Degree: Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Major: Astronomy

Program Overview

The BA in Astronomy provides a theoretical foundation and practical experience in the field of astronomy. The program offers flexible coursework in astronomy, math, and physics that helps to facilitate double or secondary majors. Students develop skills in data analysis, computational methods, and science communication. This program prepares students for study in astronomy at the graduate level. The program is also good preparation for careers in data science, science education, public outreach, and related fields.

Undergraduate Policies

For undergraduate policies and procedures, please review the Office of Undergraduate Studies section of the General Bulletin.

Accelerated Master's Programs

Undergraduate students may participate in accelerated programs toward graduate or professional degrees. For more information and details of the policies and procedures related to accelerated studies, please visit the Office of Undergraduate Studies section of the General Bulletin.

Program Requirements

Students seeking to complete this major and degree program must meet the general requirements for bachelor's degrees and the general requirements of the College of Arts and Sciences. Students completing this program as a secondary major while completing another undergraduate degree program do not need to satisfy the latter set of requirements.

The Bachelor of Arts in astronomy requires 120 credit hours, including 20 hours in astronomy, 26 hours in physics, 14 hours in math, 3 hours in computer programming, and 6 hours in technical electives. 

Six hours of mathematics and natural science (physics) are double-counted towards the SAGES breadth requirements, and one required math course is double-counted towards the SAGES Quantitative Reasoning requirement.

Sample Plan of Study

a

300-level astronomy courses: three of the following five are required: ASTR 306, ASTR 311, ASTR 323, ASTR 328, ASTR 333.

b

A SAGES Capstone Experience is required of all students. The BA in astronomy does not require the astronomy capstone but only that a capstone be taken. The number of hours shown assumes the astronomy capstone with 1 hour in the senior fall semester and 3 hours in the senior spring semester. If another capstone is taken, the number of hours may be different.

*

Suggested, but not required for the major.