leiden University’s Master’s specialisation in Astronomy and Business Studies is a two-year program designed to integrate advanced astronomy research with practical business skills. At the start of the program, students create a Master Study Plan in consultation with the Study Advisor, outlining their courses and projects for the two years. The first year focuses on the Astronomy component, which comprises 60 to 80 EC. This includes core astronomy courses, additional astronomy courses, optional non-astronomy courses, and a Master’s Research Project in Astronomy worth 30 EC. The astronomy curriculum equips students with deep knowledge of observational, theoretical, computational, and experimental methods in modern astronomy.The second year is dedicated to the Science-Based Business component, amounting to 40 to 60 EC. Students follow management courses (15 EC), learn business research methods (5 EC), and select business electives totaling up to 20 EC. This component also includes a management internship, which can range from 20 to 40 EC. Through this combination, students gain analytical frameworks, decision-making skills, and hands-on experience in managerial roles within research and technology-driven organisations.Educational methods across both years are diverse and interactive, including lectures, lab work, individual papers, research projects, presentations, workgroups, seminars, and colloquia. The program emphasizes both independent research and collaborative work, ensuring students develop critical thinking, scientific communication, and project management skills. Upon completion, graduates are prepared to take on managerial responsibilities in high-tech, research-intensive environments, bridging the gap between science and business, and contributing effectively to innovation-driven organisations.