Requirements for the Astronomy Major
The Bachelor of Arts degree in Astronomy, not intended as preparation for graduate study in science, provides a firm grounding in basic astronomy, mathematics, physics, and computer science. Students take ASTR 1210, 1220 (or 2110, 2120), 3130, 4998 (Senior Thesis), and twelve additional credits of 3000-5000 level astronomy courses (ASTR 1270 may be substituted for ASTR 1220). Students are also required to take MATH 1210, 1220 (or 1310, 1320); PHYS 1425, 2415 (or 1710, 1720, 2620); and PHYS 2660 or CS 1110. This program offers considerable opportunities for students to pursue interests in other subjects, and is well suited for inclusion in a double major.
Requirements for the Astronomy-Physics Major
The Bachelor of Science degree in Astronomy-Physics is offered jointly by the astronomy and physics departments. This program prepares students for graduate study in astronomy, physics, computer science, and related fields. Students take MATH 1320, 2310, 3255, 4210, 4220; PHYS 1710, 1720, 2620, 2630, 2640, 2660, 3210, 3310, 3420, 3430, 3650; ASTR 2110, 2120, 3130, 4993, 4998 (Senior Thesis), and six additional credits of 3000-5000 level astronomy courses.
Prospective astronomy-physics majors are strongly urged to consult with the astronomy undergraduate advisor during registration week of their first semester at the University.
Distinguished Majors Program in Astronomy-Physics
Students must maintain a GPA of 3.400 or better. For the Distinguished Major Program (DMP), students must meet the requirements of the astronomy-physics major described above and must also take PHYS 3660 and a two-semester Senior Thesis (ASTR 4998). The six credits of elective astronomy courses must consist of ASTR 4810 and one additonal 4000 - 5000-level astronomy lecture course. This program leads to the award of degrees with distinction, high distinction, or highest distinction.
Requirements for the Minor in Astronomy
The Minor Program in Astronomy is intended mainly for students with a strong interest in the subject who do not have the time to commit to the mathematics and physics courses required for the major. The minor consists of 15 credits of Astronomy courses: ASTR 1210 and 12 additional credits of astronomy, at least 6 of which must be at the 3000-level or above. ASTR 2110 may be substituted for ASTR 1210.
Course Descriptions
Note: All astronomy courses may be used to satisfy the College natural sciences area requirements. Both ASTR 1210 and 1220 cover complementary subject matter at an introductory level. Each is complete in itself, and students may take only one, or both concurrently. |
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