They also use detectors buried in deep mines, telescopes on high mountain peaks and in local state forests, satellites and telescopes circling the earth, and even satellites that leave the solar system. Minors and Second Majors that Expand Career Options with this Major IU astronomy majors typically take enough mathematics and physics to be math and physics majors. A solid foundation in computer science is also very important. Most positions for people with an undergraduate degree are in technical support in research. Other Career Possibilities with a Bachelor's Degree Astronomers work in planetariums, science museums, and other public institutions.
Some jobs are available in secondary school teaching and in science writing.
The astronomy field is very competitive and has low turnover. There are only about 6,000 professional astronomers in North America. In recent years, there have been approximately 150 job openings in North America, while the number of Ph.D.'s conferred annually in recent years has averaged about 125. It is common for astronomers to spend from three to six years in postdoctoral positions before finding a steady position in a university, national facility, or government lab. Many faculty augment their salaries with summer work at their universities or with summer research.