The Astronomy major offers a concentration on science in the context of a liberal arts degree for students who do not intend to pursue graduate training in physical science. The Astronomy-Physics major provides more rigorous preparation for graduate work in astronomy, physics, computer science, or related fields. Its fourteen faculty members of the department are committed to strong undergraduate teaching as well as to conducting astronomical research. As one of the top fifteen research departments in the country there is considerable faculty expertise spanning a wide range of subjects from the evolution of stars, to simulations of massive black holes with supercomputers, to observations with the Hubble Space Telescope and other satellites, to studies of the evolution of the universe. Faculty research is well supported by the National Science Foundation and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
Students therefore get to know each other well and often work together.
Close contact with the faculty is an integral part of the learning environment. Students can also work at the University's Observatory or in summer research projects supported by grants. Advanced students can enroll in graduate courses. Most students who complete our Astronomy-Physics degree go on to graduate programs in astronomy or physics, frequently at the best schools in the country. Students who complete the Astronomy degree are well prepared for a wide range of careers.