Astronomy
Bachelor of Science, Department of Physics and Astronomy
Department Overview
The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers a wide variety of courses and programs that examine and employ the laws of nature from both theoretical and applied perspectives. The courses are of value and importance to all liberally educated persons.
The department emphasizes hands-on experience and laboratory work in its programs.
Degree Overview
The major course work provides an overview of the entire field of astronomy, more detailed work in specific areas of astronomical importance, and the solid background in physics and mathematics that is needed to pursue graduate study.
Students may participate in ongoing research projects in both observational astronomy or theoretical astrophysics using facilities at the college. Currently, work is being done in stellar astronomy and includes work on pulsating stars, star clusters, and nearby galaxies.
Career Opportunities
- Overall employment of physicists and astronomers is projected to grow 14 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations.*
- The median annual wage for astronomers was $104,740 in May 2016.*
* Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Physicists and Astronomers, on the Internet here.
