The major in astronomy examines the physical nature and origin of the universe and the galaxies, stars, and planets within it.
Astronomy brings to bear the knowledge of the physicist, mathematician, and chemist.
Astronomy has evolved through recent centuries from an observation science, relying on data gathered from from peering through a telescope, to a field involving computer modeling, experiments, and direct exploration of the solar system. The University of Texas offers astronomy as an individual major. This underscores the close alliance of astronomy with physics and emphasizes the sophisticated grounding in physics required of astronomers. For more information, consult your Undergraduate Course Catalog or contact the Mathematics, Physics, and Astronomy Advising Center at 471-0900. Most astronomers work for colleges, universities, or academically affiliated observatories, where they spend most of their time in teaching and research.