ASTROPHYSICS

Astronomy and astrophysics deal with some of the most fascinating questions in science: How did the universe begin, how will it end, do black holes really exist, what is the fate of the sun? In addition, astronomy continues to yield a rich assortment of intriguing scientific discoveries – including gravitational lenses, gamma-ray bursters, quasars, and extra-solar planets – and, with new information constantly coming in from instruments like the Hubble Space Telescope and the Galileo probe orbiting Jupiter, more exciting discoveries are made every day.

Students wishing to pursue a career in astronomy or astrophysics need a solid physics background – in fact, most professional astronomers start their education with a physics bachelor's degree, then go on to obtain a Ph. D. in astronomy. A degree in physics with the Astrophysics Option gives the student an excellent foundation on which to pursue further studies in astronomy and astrophysics. Furthermore, the student earns not only a bachelor's degree in physics, but also a minor in astronomy, precisely the background favored by graduate astronomy programs across the country.

OPTION C: ASTROPHYSICS

(This program yields a Bachelor of Science in Physics Degree with minors in Mathematics and Astronomy)

1: GER = General Education requirements (see the University Bulletin).

2: MATH(3) or (6) = Six hours of MATH beyond 315 are required. Approved choices include MATH 340, 360, 375, 401, 402, 415, 420, 440, 441, 443, 448. Italicized entries are recommended

3: 499 = One hour of 499 in an appropriate department or Physics is required. Additional hours of Physics 499 may be taken for credit.