BS Astrophysics

If you’re eager to explore the universe using advanced technology and real research opportunities, the BS in Astrophysics at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities is an ideal fit. You’ll use specialised software, participate in group research, and have opportunities to present your findings, preparing you for graduate study or a technical career.

Here’s how you’ll gain hands-on experience as an Astrophysics major at UMN:

• Mount Lemmon Observing Facility (MLOF): Conduct observational research using UMN’s own observatory near Tucson, Arizona, giving you experience with professional-grade telescopes and instrumentation.

• On-Campus Laboratory and Computational Facilities: Access dedicated computational labs for astrophysics data analysis and simulation, and participate in laboratory-based coursework using modern scientific equipment.

• AST 4031 (Interpretation and Analysis of Astrophysical Data): Learn to analyse large astrophysical datasets using advanced digital tools and modern analysis techniques.

• AST 4041 (Computational Methods in the Physical Sciences): Gain hands-on experience in scientific computing and modelling, using industry-standard software for astrophysics applications.

• Directed Research (AST 4994W): Engage in independent or group research projects under faculty supervision, often leading to presentations or co-authorship on scientific papers.

• Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU): Apply for the School of Physics and Astronomy’s competitive REU program—a 10-week paid summer research experience working directly with faculty and staff on real astrophysics projects.

• Group Projects: Collaborate with peers in laboratory and computational projects throughout your coursework, building teamwork and scientific problem-solving skills.

• Faculty Research Areas: Work with faculty on research in areas such as the evolution of stars and galaxies, the interstellar medium, cosmology, and both observational and computational astrophysics.

• Access to University Libraries and Research Institutes: Utilise the university’s extensive library system and research centres to support your studies and research.

Graduates of the University of Minnesota Twin Cities’ BS in Astrophysics program are prepared for impactful roles as professional astronomers, computational astrophysicists, data analysts, and laboratory scientists. You’ll develop the skills to tackle complex scientific problems and launch your career in research, education, or industry. Here’s how UMN supports your progression and opportunities.

Here’s how the University of Minnesota supports your future:

• Advising and faculty access: The Minnesota Institute for Astrophysics provides personalised academic advising, access to internationally respected faculty, and opportunities to work on major astrophysical research problems using national and international observatories.

• Hands-on learning: Students gain hands-on experience with excellent observational, laboratory, and computational facilities, and are encouraged to participate in faculty-led research projects.

• Career support: UMN Career Services connects students to internships and job opportunities in research labs, observatories, and technical industries, and supports career planning and professional development.

• Career pathways: The astrophysics program prepares students for careers in professional astronomy, computational astrophysics, secondary education, ROTC programs in the Air Force or Navy, data analysis, and laboratory science.

• Accreditation and reputation: The College of Science and Engineering is regionally accredited, and UMN is ranked among the top public research universities, ensuring your degree is highly respected by employers and graduate schools worldwide.

• Research and industry collaboration: The program’s strong industry and research partnerships provide access to collaborative projects and real-world data, enhancing your technical and analytical skills.

• Graduate program readiness: Graduates are well-positioned for roles in research, teaching, and technical fields, and are frequently accepted into top-tier graduate programs in astronomy and physics.

Further Academic Progression: After earning your BS in Astrophysics at UMN Twin Cities, you’ll be highly competitive for master’s programs in astrophysics, astronomy, or physics, leading to advanced research, university teaching, or technical leadership roles at national observatories, research labs, and space agencies