BS in Astronomy and Astrophysics

If you’re looking for a program that offers real access to world-class astronomy facilities and hands-on research, Ohio State University’s BS in Astronomy and Astrophysics stands out. You’ll also be part of a vibrant research community with access to both on-campus and remote observatories, as well as specialised laboratories.

Here’s a closer look at the specific facilities and resources available to you as an Astronomy and Astrophysics major at Ohio State:

• Perkins Observatory: OSU’s primary observational research instrument is the 1.8-meter Perkins Reflector, operated in collaboration with Ohio Wesleyan University and Lowell Observatory, located at a dark-sky site in Arizona. Students and faculty receive dedicated observing time and use state-of-the-art, department-built instruments for imaging and spectroscopy.

• Astronomical Instrumentation Facility (AIF): This facility is dedicated to the design and construction of advanced optical and infrared instruments for telescopes worldwide. Students can get involved in building and testing instruments used at leading observatories.

• OSU Imaging Sciences Laboratory (ISL): Supports the development and deployment of nearly thirty telescope instruments and subsystems used at observatories on five continents, many still in active research use.

• Departmental Computing Facilities: Access to an extensive, fully integrated network of more than 40 high-performance workstations and a Silicon Graphics Challenge-series graphics supercomputer, plus connections to the Ohio Supercomputer Centre for large-scale computational astrophysics and scientific visualisation.

• McPherson Laboratory: The central hub for astronomy undergraduates, with classrooms, research labs, and faculty offices. Students are encouraged to visit and get involved in the department’s activities.

• Global Observatory Access: OSU faculty and students are active participants in major research collaborations and have access to observatories and telescopes worldwide, from Chilean mountain tops to the South Pole.

• Research Collaborations: Opportunities to join research projects in extrasolar planetary systems, stellar evolution, cosmology, and atomic astrophysics, using both observational and theoretical approaches.

Graduates of Ohio State University’s BS in Astronomy and Astrophysics are equipped for exciting careers as research scientists, data analysts, observatory technicians, and science educators. You’ll gain a strong foundation in physics, applied mathematics, programming, and modern astrophysics—preparing you for both advanced study and technical roles in industry, education, and research. Here’s how Ohio State supports your progression and opportunities.

Here’s how Ohio State supports your future:

• Academic advising and mentorship: The Department of Astronomy provides personalised academic advising, faculty mentorship, and opportunities to participate in undergraduate research within astronomy or related fields like physics, chemistry, and math.

• Hands-on coursework: Students gain hands-on experience in observational techniques and data analysis through courses like Astron 3350 (Methods of Astronomical Observation and Data Analysis) and senior-level electives in planetary science, stellar evolution, or cosmology.

• Career services and internships: OSU Career Services connects students to internships, career fairs, and job placement resources, helping graduates secure positions at observatories, planetariums, science museums, and in computational research or public education programs.

• Industry and research connections: The program’s strong ties with national observatories, research centres, and industry partners provide access to real-world data, collaborative projects, and networking opportunities.

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

• Career and graduate readiness: Graduates are well-prepared for roles in teaching, research, and technical fields, and the curriculum is designed to support those pursuing graduate study in astronomy, astrophysics, or related physical sciences.

Further Academic Progression: After earning your BS in Astronomy and Astrophysics at Ohio State, you’ll be well-positioned to pursue a master’s in astronomy, astrophysics, or physics. Many graduates continue into advanced research, university teaching, or technical leadership roles at observatories, research labs, and space agencies.