BSc Astronomy

If you want to explore the universe using real scientific tools and learn from world-leading researchers, the BSc in Astronomy at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Vancouver is an outstanding choice. UBC is one of the few universities worldwide offering a dedicated undergraduate degree in astronomy, and you’ll be part of a top-ranked physics department with a global reputation for research excellence.

Experiential learning is woven into your degree from the start, giving you hands-on skills and access to state-of-the-art facilities:

• First-year physics classes use a flipped-classroom model: Ensuring you get individualised help and interactive learning, even in large lectures.

• Access to the Large Zenith Telescope: The world’s largest liquid mercury telescope—operated by UBC in a regional forest, where students and researchers conduct real astronomical observations and instrumentation work.

• Practical laboratory courses are held in the Hebb Building and Theatre, recently renovated with modern teaching and demonstration spaces.

• Opportunities to participate in UBC’s strong Outreach Program, including events like the UBC Physics Olympics and Canadian Physics Olympiad, where you can develop science communication and teamwork skills.

• Involvement in research projects with faculty who are at the forefront of cosmology, exoplanet studies, and instrumentation development, with access to major international observatories and space missions such as the Hubble Space Telescope, CHIME, Gemini, and the Atacama Large Millimetre/Submillimeter Array.

• Use of advanced digital tools and data analysis techniques: Including programming and statistical methods for extracting information from astronomical datasets.

• Co-op program option: Allowing you to combine your studies with full-time, paid work at leading local and international organisations, gaining valuable industry experience before you graduate.

• Honours and combined honours options in Physics and Astronomy: For students seeking deeper specialisation or planning to pursue graduate research.

Graduates of the University of British Columbia, Vancouver’s BSc in Astronomy are highly employable, moving into roles such as technical support personnel in observatories, astronomy educators, outreach experts at science centres and planetariums, scientific software developers, and system engineers. Many alumni also pursue further studies in astronomy, physics, astrophysics, or enter professional schools in medicine, law, or education.

Here’s how UBC specifically supports your future:

• Career Services & Experiential Learning: UBC’s Astronomy program offers a co-op option, enabling you to combine your studies with full-time, paid work at leading local and international organisations. The department’s strong Outreach Program runs events like the UBC Physics Olympics and the Canadian Physics Olympiad, providing opportunities to develop communication and leadership skills. First-year physics classes use a flipped-classroom model for individualised support, and students gain practical experience through laboratory courses and research projects.

• Industry Partnerships & Research: UBC is recognised globally for its research in astronomy and astrophysics. Faculty are involved in major international projects, including the James Webb Space Telescope, Thirty Metre Telescope, Square Kilometre Array, and CMB-Stage 4. The university operates the Large Zenith Telescope—the world’s largest liquid mercury telescope—offering unique research and observational opportunities. Students work with advanced instrumentation and data analysis techniques relevant to both academia and industry.

• Employment Stats & Graduate Outcomes: Program graduates have secured positions as system engineers (e.g., UrtheCast), astrophysicists and scientific software developers (e.g., UBC Atlas Group), and have gone on to MSc studies at UBC and beyond. The program develops skills in computational coding, complex modelling, statistical analysis, technical writing, and the use of advanced laboratory equipment—skills valued in research, technology, education, and outreach roles.

• Accreditation: The BSc in Astronomy at UBC is fully recognised in Canada and internationally, and fulfils prerequisites for graduate and professional programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

• Graduate Outcomes: Students graduate with advanced analytical, quantitative, and scientific communication skills, as well as practical experience in observation, data analysis, and technical problem-solving. The curriculum covers the birth, evolution, and death of stars and black holes, galaxy properties, cosmology, and the development of astronomical instrumentation.

Further Academic Progression: After your BSc in Astronomy at UBC, you can pursue a master’s in astronomy, astrophysics, physics, or related fields, or enter professional programs in education, engineering, or data science. The program’s strong research environment, faculty mentorship, and global reputation support a wide range of academic and professional pathways.