Students not held to General Education Requirements should consult the major adviser for information about certifying proficiency in expository English. The major requires a minimum of 34 credits in the field of specialization, with at least 6 of these credits in astronomy and at least 28 credits in physics. Math courses beyond these should be chosen in consultation with an adviser.
Computer skills are essential for research in astronomy.
Word processing, spreadsheets, and other basic applications are taught in Computer Sciences 132. Computer Sciences 302 instructs students in programming techniques and languages. Short courses offered by DoIT are an alternative path to programming skills. For advanced students, Computer Sciences 412 introduces valuable numerical methods. A college course in physical or organic chemistry is useful for astronomy students.