Astronomy Specialization

The fields of astrophysics and astronomy have seen great advances over the centuries, especially in the last few decades. The introductory physics courses included in the physics core and the courses included in the mathematics minor prepare students to study the theories of our universe. Students secure their strong exposure to physics by choosing from several upper-level physics electives, then select from a range of contemporary electives such as introductory astronomy and astrophysics, stellar and galactic structure, and high-energy astrophysics.

Graduates who complete this curriculum find work in all aspects of astrophysics from low-level atmospheric magneto-physics, to solar physics and the Sun-Earth magnetic field system and, finally, to the mysteries of dark matter and cosmology. With laboratory experience and exposure to electronics, students may also find work supporting astronomical guidance and control systems, both on terrestrial and space-borne platforms.

Besides the physics core courses, the following courses must be included for the astrophysics/astronomy certificate of specialization awarded by the College of Science: AST 106, 107, 371, and 471. In addition, 12 hours of upper-level physics or astrophysics courses are needed to meet major requirements. Suggested selections include: PH 306, 310, 311, 337, 431/432, 451/452, 474 and AST 572 and 573.

Students intending to continue on to a graduate school with an Astrosphysics Specialty might consider a 5-year advanced program of study. This program incorporates all requirements for the Theoretical Physics Specialty, all requirements for the astrophysical specialty, and allows the student to take up to 9 hours of upper-level PH/AST courses at the graduate level for transfer to a graduate program. Certificates for both Theoretical and Astrophysics Specialties would also be awarded.

 

Model Four-Year Plan

Here is a sample four-year program of study for this specialization:

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