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Astronomy Overview

Astronomy is the study of space and celestial objects. An astronomy degree holder is an individual in this field responsible for identifying such objects, determining their mass, composition, orbit, and any other factors that are interesting or relevant. Astronomers provide study and research in order to better understand how the universe work.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$120,650

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

69.28%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

18,510

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Astronomy Degree

Harvard University's Department of Astronomy offers unique teaching and research for students interested in exploring the entire universe with exciting observational and theoretical programs. The department takes pride in its century-old tradition of exceptional graduate students and faculty. Providing knowledge in cosmology, extrasolar planets, star formation, black holes, and high-energy astrophysics. The institution's reputation was built on its liberal arts curriculum.

Acceptance Rate

4.64

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Yale University's Department of Astronomy trains students in research techniques and quantitative reasoning and develops creative problem solvers. Astronomy is a quantitative physical science that applies physics, mathematics, and statistical analysis to observing, describing, and modeling the Universe. Many of the students continue onto top-tier graduate programs. The institution provides a comprehensive undergraduate program that allows students to pursue a major area of study through the completion of general education courses.

Acceptance Rate

6.08

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Columbia University in the City of New York's Astronomy major has a goal to construct testable, quantitative, coherent models of the universe and its contents-galaxies, stars, and planet. The department offers two majors that require a solid grounding in the mathematics and physics necessary for the pursuit of the discipline. Astronomy provides a basis for further study in the field. It is designed to be compatible with liberal arts students who pursue other careers and those wishing to combine astronomy with related sciences other than physics, such as chemistry or geology.

Acceptance Rate

5.45

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Brown University's degree in Astronomy provides students the study of the properties of stars, galaxies, and the Universe. Combining elements from the discipline of Physics and Planetary Geology.  Students pursuing the program complete introductory coursework in classical mechanics, relativity, and astrophysics, along with mathematics and electromagnetism. They go on to complete courses in stellar and extragalactic astrophysics as well as cosmology. The institution offers a variety of program options for the students to assist them in their growth and development. 

Acceptance Rate

7.07

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

The University of Chicago's Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics offers various options for undergraduates to explore the universe through an interdisciplinary study that emphasizes mastery of the intellectual processes of inquiry and discovery. Students develop a profound understanding of the processes of the scientific method that enable them to identify unanswered questions, analyze problems, and pursue research confidently. They acquire essential knowledge of the universe and gain experience with experimental and observational techniques through participation in faculty-led research projects. The institution is a nonprofit university and provides a large number of program options for students.

Acceptance Rate

6.17

Student to Faculty Ratio

5:1

Dartmouth College's Astronomy degree provides students a deeper understanding of how the universe works and they will have opportunities to make their contributions to humankind's understanding of the cosmos. Astronomy is under the umbrella of the Department of Physics and Astronomy. Students who complete the program will be critical thinkers who can apply scientific reasoning to new situations. Many of them can demonstrate an understanding of the key concepts in the core areas of astronomy and physics.

Acceptance Rate

7.93

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Amherst College's Astronomy major is designed to introduce students to the computational techniques, statistical tools, instrumentation, and physical principles that underlie modern astronomy. Computational and statistical techniques are introduced in the first course. The institution exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects that will help them in the field. A joint Five College Astronomy Department offers courses beyond those offered at Amherst.

Acceptance Rate

11.31

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Swarthmore College's Physics and Astronomy Department offers a wide variety of classes. Students have various opportunities for exploration and discovery, including frequent participation in original research with faculty members. Preparing students for the top physics and astronomy graduate programs, and also for graduate programs in education, engineering, law, international relations, and other fields. The institution strives to convey the excitement of physics and astronomy, which explore the most basic and enduring questions about the universe. Offering an undergraduate education and guide students in developing essential skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment.

Acceptance Rate

8.93

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1

Cornell University's Department of Astronomy is one of the leading centers for astronomical research in the world. Placing a strong emphasis on the participation of students in ongoing research projects and strives to foster an interdisciplinary approach to solving astronomical problems. Various undergraduate and graduate alumni of Cornell astronomy have become leaders in the field. The institution is one of the top public research universities in the United States. Providing cutting-edge research and the program is highly interdisciplinary.

Acceptance Rate

10.85

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Rice University's Physics and Astronomy Department is among the top departments in the United States. Providing an outstanding undergraduate program with several degree choices and their students are well prepared to go on to industry or graduate programs. Undergraduates have gone on to an enormous variety of careers related to the field. Offering unique opportunities and resources for students participating in research throughout the degree.

Acceptance Rate

8.72

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

Northwestern University's Astronomy degree program offers students very active research programs that span many areas of physics. Their faculty use dozens of off-campus research facilities. The institution is internationally recognized for its educational excellence and ranks among the best in the United States for its undergraduate programs. Offering a comprehensive range of academic programs that lead to certificates, diplomas, degrees at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels.

Acceptance Rate

9.05

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Williams College's major in Astronomy spans the very old and the very new. The institution's Hopkins Observatory is the oldest existing astronomical observatory in the United States. Current faculty and students in the program research with some of the world's most advanced telescopes. The Department offers courses for both majors and non-majors. Students interested in majoring may choose either to be an Astrophysics major, administered jointly with the Physics Department or an Astronomy major.  

Acceptance Rate

12.6

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Barnard College's Physics & Astronomy degrees offer a thorough pre-professional curriculum in both physics and astronomy. Their faculty represents a wide range of expertise, with special strength and distinction in theoretical gravitational and condensed matter physics, and observational astrophysics. Offering a separate major in physics and astronomy. The institution exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects needed in the field.

Acceptance Rate

11.77

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The University of Southern California's Department of Physics & Astronomy majors offer both majors and minors in five different subject areas. They also offer several different levels of introductory courses for students with majors in other departments. The university encourages collaboration, interdisciplinary studies, public service, and professional education. Highly encouraging students to create their major/minor study programs to further interdisciplinary endeavors and new ideas. They boast many renowned innovators and award-winners.

Acceptance Rate

11.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The University of California-Berkeley's Department of Astronomy offers undergraduate and graduate instruction in a wide variety of fields. The program helps students discover the world beyond their own in an internationally-ranked institution. Their faculty is comprised of world-renowned researchers who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. Leading numerous research groups of postdocs, graduate students, and undergraduates working collaboratively. The program offers comprehensive, hands-on training in the field.

Acceptance Rate

16.25

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

The University of Virginia's major in Astronomy offers students the opportunity to explore frontier discoveries while simultaneously developing fundamental analytical and quantitative skills useful in many different careers. Providing a concentration on science in the context of a liberal arts degree for students who do not intend to pursue graduate training in astronomy or physics. With a rigorous preparation for graduate work in astronomy, physics, computer science, or related fields. One of the institution's goals is to develop leaders and foster leadership through many areas of study.  

Acceptance Rate

23.94

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

The University of California-Los Angeles Astrophysics provides students the application of physics to the cosmos. Students in the program explore questions concerning the nature, workings, origin, and evolution of the universe. UCLA offers students marketable skills acquired in this degree program that include analytical thinking, problem-solving techniques, a fundamental understanding of the physical universe, a strong foundation in mathematics, and a familiarity with technical-scientific equipment and computing. The institution is considered among the best schools in the United States, offering an excellent undergraduate program along with a large number of graduate opportunities.

Acceptance Rate

12.32

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor's Astronomy degree offers majors and minors on two tracks, the Astronomy and Astrophysics tracks offering an intensive path for those planning a graduate degree in the field or a career in the high-tech industry. The Interdisciplinary Astronomy track provides a substantive understanding of the field ideal for roles like public outreach or education. The institution also offers general-interest courses for students from other majors seeking to fulfill their science requirements while learning about the field. Students have the opportunity to hone their skills in areas like observation, data analysis, and computer programming.   

Acceptance Rate

22.91

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Wesleyan University's degree in Astronomy provides outstanding opportunities for undergraduates who wish to major in the subject. Their unique program blends coursework with research opportunities and provides students access to professional-quality telescopes, instrumentation, and computers. Students go onto graduate programs, including the best in the United States, or to a variety of rewarding careers in and out of science. Offering a comprehensive range of coursework that will prepare them for a variety of directions in life. The institution is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and helps students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment.

Acceptance Rate

16.48

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1

Wellesley College's Astronomy Department provides students many opportunities to engage in astronomy-related activities beyond the formal curriculum. Students learn to operate their historic and modern telescopes and serve as nighttime assistants, research assistants, and tour guides. The program is designed to serve the beginner in the field and individuals who are deeply passionate about the field that will make astronomy a central part of their lives. The institution exposes its students to a variety of essential topics and subjects.

Acceptance Rate

21.56

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1

Haverford College's degrees in Astronomy and Astrophysics provides students physical principles to understand the properties of objects in space. The program is based on the study of different systems and their evolutions. It is shaped to provide a solid foundation in the principles of astronomy and physics. Their faculty work at the cutting-edge of modern astronomy and cosmology, creating exceptional research opportunities for majors. The institution helps students develop essential skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment.

Acceptance Rate

16.32

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1

Vassar College's Physics and Astronomy Department offers students an engaging learning environment consisting of a rigorous program of study augmented by a diverse research agenda. Their faculty is dedicated to continuing to use and exploring innovative and effective teaching strategies. Vassar faculty help students develop a strong research program aimed at providing ample opportunity for undergraduate students to have hands-on experience. Their faculty is also committed to teaching courses that promote scientific literacy for students who do not choose to major in the sciences.

Acceptance Rate

23.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1

Boston University's Department of Astronomy provides a range of courses and programs for students planning careers in astronomy, space science, or related fields. The department offers three undergraduate major programs which are astronomy, astronomy and physics, and geophysics and planetary sciences. Students in these programs develop the necessary mathematical skills and physical insight to understand the nature of the universe from the modern scientific perspective. Most students participate in research at the forefront of Astronomy and Planetary Science under the guidance of a faculty member.

Acceptance Rate

18.94

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Villanova University's major in Astronomy & Astrophysics is designed to prepare students for graduate studies in Astronomy and related fields. Combining rigorous academic preparation with a strong research component. The program provides a balanced Liberal Arts and Sciences education and outstanding preparation for careers in science journalism and science education. Research facilities used by students in the department include a suite of on-site telescopes. The institution is known for its interdisciplinary programs, leading research, and excellent faculty.

Acceptance Rate

28.24

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Lehigh University's Astronomy and Astrophysics are offered in the Department of Physics. Students who major in astronomy or astrophysics usually have very inquisitive minds and a good aptitude for physics and mathematics. Lehigh University provides enrolled students with a solid background in the laboratory and theoretical astrophysics as well as in the fundamentals of physics and mathematics. Astrophysics is designed for students who wish to go on to graduate studies in astrophysics to become professional astronomers.

Acceptance Rate

32.1

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

What is Astronomy?

Astronomy is the study of galaxies, planets, starts, and the universe. The purpose of astronomy is the expand our understanding of the universe around us, educate the general public, and share new information with students in the field. Astronomy is an observational science unlike an experimental science such as chemistry. Astronomers rely on the radiation from space via a range of electromagnetic waves from radio waves, ultraviolet waves, gamma rays, x-rays, visible light, microwave, and infrared light. Astronomers collect information through the use of space-based and earth-based telescopes in conjunction with technology and tools of modern physics.

Research Top Astronomy Degrees

Individuals may pursue a masters degree, though a doctorate is typically required for positions relating to astronomy research and phy studies. The field of astronomy is closely tied to physics and astrophysics. All disciplines requiring the use of physics to better determine the movement, composition, age, and other information regarding celestial objects. Additionally, individuals will learn about machines and tools used for identifying and examining such objects. A strong background in mathematics is required for students seeking PhD astronomy university or astronomy minor PhD. A physics astronomy minor and astronomy PhD astrophysics are offered from top ranked colleges like Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Meanwhile, an astronomy minor PhD and minor PhD physics may be coupled with an astronomy PhD astrophysics from an accredited PhD astrophysics university.

A curriculum may include:

Student Research and Degrees

Schools that maintain or are near observatory’s that allow for viewing of space and objects allow students to experience astronomy principles and practice firsthand. Practical experience is in important tool for education to become realized and assists in the student's development. Some schools may have active research projects regarding astronomy, which can be very desirable, as such experience may assist in obtaining a permanent position after completion.  The astrophysics PhD physics and physics PhD astronomy are popular paths for students in this learning domain.  In fact, the PhD physics university programs offered from top ranked schools often lead to research-based careers.

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Employment Information & Opportunities in Astronomy

Employment growth is expected to remain steady for astronomers. This is due to the expected funding over the next decade that allows for such employment through research project, often in conjunction with agencies and universities. Increased interest in space, particularly travel and phenomena will result in the creation of newer projects that may extend for several years. Given the relatively small number of individuals in this field, employment should be readily available.

Where Do Astrophysics and Physics Graduates Work?

The bulk of astronomers work at a college or university in a research or teaching capacity. Other astronomers find themselves employed in private research facilities, observatories (NOAO or NRAO), science museums, planetariums, laboratories, or government agencies (NASA). A masters degree or PhD in astronomy is generally required to find employment within the field given the degree of specialty required.

How Much Do Astronomers Make?

The median annual income for an astronomer in the United States is $114,870 which equates to $55.23 per hour. The expected job growth for astronomers is 7% in coming decade which is above the national average for all occupations during that timeframe.

States with the Highest Employment of Astronomers

  1. Texas
  2. Arizona
  3. California
  4. Hawaii
  5. Massachusetts

Top Paying States for Astronomers

  1. Maryland $124,020
  2. Massachusetts $123,760
  3. Hawaii $120,980
  4. California $117,730
  5. Colorado $112,550

The American Astronomical Society is a professional organization that works to advance the cause of astronomers, as well as to compile research and to share resources in order to advance humanities understanding of the universe.

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