The specific learning outcomes of the 1st cycle degree programme in Astronomy is to provide a solid grounding in the field of physics, astronomy, astrophysics and spatial physics, which, although further investigated in 2nd cycle programmes, already allow graduates to enter the labour market in activities requiring familiarity with scientific investigation methods and the ability to use complex methodologies and equipment.

The programme curriculum is characterised by the study of the properties of astronomic objects: stars, galaxies, quasars, large-scale structures of the universe and cosmology. The programme will also provide knowledge not directly linked to Astronomy, including computing, optics and numerical calculus. This knowledge will provide more transversal skills for working professionally. The degree programme enjoys the active collaboration of the Astronomic Observatory, the Institute of Radioastronomy and the Institute of Spatial Astrophysics and Cosmic Physics, all part of the Italian National Institute of Astrophysics (INAF).

Admission to the degree programme is subject to the possession of a five-year secondary school diploma or equivalent suitable qualification obtained abroad, or a four-year secondary school diploma and diploma for the relative supplementary year, or, where no longer active, admitted students will be assigned additional learning requirements.

Applicants must also possess the following knowledge: strong general knowledge; logical reasoning and comprehension skills; strong knowledge of the fundamental notions of mathematics.

The assessment of knowledge is based on the evaluation of the results of an entrance exam. Students will pass the exam only with a score higher than the minimum threshold laid down annually and published on the University Portal.

Students not passing the test will be assigned additional learning requirements (OFA) to be completed within the first year of the programme and in any case in the time limits set by the University.

Additional Learning Requirements are deemed to be completed when the students have passed at least three of the exams laid down in the study plan for the first year of the programme, with a grade out of thirty, including at least one of the exams in subjects areas MAT/03, MAT/05 and FIS/01.

Students not completing the additional learning requirements within the set time limit will be required to enrol in the subsequent academic year as repeating 1st year students.

Applicants who already have a university degree or diploma, who are enrolling in the degree programme transferring from another programme running at the University of Bologna or another university, shall in any case be required to sit the entrance exam complying the with rules indicated above, if enrolling in the first year of the programme.

For foreign students, the assessment of knowledge may also be based on the evaluation of their CV. Any negative assessment will lead to the assignment of OFA, which the students must complete in the same manner as those assigned to all other students in the first year of the programme, within the time limits set by the University.