The Five College Department of Astronomy is administered jointly with Amherst, Hamp shire, Mount Holyoke, and Smith colleges. The elementary courses for nonmajors are taught separately at each campus, but all advanced courses are given on a joint basis for stu dents from the five participating institutions. Astronomers study these objects not only by observing them with telescopes and other instruments, but also with mathematical and computer models.
Astronomers therefore make heavy use of physics, mathematics, and computer science.
Equipment used ranges from radio telescopes half a mile across and high speed computers to optical telescopes so big a truck could park on the mirror. The Bachelor of Arts degree is intended for students who want to explore the science of astronomy in depth, but who do not intend to pursue a professional career in the field. The coursework provides a thorough grounding in the physical sciences and develops the logic of applying physics, mathematics, and other sciences to the solution of astronomical questions. It would also be appropriate as a nucleus of study for a career in secondary science education, or possibly planetarium or museum work. Astronomy also provides a good introduction to atmospheric physics and meteorology.