Astronomy
Modern Research in Astronomy and astrophysics encompasses a large number of disciplines and specialties. Research areas include planetary systems and astrobiology, stellar structure and evolution, interstellar matter, binaries and compact objects, galactic structure and dynamics, galaxies and quasars, and large-scale structure and cosmology.
Most universities recommend Community College Transfer students to take courses in physics, chemistry, mathematics, and computer science rather than the usual introductory astronomy courses. As for all transfer programs, consult your transfer university for required related instruction.
Recommended Pre-Major Courses (Same as Physics)
| Course |
Description |
Credits |
| CHEM& 161 |
General Chem w/Lab I |
5 |
| CHEM& 162 |
General Chem w/Lab II |
5 |
| CHEM& 163 |
General Chem w/Lab III |
5 |
| MATH& 151 |
Calculus I |
5 |
| MATH& 152 |
Calculus II |
5 |
| MATH& 163 |
Calculus III |
5 |
| MATH 220 |
Linear Algebra |
5 |
| MATH 230 |
Differential Equations |
5 |
| MATH 271 |
Multivariable Calculus |
5 |
| PHYS& 221 |
Engineering Physics I |
4 |
| PHYS& 231 |
Engineering Physics Lab I |
1 |
| PHYS& 222 |
Engineering Physics II |
4 |
| PHYS& 232 |
Engineering Physics Lab II |
1 |
| PHYS& 223 |
Engineering Physics III |
4 |
| PHYS& 233 |
Engineering Physics Lab III |
1 |
ASTR& 100 Survey of Astronomy 5 credits
Prerequisite: MPC 095 or placement test.
Credit not granted for both ASTR& 100 and ASTR& 101.
A survey course intended for the non-science major. Topics studied will include most of the following: historical astronomy, electromagnetic radiation, telescopes, the Earth-Moon system, the solar system, the sun, stars, stellar evolution, galaxies, quasars, and cosmology. This is a non-lab science course.
ASTR& 101 Intro to Astronomy 5 credits
Prerequisite: MPC 095 or placement test.
Credit not granted for both ASTR& 100 and ASTR& 101.
A survey course intended for the non-science major. Topics studied will include most of the following: historical astronomy, electromagnetic radiation, telescopes, the Earth-Moon system, the solar system, the sun, stars, stellar evolution, galaxies, quasars, and cosmology. The laboratory portion of the course may include optics, visual astronomical observing techniques, use of the telescope, spectroscopy, and distance measurement.
ASTR 105 Observational Astronomy 3 credits
A descriptive overview of astronomy with particular emphasis on observation. Lectures will cove the solar system, the Earth-Moon system, stellar systems, celestial motion, the history of visual astronomy, optical aids, and observing techniques. This course is not intended to be part of a physical science pre-major.
Email: Jim Hamm
Faculty
Phone: (509)793-2147