Bachelor of Science in astronomy

Experiential Learning Highlights

As a BS Astronomy student at OU, you’ll engage in real, hands-on learning across research, observational astronomy, and scientific collaboration:

• Senior Research Project Sequence:
  In the final two semesters, you’ll complete Senior Research Project I & II (PHYS 4310 & 4320)—independent, faculty‑mentored work where you design experiments, analyze data, and prepare formal presentations or reports.

• Multi-Wavelength Observational Techniques Course:
  Through Advanced Observatory Methods (ASTR 4523/5523), students gain hands-on experience using telescopes and CCD cameras, and learning photometry, spectroscopy, and modern observational techniques across wavelengths.

• Undergraduate Research Opportunities with Faculty:
  The Astrophysics & Cosmology research group covers areas such as supernovae, exoplanets, cosmology, galaxy dynamics, and stellar evolution—where undergraduates contribute tangible work, often co-authoring papers or presenting at conferences.

• NSF‑REU Summer Research Program:
  OU runs an NSF-funded REU each summer (late May to July) that recruits students nationwide, offering paid, faculty-led astrophysics research, seminars, and mentorship. Stipend and housing are included. 

• Access to University Observatory:
  The on-campus University of Oklahoma Observatory features a 0.4 m Meade telescope used in teaching and student-driven observing. Undergraduate labs and outreach events utilize this facility throughout the year. 

• Seminars & Research Community Integration:
  Students participate in Journal Clubs, Astronomy Colloquia, and departmental seminars—sharing recent results and learning alongside faculty and graduate researchers. 

• Opportunities for Major Telescope Access:
  Remarkably, OU undergraduates have been awarded observation time at premier facilities like Gemini North and South, enabling real data collection at world-class observatories.

What You’ll Gain

• Real observational skills: Operate telescopes and cameras, collect and reduce data using modern instrumentation.

• Scientific research proficiency: From hypothesis to presentation, guided by faculty mentors.

• Computational expertise: Use and analyze datasets from professional observatories via project work and REUs.

• Professional communication skills: Present research at symposia, seminars, or conferences.

• Early integration into research communities: Engage in active work alongside faculty, grad students, and peers.

Progression & Future Opportunities:
Graduates of OU’s BS in Astronomy receive solid training in physics, mathematics, and observational science—preparing them for roles in data analysis, technical support for observatories, science education, and research assistance. Typical career paths include astrophysics researcher, telescope operations specialist, planetarium technician, or science policy analyst. The depth of coursework and hands-on astronomy experience makes this program valuable for both industry employment and further graduate study:

• Career Services and Support: OU’s Homer L. Dodge Department of Physics & Astronomy offers mandatory academic advising, senior research guidance, and access to undergraduate research opportunities. The Pomerantz Career Center provides resume and interviewing workshops, plus science‑focused employer events via HireJayhawks.com and departmental connections.

• Employment Stats & Salary Figures: While specific OU astronomy graduate salary data is not published, the program’s strong placement rate (≈92% of all OU graduates employed or in graduate school within six months) and the STEM nature of the major support starting salaries likely in the $60,000–$85,000 range for technical and analytic roles. 

• University–Industry Partnerships: Students participate in the NSF‑funded REU program, and OU undergraduates have been awarded observing time on international facilities like Gemini North and South telescopes. 

• Long-Term Accreditation Value: OU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and is classified as a Carnegie R1 research university, which adds global credibility and rigorous academic quality to the degree.

• Graduation Outcomes: Although small in number (~11 astronomy degrees awarded per year in 2021–22), students graduate with strong individual faculty mentorship, research credentials, and access to major telescopes—supporting placements in graduate programs as well as observatories or NASA-related internships. 

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates with a BS in Astronomy from OU are well-prepared for entry into competitive graduate programs in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or Physics. Many continue to OU’s own PhD Astrophysics program or elsewhere, building on research work begun during undergraduate years. The program also supports interdisciplinary graduate work in areas like Planetary Science, Computational Science, or STEM Education.