BA in Astronomy at BU
Astronomy encompasses all of the physical phenomena in the universe, from the atmospheres of planets, to the discovery and characterization of planets orbiting other stars, the nature of galaxies and the stars in them, the supermassive black holes that reside at the centers of all large galaxies, and how the universe got to be the way it is. Astronomy majors gain exposure to the principles of astronomy, physics, and mathematics. They learn to communicate astronomical information effectively to a range of audiences using a variety of media. They learn to think critically and evaluate, interpret, and solve problems related to astronomy, physics, and general scientific topics. Students develop the technical skills and problem-solving experience that gives them the tools to work in the modern, high-tech world. The BA in Astronomy prepares students for entry into the competitive science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) workplace.
Students majoring in Astronomy begin with surveys of the solar system and of stars, galaxies, and the universe. As they advance their mathematical and physical understandings, their studies of planets and of stellar and galactic astrophysics take on more depth. In their last two years as undergraduates, Astronomy majors select from a range of advanced astronomy and physics classes, and can engage in directed research with a faculty advisor or pursue honors work via an honors thesis. They also often complement their studies with additional elective courses in computer science, math, physics, and/or earth science.
Degree Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate a broad knowledge of the principles of astronomy.
- Communicate astronomical information effectively, using a variety of media, and to a range of audiences.
- Think critically and evaluate, interpret, and solve problems related to astronomical topics as well as other technical and general scientific topics.
Course Requirements
The major in Astronomy requires a total of
15 courses, each completed with a grade of
C or higher. Those 15 courses include four (4) foundational courses, and eleven (11) principal courses, composed of: seven specific astronomy, math, and physics courses, and four chosen from a selection of advanced astronomy and physics courses.
Required (Foundation Courses) (4)
Required (Principal Courses) (11)
*Note:
Students who enter the program with a strong background in calculus may substitute CAS MA 127 or MA 129 for the combination of MA 123 and MA 124, in consultation with their academic advisor.
Recommended Courses
Students who plan to enter graduate school to study astronomy should take several of the recommended courses, in consultation with an Astronomy academic advisor.
Recommended courses include any from the above required list, if not taken as a required course, in addition to any of the following:
Advising
Effective academic advising is an important part of every academic program. Any student considering one of the astronomy majors is urged to discuss their goals and how these might be met, with the Astronomy
Director of Undergraduate Studies.
Declaring an Astronomy Major
To declare or add the BA in Astronomy major, please review our Advising FAQ: Declaring an Astronomy Major.
BU Hub Categories
Starting Fall 2018, all first-year, first-time students will pursue coursework related to the
BU Hub, a general education program that is integrated into the entire undergraduate experience.
Students majoring in Astronomy will ordinarily, through coursework in the major, satisfy BU Hub requirements in:
- Scientific Inquiry
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Communication
- Intellectual Toolkit
Honors in the Major
Honors in Astronomy is an opportunity for senior undergraduates in the Department of Astronomy to conduct in-depth research in the field and to become more fully involved in the intellectual life of the department. Students work with a faculty project advisor on an honors research project over the course of two semesters (while enrolled in the Astronomy Honors courses
AS 401 and AS 402).
Students each write a thesis, give a public presentation based on the thesis, and take an oral examination about the thesis with a small committee of Astronomy faculty members. In addition, students participate in one of four seminar and journal club series offerings.
Students interested in the Honors in Astronomy program should consult with their faculty academic advisor or the Director of Undergraduate Studies.
