Graduate Program in Astrophysics in Split

Beginning in autumn 2008 the first generation of astronomy master students will start a 2 year course in Astrophysics offered by the Physics department of the University of Split, Croatia (http://fizika.pmfst.hr/astro/english/index.html). This unique master course in South-Eastern Europe, following the Bologna convention and given by astronomers from international institutions, offers a series of comprehensive lectures designed to greatly enhance students’ knowledge and skills in astrophysics, and prepare them for a scientific career. An equally important aim of the course is to recognise the areas in which astronomy and astrophysics can serve as a national asset and to use them to prepare young people for real life challenges, enabling graduates to enter the modern society as a skilled and attractive work-force. In this contribution, I present an example of a successful organisation of international astrophysics studies in a developing country, which aims to become a leading graduate program in astrophysics in the broader region. I will focus on the benefits of the project showing why and in what way astronomy can be interesting for third world countries, what are the benefits for the individual students, nation and region, but also research, science and the astronomical community in general.