Bachelor of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics

The Bachelor of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Daytona Beach) is a four-year, on-campus program that combines rigorous coursework in physics and astronomy with extensive hands-on research opportunities. The program is designed to prepare students for graduate study and careers in astronomy, astrophysics, and related fields by leveraging cutting-edge facilities and strong faculty connections to major research resources.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of specific facilities and experiential learning:

• 1-Meter DFM Ritchey-Chrétien Telescope: The centrepiece of the department’s observatory facilities, this is the largest university research telescope in the southeastern United States and the largest in Florida. Housed in a 32-foot diameter dome atop the College of Arts and Sciences building, the telescope is equipped with high-efficiency detectors and advanced optics, enabling research on faint celestial objects, exoplanets, asteroids, stars, galaxies, and more. The observatory includes a dedicated control room and workshop for instrument development and data analysis.

• Astrophysics Laboratory: One of two primary locations for student learning and research, this lab supports both undergraduate and faculty research in astronomy and astrophysics, providing hands-on experience with astronomical instrumentation and data processing.

• Laboratory for Exosphere and Near Space Environment Studies (LENSES): This dynamic lab allows students to participate in research on planetary atmospheres and near-space environments, supporting both experimental and computational projects.

• Observatory Control Room and Workshop: Located adjacent to the observatory, these spaces are designed for telescope operation, instrument calibration, and maintenance, giving students direct experience with the technical aspects of observational astronomy.

• Department Membership in SARA (Southeastern Association for Research in Astronomy): This affiliation provides students with nearly continuous telescope access to almost 90% of the sky, expanding research opportunities beyond the Daytona Beach campus.

• Access to Major Space-Based Observatories: Faculty connections enable student involvement in research using data from the Hubble Space Telescope, Kepler Mission, Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), James Webb Space Telescope, and other NASA and NSF-sponsored facilities.

• 25 Dedicated Labs in the College of Arts and Sciences: These labs support research and teaching in astronomy, astrophysics, atmospheric and space physics, and related fields, ensuring students have access to modern equipment and collaborative spaces.

Graduates of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Bachelor of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics are equipped for high-impact careers as data analysts, research scientists, optical engineers, and science educators. You’ll find Embry-Riddle alumni working at leading organisations like NASA, the Naval Sea Systems Command, MIT-Haystack Observatory, and the Harvard-Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, as well as pursuing advanced research and technical roles in industry and academia.

Here’s how Embry-Riddle gives you an advantage:

• Career Services and Support: Embry-Riddle’s strong faculty connections and Career Services team help you secure internships, research experiences, and job placements. You’ll have access to hands-on projects with major resources like the Hubble Space Telescope, Kepler Mission, Transiting Earth Survey Satellite, and the James Webb Space Telescope, plus on-campus observatories and labs.

• Employment Stats and Salary Figures: 94% of Embry-Riddle graduates are employed in their field or continuing their education within a year of graduation. Astronomy and astrophysics graduates report competitive salaries, with the average annual salary for astronomers at $149,530 as of 2023, and a projected 5% growth in physics and astronomy jobs through 2032.

• University–Industry Partnerships: Students benefit from research projects funded by NASA and the National Science Foundation, and work closely with faculty involved in groundbreaking space science missions. The program’s close ties to industry and government agencies open doors for co-ops, internships, and networking.

• Long-term Accreditation Value: Embry-Riddle is a nationally ranked, regionally accredited university, and its astronomy and astrophysics program is considered among the top in the U.S., ensuring your degree is highly respected by employers and graduate schools.

• Graduation Outcomes: You’ll graduate with a solid foundation in math, physics, and astronomy, plus hands-on experience in telescope operation, data analysis, and scientific communication. Learning outcomes include applying astronomy models to real systems, operating advanced telescopes and detectors, and developing and testing physical models of astronomical systems.

Further Academic Progression: After earning your B.S. in Astronomy and Astrophysics at Embry-Riddle, you’ll be fully prepared to pursue a master’s in astronomy, astrophysics, or space sciences, setting you up for advanced research, university teaching, or technical leadership roles at observatories, research institutions, and space agencies.