Majoring in 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.

If you would like to learn more about studying astronomy and careers in astronomy, you should check out the American Astronomical Society website here:

Careers in Astronomy

Most universities recommend community college transfer students take courses in physics, chemistry, mathematics, and computer science rather than the usual introductory astronomy courses. The courses listed below are appropriate for a bachelor’s degree in astronomy, but as for all transfer programs, consult your transfer university for required related instruction.

Recommended Pre-Major Courses for Astronomy