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The University of Oklahoma’s B.S. in Astrophysics (Major Code B082) is a physics-intensive, professionally oriented degree designed for students aiming for graduate research or technical careers in astrophysics, data science, or aerospace. This program combines strong physics training with astronomy-focused coursework and research, supported by access to state-of-the-art observational facilities including Apache Point Observatory.
Curriculum Structure:
First Year:
Students begin with foundational physics classes including Introductory Physics I & II (PHYS 1205 & 1215), and Calculus I & II (MATH 1914 & 2924). They also take ASTR 2513: Introductory Astrophysics, which introduces celestial mechanics, stellar basics, and observation fundamentals.
Second Year:
Core astronomy courses such as ASTR 3103: Stars and ASTR 3113: Galaxies and Cosmology, plus PHYS 2203: Modern Physics and PHYS 3043/3053: Physical Mechanics I & II, deepen understanding of stellar structure, cosmology, and dynamics.
Third Year:
Students begin the PHYS 4310 & 4320 Senior Research Project I & II sequence, gaining collaborative research experience under faculty mentorship using real observational data. This year also includes upper-level electives in physics and astronomy.
Fourth Year:
The final year is dedicated to completing the senior research project and selecting advanced electives in topics like observational instrumentation, theoretical astrophysics, or the history of science.
Focus Areas:
Observational astrophysics, stellar and galactic evolution, cosmology, physics-based modeling, instrumentation, and independent research.
Learning Outcomes:
Graduates will be proficient in interpreting astronomical data, applying modern physics principles to cosmic systems, conducting guided research, and communicating scientific ideas effectively—essential skills for graduate study or technical roles in industry.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
The program is administered by OU’s Homer L. Dodge Department of Physics & Astronomy within the College of Arts & Sciences and adheres to national STEM education standards. Students can access research tools such as the OU Observatory and Apache Point Observatory, and participate in NSF-supported REU programs.
Reputation (Employability Rankings):
OU’s astrophysics degree is ranked highly by College Factual: #24 nationally and #1 in Oklahoma for astronomy programs. OU itself is classified as an R1 research university with significant national research activity.
Experiential Learning Highlights
Senior Research Project Series (PHYS 4310 & 4320)
In your final two semesters, you'll undertake individual, faculty-supervised research—designing experiments, conducting data analysis, and presenting findings formally via written reports and oral or poster presentations.
Advanced Observatory Methods (ASTR 4523/5523)
This course provides hands-on experience using telescopes and CCD cameras for photometry, spectroscopy, and multi-wavelength observational techniques.
Faculty-Mentored Undergraduate Research
Undergraduates frequently collaborate with faculty working in fields like supernovae, exoplanets, galaxy dynamics, and cosmology—often co-authoring papers or presenting at conferences.
NSF-Funded REU Program at OU
Every summer, a competitive REU program allows students to work full-time in astrophysics research at OU, participate in seminars, and present their projects. Housing and a stipend of ~$6,000 are provided.
Access to World-Class Telescopes
OU students have recently been awarded observation time on top-tier facilities like Gemini North and South telescopes—taking leadership roles in data collection and analysis, even publishing results.
On-Campus Observatory Experience
At the University of Oklahoma Observatory, featuring a 0.4 m Meade telescope, students gain practical telescope training and participate in public astronomy events such as the OU Star Party.
Journal Clubs, Seminars & Research Community
Engage in weekly Astronomy Journal Club, departmental colloquia, and research seminars—essential for building scientific discourse skills and staying current with ongoing astrophysics work.
High-Performance Computational Resources
Through the Astrophysics & Cosmology group, undergraduates have access to OU’s OSCER supercomputer and collaborations with Argonne and NERSC for data-heavy research in cosmology and galaxy evolution.
What You’ll Gain
University of Oklahoma follows a test-optional admissions policy; SAT or ACT are voluntary. Submitted scores are superscored and reviewed holistically, with GPA and academic rigor as primary admissions factorsInternational or CBSE/ISC/IB applicants may apply without standardized test scores; admissions evaluates transcripts and board results contextuallyEnglish proficiency tests (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, PTE) are required only if secondary instruction was not in English; score thresholds are standard and waived if standardized test English section meets requirementsLetters of recommendation are not required for general admission and none are requested specifically for the Astrophysics major Application via Common App or OU direct application; no supplemental essays are required unless specific scholarships or honors programs state otherwise No interviews are offered or required for admission Recommended high school coursework includes rigorous math through calculus, physics and chemistry, English, world language, and social studies to prepare for major courseworkPrior astronomy coursework is not required; strong foundation in calculus and physics is expected to manage major pathwayDegree requires 120 total credit hours, 50 major credit hours, and 48 upper‑division credit hours minimum; minimum GPA 2.00 both overall and within the majorMajor coursework includes core astronomy courses (e.g. Introductory Astrophysics, Stars, Stellar Astrophysics) and core physics courses (including calculus-based mechanics, E&M, quantum mechanics); students must earn C or better in all math, physics, and astronomy courseMajor support requirements include calculus I–III plus Physical Mathematics I (total ~15 credits); additional math/physics electives recommendedResearch Assistant – supports astrophysics research in labs or observatoriesData Analyst – analyzes scientific data for research or industrySoftware Developer – builds tools for simulations or data processingPlanetarium Educator – presents astronomy content to public audiencesObservatory Technician – maintains and operates telescope systemsHigh School Physics Teacher – teaches physics and basic astronomyAerospace Technician – assists in spacecraft testing and designScience Communicator – explains space science through media or outreachSatellite Operations Analyst – monitors and manages satellite functionsGraduate Student – continues academic study toward research or teaching
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