What it’s about:

Astrophysics, which focuses on the theoretical side of astronomy, presents the basic physical laws of the formation, evolution, and behaviour of stars, galaxies, and the universe itself.

What the study of this major is like:

Astrophysics is a rigorous major, with plenty of physics and mathematics (much like the physics major itself), especially in your first two years. You typically take courses in upper-level astronomy, astrophysics, physics, and math; you also do independent research projects in observational or theoretical astrophysics. Your course work generally includes topics such as stars and stellar evolution, galaxies and extragalactic astronomy, cosmology, relativity, and the physics of space plasma.

You should be prepared to spend time in an observational astronomy lab and perhaps to research and write a senior thesis. Most programs place a great deal of emphasis on both independent and collaborative research. Independent projects can cover any research topic in the field, from planets to the Big Bang. You use computers for all projects, including data analysis, investigation through telescopes, and theoretical modelling of the universe. If you are interested in the solar system, you should probably take additional geology courses.

Some colleges do not distinguish between astrophysics and astronomy; others design the astrophysics major primarily as a stepping-stone to graduate study in the field and offer astronomy as a less rigorous science major for liberal arts students. If you see yourself working with equations more than with telescopes to unlock the secrets of the universe, then a strong astrophysics program might be for you.

Career options and trends:

Professor*; researcher*; science teacher; software developer.

Most jobs are in basic research and development, and in college-level teaching; a doctoral degree is the usual educational requirement for these positions. A bachelor’s or master’s degree is sufficient for some jobs in applied research and development and in teaching at the high school level. A degree in astrophysics also prepares you for a wide variety of technical careers in industry, especially the computer science, space, and aeronautical fields.

Source: CollegeBoard 2012 Book of Majors