Abstract <p>This paper discusses the teaching experience at the Astronomy Division of St.  Petersburg University, which is organizationally part of the Faculty of Mathematics and Mechanics. This affiliation has shaped the distinctive features of the curriculum, the interests of faculty and students, and the profile of graduates. In particular, a relative deficit in physics training has traditionally been compensated by deeper preparation in mathematics and information technologies. This has resulted in a unique educational program. The paper will focus on the methods used to address the identified shortcomings and the solutions that have been implemented.</p>