Bachelor of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics

The Bachelor of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics at Florida Institute of Technology offers a rigorous, research-driven education that combines foundational coursework in physics, mathematics, and engineering with extensive hands-on experience using advanced astronomical facilities. Students benefit from small classes, close faculty interaction, and a curriculum designed to prepare them for graduate study or careers in space science, research, and industry.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of specific facilities and experiential learning:

• F.W. Olin Observatory: Home to the Ortega telescope, this on-campus observatory allows students to participate in research projects involving hands-on observations and data collection.

• Access to Space-Based Observatories: Students can work with real data from major space observatories, including the Hubble Space Telescope, Chandra X-Ray Observatory, and Kepler Observatory, integrating professional-level research into their undergraduate experience.

• NASA-Qualified Clean Room: The department maintains a clean room certified for NASA-level research and instrument development, supporting student and faculty projects in experimental astrophysics.

• Geomagnetic Field Observatory Network: Faculty cooperates with a chain of ten geomagnetic field observatories from Central Florida to Maine, providing unique opportunities for geophysical and space weather research.

• World’s Largest X-ray Array for Lightning Research: Department faculty operate this array, offering students the chance to participate in atmospheric and planetary science research.

• Internship Opportunities: Florida Tech’s location on the Space Coast enables students to pursue internships with NASA, Lockheed-Martin, Northrop Grumman, Harris, and other leading space and technology organisations, often contributing to real missions and instrument development.

• Undergraduate Research: Students are encouraged to undertake independent or collaborative research with faculty, including projects supported by the NSF-funded SARA REU program, and often present their work at conferences or co-author publications.

Graduates of Florida Institute of Technology’s Bachelor of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics are ready for exciting careers as astronomers, astrophysicists, data analysts, and science educators. You’ll find Florida Tech alumni working in research institutions, space agencies, tech companies, and educational organisations, often advancing quickly into research or technical leadership roles.

Here’s how Florida Tech gives you a competitive edge:

• Career Services and Support: Florida Tech’s Career Services office provides personalised career advising, resume and interview workshops, and connects you with employers in the space sciences and technology sectors. You’ll also benefit from faculty mentorship and small class sizes, ensuring close interaction and guidance throughout your studies.

• Employment Outcomes: The program’s rigorous curriculum in physics, mathematics, and engineering sciences prepares you for immediate employment or graduate study. Graduates are highly sought after for roles in research, software development, education, and data analysis, with many securing internships and jobs at organisations like NASA, Lockheed-Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Harris.

• University–Industry Partnerships: Florida Tech’s prime location on the Space Coast offers unparalleled access to internships and collaborative research with NASA and major aerospace companies. Students have participated in projects at Kitt Peak National Observatory and Brookhaven National Laboratory, and worked on missions such as Deep Impact.

• Accreditation and Value: Florida Tech is a regionally accredited, nationally ranked private university, ensuring your degree is respected by employers and graduate schools worldwide. The university consistently ranks among the top institutions for space sciences and engineering.

• Graduation Outcomes: You’ll graduate with hands-on research experience, technical expertise, and a strong scientific foundation, making you job-ready and well-prepared for advanced study. Many students continue to master’s and doctoral programs at Florida Tech and other prestigious universities, including Johns Hopkins, Dartmouth, and Yale.

Further Academic Progression: After earning your B.S. in Astronomy and Astrophysics at Florida Tech, you’ll be fully prepared to pursue a master’s in astronomy, astrophysics, or space sciences, opening doors to advanced research, university teaching, or technical leadership roles at observatories, research institutions, and space agencies.