HUNTERTUTORING

Astrophysics

Graduate · Physics

Syllabus focus

Standard syllabus · STEM / applied

Pricing

Graduate-level rates are set on consultation. See the pricing page for K–12 and undergraduate rates.

Topics typically covered

Standard syllabus

Radiative processes

  • Radiative transfer equation and opacity
  • Bremsstrahlung, synchrotron, and Compton
  • Line formation and NLTE (intro)
  • Accretion disks and Eddington limits
  • Radiation hydrodynamics basics

Stellar and compact objects

  • Stellar structure equations
  • Nucleosynthesis and stellar evolution tracks
  • Supernovae and nucleosynthesis yields
  • Neutron star structure and EOS
  • Black hole thermodynamics

Cosmology

  • Friedmann models and distance measures
  • CMB anisotropies and power spectra
  • Large-scale structure formation
  • Dark energy models
  • Gravitational lensing in cosmology

STEM / applied

Observation and data

  • Survey pipelines: SDSS, DES, LSST
  • Radio interferometry: CLEAN algorithm
  • Time-domain astronomy and alerts
  • Bayesian inference for cosmological parameters
  • High-energy astrophysics mission data

Numerical astrophysics

  • N-body and hydrodynamic cosmological sims
  • Stellar evolution codes: MESA overview
  • Radiative MHD simulations
  • Synthetic observations from simulations
  • HPC resources for astrophysics groups

Professional skills

  • Writing telescope proposals (ALMA, JWST)
  • Coauthor norms in large collaborations
  • Public outreach for astrophysics results
  • Teaching observational techniques
  • Careers at observatories and space agencies

Notes

Topics reflect common graduate physics core and elective syllabi at US universities. Sequencing and emphasis vary between one- and two-semester treatments.