Bachelors in Physics and Astronomy

If you want to explore the universe while developing strong analytical and practical skills, Northwestern University’s BA in Physics and Astronomy is an outstanding choice. This four-year, on-campus program blends rigorous coursework with experiential learning, preparing you for graduate study, research, or a wide range of careers in science and technology.

Here’s how experiential learning comes to life at Northwestern:

• Faculty-led research: Undergraduate students are encouraged to participate in research projects with faculty in areas such as astrophysics, particle physics, cosmology, and gravitational waves. Many students contribute to published research and present at national conferences.

• Dearborn Observatory: You’ll get hands-on experience with Northwestern’s historic refracting telescope, participating in observational astronomy labs, public observing nights, and outreach events.

• Student organisations: Join groups like the Society of Physics Students or participate in outreach programs, building science communication and teamwork skills.

• Flexible concentrations: Choose from advanced physics, astronomy, or interdisciplinary concentrations, tailoring your studies to your interests and career goals.

• Independent research: Pursue independent study (PHYSICS 398-0 or 399-0) under faculty supervision, culminating in a senior thesis or research project.

• Dearborn Observatory: Home to a historic 18.5-inch refracting telescope, used for undergraduate instruction, research, and public programs.

• Technological Institute: Features modern teaching and research laboratories, computational resources, and collaborative spaces for student projects.

• High-performance computing: Access to advanced computational facilities for data analysis, simulations, and research in both physics and astronomy.

• Global research connections: Work with data from major observatories and research centres worldwide, including collaborations with LIGO, CERN, NASA, and more.

Graduates of Northwestern University’s BA in Physics and Astronomy are ready to excel in a wide range of fields—whether you want to become a research scientist, data analyst, engineer, or science educator. Many alumni go on to top graduate programs in physics, astronomy, engineering, medicine, law, or business, while others launch successful careers in technology, consulting, government, and even entrepreneurship.

Here’s how Northwestern helps you launch your future:

• Personalised Career Support: Northwestern Career Advancement offers one-on-one advising, daily drop-in hours, and tailored resources to help you explore careers, find internships, and connect with employers in research, engineering, education, IT, and more.

• Strong Employment Outcomes: About 60% of physics and astronomy majors pursue advanced degrees, while others step directly into rewarding roles across research, engineering, business, computing, and public policy. Alumni have landed positions at organisations like SpaceX, Argonne National Laboratory, Epic Systems, and the Adler Planetarium.

• Prestigious Industry & Research Partnerships: Northwestern’s collaboration with Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab) gives you access to cutting-edge research, mentorship, and state-of-the-art facilities, opening doors in particle physics, materials science, energy, and medical technology.

• Accreditation & Lasting Value: The program is fully recognised in the US and internationally, and Northwestern’s reputation (#6 in the US, #50 worldwide) ensures your degree is respected by employers and graduate schools everywhere.

• Versatile, In-Demand Skills: You’ll graduate with advanced abilities in analytical thinking, mathematics, computer science, problem-solving, and scientific communication—skills that are highly valued in research, industry, education, and beyond.

Further Academic Progression: After finishing your BA in Physics and Astronomy at Northwestern, you’ll be well-prepared to pursue a master’s in physics, astronomy, engineering, medicine, law, or business at Northwestern or other leading universities. The program’s rigorous training, research opportunities, and faculty mentorship set you up for success in graduate school and a wide range of professional careers.