The top universities for studying astronomy in the U.S.A. are also among the most selective and expensive universities in the nation. They are also well known for their scientific research programs. Those interested in astronomy studies should expect to take courses in physics, mathematics, and computer science in addition to astronomy. Humanities, social sciences, and writing classes are also important to develop communication abilities. To become an astronomer after graduation, you will need a terminal degree in the field (a PhD) and research experience. Harvard, University of California at Berkeley, Stanford, University of Chicago, and Cornell are also among this top-ranked group detailed below; MIT, Caltech, and Princeton were chosen as examples.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) offers undergraduates the opportunity to major in physics with a focus in astronomy that involves classes on the solar system, modern astrophysics, and the early universe. A minor in astronomy is also offered, with seven of its own class requirements separate from the physics major. For the minor, required classes include Physics III, introduction to astronomy, differential equations, astrophysics, planetary astronomy, observations, and an independent project.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Department of Physics
77 Massachusetts Ave.
Cambridge, MA 02139-4307
617-253-4841
web.mit.edu/physics/
California Institute of Technology
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) offers an astrophysics option for its undergraduates (option is the term for major at Caltech). Caltech is well known for its Keck Observatory in Hawaii and Palomar Observatory in San Diego County. Caltech describes astrophysics as the modern form of astronomy studies. A typical astrophysics option student would take several classes in physics and mathematics, as well as basic astronomy and the galaxy, galaxies and cosmology, trends in astronomy, quantum mechanics, physics of stars and of the interstellar medium, astronomy instrumentation lab, electives in astronomy/physics, other electives, and written communication.
Caltech Astronomy Department
MC 249-17
1200 East California Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91125
626-395-4671
astro.caltech.edu/department/
Princeton University
Astronomy majors at Princeton University are under the Department of Astrophysics; usually there are about 10 to 15 declared majors at one time. The program is well known for excellence in teaching and scholarship. Astronomy majors complete three independent research projects in collaboration with a faculty adviser. Sample topics include planetary science, black holes and dark matter. These students have access to advanced research facilities for astronomy and astrophysics. Seven prerequisite courses prepare students for their eight required upper-level classes in physics, astronomy and related disciplines.
Princeton University Department of Astrophysical Sciences
Peyton Hall
4 Ivy Lane
Princeton, NJ 08544-1001
609-258-3801
princeton.edu/astro/about/
Tags: Institute Technology, Massachusetts Institute, Massachusetts Institute Technology, Princeton University, well known, also among
