BA in Astronomy

At BU, you’ll gain practical skills through direct use of telescopes, research projects, and opportunities to work with faculty on cutting-edge investigations. The department’s facilities and resources are designed to immerse you in both observational and theoretical astronomy, preparing you for graduate study or a career in science and technology.

Here’s how you’ll build your expertise and where you’ll do it:

• Judson B. Coit Observatory: Located on the rooftop of the College of Arts & Sciences building, this observatory features instructional optical and radio telescopes for hands-on coursework, night sky observations, and student-led projects.

• Field Trips to Major Telescopes: Students may participate in field trips to Flagstaff, Arizona, to use the 1.8m Perkins Telescope and the 4.3m Lowell Discovery Telescope, gaining experience with professional-grade astronomical instruments as part of their coursework.

• Institute for Astrophysical Research & Centre for Space Physics: Join research groups in these affiliated centres, working on projects ranging from planetary atmospheres to black holes, and benefit from access to supercomputers, NASA/ESA satellite data, and mission development opportunities.

• Undergraduate Research: Most astronomy majors at BU participate in research with faculty, often leading to scientific publications or presentations at conferences. You’ll receive hands-on training and mentorship in forefront topics like astrophysics, planetary science, and space physics.

• Small Class Sizes & Faculty Engagement: Enjoy small classes that foster close student-faculty connections and provide ample opportunity for collaborative learning and individualised support.

• Access to Advanced Computing Resources: Use on-campus and remote supercomputers for data analysis and simulation as part of your research and coursework.

• Opportunities for Scientific Meetings and Outreach: Attend scientific meetings and participate in outreach activities, developing communication and leadership skills alongside your technical training.

Graduates of Boston University’s BA in Astronomy program are ready to thrive in a variety of STEM careers—think data analyst, science communicator, research technician, or planetarium educator. This degree equips you with technical skills, critical thinking, and hands-on experience that employers in today’s high-tech world value highly.

Here’s how BU supports your progression and future opportunities:

• University Services: You’ll benefit from small class sizes and close faculty-student interaction, including access to the BU Observatory for night-sky observations and advanced labs. The BU Hub general education program integrates communication, quantitative reasoning, and scientific inquiry skills into your degree.

• Employment Stats & Salary Figures: While specific BU Astronomy stats aren’t published, the program is designed to prepare you for entry into the competitive STEM workforce, where technical and analytical skills command strong starting salaries and long-term career growth.

• University–Industry Partnerships: BU’s Astronomy Department maintains active research collaborations with national observatories and space agencies. Students often participate in faculty research, gaining real-world experience and professional contacts.

• Long-term Accreditation Value: As part of the College of Arts & Sciences at a leading research university, your degree is widely recognised and respected, providing a solid foundation for both employment and further study.

• Graduation Outcomes: You’ll graduate with experience in observational astronomy, physics, and mathematics, ready for roles in research, education, technical fields, or science outreach.

Further Academic Progression: If you’re considering graduate school, BU’s BA in Astronomy prepares you for master’s programs in astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, or related fields. Many students continue on to advanced study, leveraging their strong background in research and technical skills to pursue careers in academia, research institutions, or the space industry.