BSc Astronomy

If you’re passionate about exploring the universe and want to gain hands-on experience with world-class telescopes and cutting-edge research, the University of Arizona’s BSc in Astronomy is an exceptional choice. You’ll engage directly with advanced telescopes, instrumentation labs, and powerful computing resources, gaining practical skills in observational techniques, data analysis, and instrument design.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Steward Observatory: Access to state-of-the-art optical and infrared telescopes, including the 90-inch Bok Telescope on Kitt Peak and remote observing capabilities at world-class sites, enabling hands-on observational astronomy.

• Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab: Participate in projects related to the fabrication of large, precision telescope mirrors, gaining insight into astronomical instrumentation and engineering.

• Imaging Technology Lab: Work with advanced imaging systems and detectors used in modern astronomy research.

• Steward Observatory Radio Astronomy Lab: Engage with radio astronomy instrumentation and data analysis, broadening your observational skills across the electromagnetic spectrum.

• Centre for Astronomical Adaptive Optics: Learn about cutting-edge adaptive optics technology that corrects atmospheric distortion, improving telescope imaging quality.

• High-Performance Computing Resources: Utilise powerful computing clusters for astrophysical simulations, data reduction, and analysis.

• NASA Mission Collaborations: Benefit from the university’s close ties to NASA missions, with opportunities for internships and research projects connected to space exploration.

• Active Astronomy Community: Join student groups and outreach programs that organise observing nights, seminars, and public education events, enhancing your communication and teamwork skills.

Graduates of the University of Arizona’s BSc in Astronomy program are well-prepared for careers as research scientists, observatory technicians, data analysts, and science educators. Here’s how the University of Arizona specifically supports your progression and opportunities:

• Interdisciplinary foundation: The BSc in Astronomy is a rigorous four-year, on-campus program requiring 120 credit hours (including 42 upper-division credits) and automatically awards a Physics Minor.

• Technical preparation: You’ll gain hands-on experience with research-grade telescopes and CCD imaging systems at Steward Observatory, and develop skills in data reduction and analysis using professional astronomical software like IRAF.

• Diverse curriculum: The curriculum covers classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum physics, thermodynamics, stellar and galactic evolution, cosmology, and computational techniques, preparing you for diverse roles in astronomy and related fields.

• Professional recognition: The University of Arizona is regionally accredited and consistently ranked among the top astronomy programs globally. The Bachelor of Science in Astronomy is ranked #56 in the USA, and the university is ranked #109 nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2025).

• Industry partnerships: The program maintains strong partnerships with Steward Observatory, NASA, and major national and international observatories, offering students opportunities for collaborative research and internships.

• Career services: Career services provide internships, job placement assistance, and networking with leading research centres and industry partners.

• Graduate success: Graduates often continue to top graduate programs or secure positions at national observatories, research labs, planetariums, and space agencies.

Further Academic Progression: After earning your BSc in Astronomy at the University of Arizona, you’ll be well-positioned to pursue a master’s degrees in astronomy, astrophysics, or related fields—opening doors to advanced research, university teaching, and technical leadership roles at national and international observatories, research institutions, and space agencies.