Astronomy & Physics (A&P) majors gain broad knowledge of the principles of astronomy and physics, including planets in the solar system, stars and star formation, the nature of the interstellar medium, galaxies and cosmology, classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism, statistical mechanics, quantum mechanics, and mathematical methods of physics. A&P students 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.
The A&P major is a joint program of the departments of Astronomy and Physics, and is a pathway to research-oriented careers. It prepares students for either immediate workforce entry or graduate-level study in astronomy or related sciences. Students who wish to pursue advanced degrees in astronomy or astrophysics are advised to choose this major.
Degree Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate a broad knowledge of the principles of astronomy.
- Demonstrate a broad knowledge of the principles of physics.
- Communicate astronomical information effectively, using a variety of media and methods, 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 Astronomy & Physics major requires a total of
19 courses, each completed with a grade of
C or higher. These 19 courses include four (4) prerequisite courses, and fifteen (15) principal courses, composed of: 13 specific astronomy, math, and physics courses, and two chosen from a selection of advanced astronomy and physics courses.
Prerequisites (4)
Required (Principal) Courses (15)
*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
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 & Physics major, please review our Advising FAQ.
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 & Physics 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.
