What it’s about:

Astronomy majors study the universe beyond our atmosphere, beginning with the underlying physical principles. You observe and investigate the planets, stars, and galaxies, as you learn methods of inquiry such as optical astronomy, radio astronomy, and theoretical astronomy.

What the study of this major is like:

Students of astronomy examine the key components of the universe, such as the stars and planets, and the physical and mathematical laws that govern them. In cosmology, you analyse current theories about the origins and future of the universe; planetary astronomy describes the surfaces and makeup of the planets and moons in the solar system. Usually, the solar system and stars, galaxies, and cosmology are covered in two separate courses. Most likely, you’ll attend weekly laboratory sessions in which you study such topics as the constellations and the motions of the sky, the properties of gravity and of light, and the operation of telescopes.

Once you complete the survey courses, the pace quickens. If you are serious about majoring in astronomy, you should plan your program of study to ensure that you take the required upper-level courses in physics and mathematics. Typically, these courses are the equivalent of a major in physics and a minor in math.

Most astronomy departments offer at least one course in astrophysics; as the theoretical side of astronomy, it explores the formation and evolution of stars, galaxies, and the universe itself. Many students find this investigation to be challenging, because it requires fluency in the language of math and physics. To learn why a star shines, for example, you need a basic understanding of mechanics, electricity and magnetism, thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, quantum mechanics, special relativity, and nuclear physics.

Most astronomy departments offer upper-level course in observation though telescopes. You may have opportunities to carry out independent projects, typically using a digital (CCD) camera and requiring computer analysis of the observations. Even of research projects, you can often get by with relatively small telescopes. For a taste of professional astronomy, you may be able to do research, during the summer, at national observatories, or at some universities and colleges.

Departments with a strong physics orientation might emphasize astrophysics rather than observational techniques; those with strong connections to a research observatory might stress the development of instrumentation and hands-on astronomy. At some colleges, planetary astronomy is offered in coordination with the departments of geology and/or atmospheric science. Some departments offer two tracks in the astronomy program: one leads to broad, general knowledge of the field; the other, which includes intensive work in physics and mathematics, prepares you for graduate study.

Career options and trends:

Most astronomers working in the field do research at universities, observatories, or laboratories, or teach at the high school or college level. A small number work in planetariums and science museums. An advanced degree is required.

The major in astronomy provides excellent preparation for careers in fields other than the physical sciences. Astronomy majors have become engineers, neurosurgeons, trail lawyers, insurance executives, and business leaders.

Source: CollegeBoard 2012 Book of Majors