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The University of New Mexico’s B.A. in Physics and Astrophysics provides solid training in physics and astronomy while offering flexibility to engage in other academic interests. It’s ideal for students wanting to combine science with fields like education, communication, or business, without committing to a research-intensive track.
Curriculum Structure:
First Year:
Students begin with General Physics I & II with lab and Calculus I & II, alongside introductory astronomy courses (ASTR 2115 and lab) that explore celestial mechanics, planetary systems, and observational methods.
Second Year:
Courses include Modern Physics and several upper-level physics or astronomy electives. Requirements typically include two upper-level Physics/Astronomy courses (one astronomy lab course must be included) and foundational math support.
Third Year:
Students choose additional 300–level courses in physics or astronomy, such as Electromagnetism, Quantum Mechanics, or Extragalactic Astronomy, tailored to their interests.
Fourth Year:
The curriculum is flexible, allowing students to complete degree requirements while pursuing a minor or double major outside the sciences. It does not require a capstone research component, focusing instead on breadth and interdisciplinary learning.
Focus Areas:
General Astronomy & Astrophysics, foundational physics, observational methods, and broad academic flexibility.
Learning Outcomes:
Graduates will possess an understanding of core physics and astronomy principles, be able to interpret observational data, and apply scientific reasoning across disciplines. The degree also supports communication and application of scientific concepts in diverse fields.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
Offered by UNM’s Department of Physics and Astronomy, the program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and aligns with national STEM education standards.
Reputation (Employability Rankings):
UNM’s Department of Physics and Astronomy is R1-classified, and the programs are nationally recognized for excellence. While the B.A. track is less research‑intensive, it offers flexibility and strong undergraduate research opportunities in the department
Experiential Learning Highlights
Faculty‑Mentored Undergraduate Research
UNM’s Department of Physics & Astronomy strongly emphasizes undergraduate research. Most students begin collaborating with faculty in their sophomore or junior year, working on projects across areas like theoretical cosmology, exoplanet science, dark matter studies, and cosmic microwave background research. Many students co-author papers or present at conferences.
Senior Research Thesis Option (Honors track)
Students have the opportunity to enroll in an honors-level independent study/register for ASTR/PHYS 456—designing a year-long project, working closely with a faculty mentor, and preparing a formal thesis.
NSF-funded REU Summer Program
UNM hosts a 10-week Research Experiences for Undergraduates specifically for physics and astronomy majors. Participants receive a stipend (~$6,000), housing, travel funding, and training in research methods and scientific communication.
Active Research Centers & Collaborations
Undergraduate students can join research groups tied to the Center for Astrophysical Research and Technologies (CART), the New Mexico Center for Particle Physics, and connections with national labs—including Sandia, Los Alamos, and NRAO.
Astronomy & Astrophysics Journal Club and Seminars
Students participate in weekly astronomy colloquia, journal clubs, and research seminars—interacting with faculty, graduate students, and visiting researchers.
Real Astrophysics Projects & Senior Thesis Work
Recent student projects include topics like measuring stellar velocities in the Milky Way, exoplanet atmospheric modeling, instrumentation development, and radio-frequency interference analysis.
State-of-the-Art Building Facilities (PAIS)
The PAIS building houses departmental teaching labs and research spaces designed for interactive learning and hands-on physics/astronomy experimentation.
What You’ll Gain
Progression & Future Opportunities:
Graduates of UNM’s BS in Astrophysics gain strong training in physics, mathematics, astronomy, and computational methods—preparing them for careers in scientific research, aerospace, observatory operations, data analytics, and science policy. Common roles include astrophysics researcher, telescope instrumentation specialist, science data analyst, or technical consultant.
Career Services Support: The Department of Physics & Astronomy provides individualized academic advising, research mentorship, and access to the active Society of Physics Students. In addition, UNM’s university-wide career center offers STEM-specific coaching, internship placement services, and professional development support.
Employment Stats & Salary Figures: While program-specific placement data isn't public, UNM is a Carnegie R1 research university and STEM graduates typically have favorable outcomes. Starting salaries for majors with analytical and observational training often range from $60,000 to $85,000, depending on role and region.
University–Industry Partnerships: Students engage with research facilities such as the Center for Astrophysical Research and Technologies, nearby observatories like the Apache Point Observatory, and summer research through UNM’s NSF-supported REU program, which includes a $6,000 stipend, travel support, and faculty mentorship.
Accreditation & Long‑Term Value: UNM is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The BS in Astrophysics equips students with the rigorous analytical and technical foundation needed for global recognition in academic and professional settings.
Graduation Outcomes: Alumni typically advance into graduate programs or technical roles in observatories, aerospace firms, national labs, and science communication. Undergraduate research and faculty collaboration often leads to strong placements in advanced STEM pathways.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates are exceptionally well-prepared for Master’s or PhD programs in Astrophysics, Physics, or Astronomy, including UNM’s own graduate program offering a Physics MS/PhD with an Astrophysics concentration.
The strong computational and observational training also positions graduates for interdisciplinary graduate fields like Planetary Science, Data Science, Engineering, or Science Communication, supported by UNM’s research centers and faculty-led projects.
University of New Mexico operates a test-optional admissions policy: undergraduate applicants in Fall 2026 do not need to submit SAT or ACT scores. Scores may be submitted optionally and may assist with placement or scholarship considerations.Applicants from international or national board systems (e.g. CBSE, ISC, IB) may apply without SAT/ACT scores. High school transcripts and board exam results are considered contextually and holistically.English proficiency tests (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, PTE) are required only if secondary instruction was not in English; standard minimums: TOEFL iBT 68–79, IELTS 6.0–6.5, Duolingo 95–105, PTE 47–53. Waived if SAT/ACT English scores meet thresholds.Letters of recommendation are not required for general admission to either program. These may be requested separately for honors or scholarship consideration.Applicants must submit the Common App, Coalition App, or UNM application. No general supplemental essays are required unless applying to specific scholarships or honors.Interviews are not offered or required as part of the admissions process.Recommended high school coursework includes four years of English, at least three years of math (including calculus), laboratory science (especially physics), social studies, and world language. Prior astronomy is not required but strong preparation in math and physics is encouraged.UNM undergraduate degrees require 120 credit hours, completion of the UNM General Education Core, at least 42 upper-division credits, and minimum GPA of 2.0 overall. Residence requirements apply.Research Assistant – supports astrophysics research in labs or observatoriesData Analyst – analyzes scientific data for research or industrySoftware Developer – builds tools for simulations or data processingPlanetarium Educator – presents astronomy content to public audiencesObservatory Technician – maintains and operates telescope systemsHigh School Physics Teacher – teaches physics and basic astronomyAerospace Technician – assists in spacecraft testing and designScience Communicator – explains space science through media or outreachSatellite Operations Analyst – monitors and manages satellite functionsGraduate Student – continues academic study toward research or teaching
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