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The Bachelor of Science in Astronomy and Planetary Sciences at Stony Brook University is your gateway to understanding the universe beyond Earth, from stars and galaxies to planetary systems and cosmology. This program is perfect for students who are fascinated by the cosmos and want to prepare for graduate study, research, or careers in academia, education, or industry.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1: You’ll start with foundational courses like AST 203 Astronomy, which introduces you to the principles of astronomy and planetary science, and begin your core physics and mathematics sequence. Early coursework ensures you build a strong grounding in scientific reasoning and quantitative analysis.
Year 2: Dive deeper with courses such as PHY 251 Modern Physics and continue your math progression with calculus and differential equations. You’ll also select from core astronomy modules to start exploring topics like AST 341 Stars and Radiation.
Year 3: This year, you’ll expand your expertise with advanced modules like AST 346 Galaxies and AST 347 Cosmology, and gain research and writing experience by completing independent research papers and participating in the department’s writing requirement (AST 459). You’ll also take upper-division physics and related quantitative science courses, further strengthening your analytical skills.
Year 4: In your final year, you can choose special topics such as AST 390 Special Topics in Astrophysics and pursue honours research through AST 447 or AST 487 if eligible. You’ll round out your education with elective courses in related sciences and prepare a thesis if you’re in the honours program.
Focus areas: Stellar astrophysics, galactic and extragalactic astronomy, cosmology, planetary science, nuclear astrophysics, observational and computational methods.
Learning outcomes: Develop deep scientific understanding of the universe, master quantitative and analytical skills, conduct independent research, and communicate scientific findings in professional formats.
Professional alignment (accreditation): Prepares students for graduate and professional work in astronomy, planetary science, and related fields; aligns with standards for research, education, and industry employment.
Reputation (employability rankings): Nearly 95% of Stony Brook graduates are employed or go to graduate/professional school; the program is recognised for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong career outcomes.
Stony Brook University’s BS in Astronomy and Planetary Sciences offers a comprehensive education with direct access to advanced facilities and hands-on research experiences. You’ll study in the Earth and Space Sciences building, home to the Mount Stony Brook Observatory, and benefit from faculty collaborations with major national observatories and research networks.
Here’s what you can expect in terms of specific facilities and experiential learning:
Mount Stony Brook Observatory: Located on the roof of the Earth and Space Sciences Building, this observatory features a Meade 14" Maksutov–Cassegrain telescope equipped with SBIG-STL1001e imaging equipment. The observatory is used for undergraduate and graduate labs, research projects, and Astronomy Club activities, including monitoring variable stars and public observing events.
Astronomy Open Nights: The department hosts monthly public lectures and telescope viewings at the Mount Stony Brook Observatory, providing practical observing experience and science outreach opportunities.
National Observatory Collaborations: Faculty and students regularly use facilities at the National Optical Astronomy Observatories (such as Cerro Tololo Interamerican Observatory), the National Radio Astronomy Observatories, and the NASA Infrared Telescope Facility (IRTF) on Mauna Kea. These collaborations allow students to work with data and research from some of the world’s leading astronomical sites.
Research and Writing Requirements: All majors participate in faculty-mentored research and complete upper-division writing projects modelled after professional journal articles, ensuring strong scientific communication skills.
Honours Program: High-achieving students can pursue departmental honours by completing an honours thesis under faculty supervision, with access to advanced research resources.
Interdisciplinary Opportunities: The program encourages coursework and research in related fields such as mathematics, optics, and electrical engineering, broadening your technical foundation
Graduates of Stony Brook University’s BS in Astronomy and Planetary Sciences are prepared for exciting careers as research scientists, data analysts, science educators, and technical specialists. You’ll find Stony Brook alumni working in academic, government, and industrial laboratories, teaching in secondary schools, and conducting research at colleges and universities. Here’s how Stony Brook sets you up for success:
Faculty Advising and Support: When you declare the Astronomy major, you’ll be assigned a faculty advisor who will guide you in course selection and career planning. The department encourages frequent consultation to ensure you’re on track for your goals and to help you choose complementary minors such as Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or Optics.
Employment Outcomes: Nearly 95% of Stony Brook graduates are employed or go on to professional or graduate school after earning their degree, reflecting strong career preparation and alumni success.
University–Industry Partnerships: You’ll have the opportunity to participate in research projects alongside faculty, use the Mount Stony Brook Observatory for hands-on learning, and attend Astronomy Open Nights with lectures and telescope viewings—building both your skills and your professional network.
Accreditation and Value: Stony Brook University is part of the renowned SUNY system, fully accredited, and nationally recognised for its science programs, ensuring your degree is respected by employers and graduate schools.
Graduation Outcomes: The program requires 63–66 credits, including advanced courses in astronomy and physics, mathematics, and upper-division writing. Honours students can complete a thesis for departmental distinction, and all students develop strong quantitative, research, and communication skills for diverse scientific and technical careers.
Further Academic Progression: After earning your BS in Astronomy and Planetary Sciences at Stony Brook, you’ll be well-prepared to pursue master’s programs in astronomy, planetary science, astrophysics, or related fields—opening doors to advanced research, university teaching, or technical leadership roles at observatories, research institutions, and space agencies.
Official transcripts from Grade 9 to Grade 11th. For 12th Grade your school counselor should send the predictedEnglish test results: IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 80Common App personal essay (up to 650 words)One letter of recommendation is required from a teacher or counselorStony Brook is test optional for applicants. Admission to Stony Brook is based on a holistic review of a student’s academic record including the overall grade point average and strength of curriculum, as well as other academic and personal factors such as co-curricular and community involvement, evidence of leadership, special talents or interestHighlight research experience, science competitions, or unique extracurriculars in your applicationPortfolio, project links, or YouTube channel to enhance your application (optional)Apply via the CommonApp or the SBU Applicant PortalAstronomerPlanetary ScientistResearch ScientistData AnalystObservatory TechnicianScience EducatorScience CommunicatorLaboratory TechnicianTechnical WriterEnvironmental or Defence Industry Specialist
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