B.S. in Astronomy

If you’re ready to explore the universe using advanced technology and real research experience, Case Western Reserve University’s B.S. in Astronomy is a fantastic choice. Experiential learning is at the core of the program. You’ll use professional-grade telescopes, work with faculty on original research, and analyse real astronomical data using advanced software and databases.

Here’s how you’ll gain practical skills and make the most of CWRU’s outstanding facilities:

• 9 1/2 Inch Rooftop Telescope: Located atop the A.W. Smith building, this refractor is available to all astronomy students for hands-on observing, laboratory exercises, and research projects. Training and scheduling are coordinated by department faculty.

• Kitt Peak Station of the Warner and Swasey Observatory: Operate and analyse data from the Burrell Schmidt telescope near Tucson, Arizona—used for ultra-deep imaging and galaxy surveys with a large-format CCD camera.

• Extensive Computational Facilities: Access a departmental network of MacOS, Linux, and Windows workstations, as well as CWRU’s high-performance computing cluster for data analysis, simulations, and research computing.

• Research Databases: Work with faculty-developed, publicly available databases such as the Burrell Schmidt Deep Virgo Survey, the SPARC Galaxy Database, and the FGK Stars Spectral Library for advanced astronomical research and projects.

• Faculty-Led Research: Collaborate with faculty on projects in galaxy formation and evolution, cosmology, and stellar astrophysics, often leading to presentations or publications.

• Science Communication and Outreach: Develop your communication skills through public observing events and departmental outreach, sharing your passion for astronomy with the community.

Graduates of Case Western Reserve University’s B.S. in Astronomy are ready for impactful careers as research scientists, data analysts, science educators, and public outreach specialists. With a rigorous foundation in astronomy, physics, and mathematics, you’ll be prepared for both graduate study and technical roles in science and industry. Here’s how Case Western supports your progression and opportunities.

Here’s how Case Western Reserve University supports your future:

• Personalised advising and mentorship: The Department of Astronomy offers personalised academic advising and close mentorship from faculty actively engaged in research, ensuring you receive guidance tailored to your goals.

• Hands-on research experience: You’ll gain hands-on experience through undergraduate research opportunities, including work with the Burrell Schmidt telescope at Kitt Peak Station in Arizona and the on-campus 9.5-inch refractor, as well as access to high-performance computing resources.

• Skill-focused curriculum: The curriculum emphasises data analysis, computational methods, and science communication, preparing you for roles in research, education, and technical fields.

• Graduate and career outcomes: About 50% of astronomy graduates pursue graduate study in astronomy or related fields, while others secure positions in data science, education, and technical industries—often in roles similar to those filled by physics and computer science majors.

• Industry and research connections: The department’s strong research focus and industry connections offer opportunities for collaborative projects and internships, providing real-world experience and professional networking.

• Accreditation and recognition: Case Western Reserve University is regionally accredited, and the College of Arts and Sciences is nationally recognised, ensuring your degree is respected by employers and graduate schools worldwide.

• Alumni success: Recent graduates have continued to top graduate programs or secured employment in research labs, observatories, and science outreach organisations.

Further Academic Progression: After earning your B.S. in Astronomy at Case Western, you’ll be highly competitive for master’s programs in astronomy, astrophysics, or physics. Many graduates advance to research, university teaching, or technical leadership roles at observatories, research labs, and space agencies.