Program Overview
The Astronomy Associate of Science program provides a comprehensive foundation in astronomy principles, including the solar system, stars, galaxies, and cosmology. Students develop critical thinking and analytical skills through laboratory and observational activities, preparing them for further study or careers in astronomy, astrophysics, and related fields. The program requires coursework in chemistry, computer science, earth science, mathematics, and physics.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Astronomy, Associate of Science (AS)
Overview:
Astronomy has played a crucial role in the development of modern science and technology. Astronomers study the formation, chemistry, composition, and evolution of celestial objects. They work with advanced technology and instrumentation to explore planets, stars, galaxies, nebulae, black holes, and the universe itself. Students take astronomy courses to prepare for a major in astronomy, fulfill general education requirements in related fields, or prepare for various vocational jobs as technicians for high-tech industries.
Objectives:
- Gain a strong foundation in the principles of astronomy
- Develop critical thinking and analytical skills
- Learn to use scientific methods to investigate astronomical phenomena
- Prepare for further study in astronomy or related fields
- Prepare for careers in astronomy, astrophysics, space science, and other related fields
Program Description:
The Astronomy, Associate of Science (AS) program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of astronomy. The program covers topics such as:
- The history of astronomy
- The solar system
- Stars and galaxies
- Cosmology
- The search for extraterrestrial life Students will also gain hands-on experience through laboratory and observational activities.
Outline:
Department Requirements
- CHEM 155: General Chemistry I (5 units)
- CS 105: Theory and Practice I (3-4 units)
- OR CS 133: Introduction to Programming for Engineers
- OR CS 137: C Programming
- OR CS 140: Object-Oriented Programming Using C++
- ERTH 101: Introductory Astronomy (3-4 units)
- OR ERTH 101H: Introductory Astronomy, Honors
- ERTH 102: Observational Astronomy Laboratory (1 unit)
- ERTH 106: Black Holes and the Universe 1 (3-4 units)
- OR ERTH 111: Dynamic Earth - Physical Geology
- OR ERTH 111H: Dynamic Earth - Physical Geology, Honors
- OR ERTH 141: Physical Geography
- OR GEOG 101: Physical Geography
- MATH 150: Calculus with Analytic Geometry I (5 units)
- MATH 160: Calculus with Analytic Geometry II (5 units)
- PHYS 121: Mechanics Of Solids And Fluids (5 units)
- PHYS 122: Electricity and Magnetism (5 units)
- PHYS 123: Heat, Light and Modern Physics (5 units)
Careers:
Graduates with a bachelor's degree in astronomy pursue careers as:
- Museum and planetarium directors
- Astronomers/astrophysicists
- Space scientists
- Mission data analysts
- Spacecraft and instrument designers
- Teachers
- Observatory technicians
- Telescope operators
- Electronics technicians
- Computer programmers
- Optics specialists
- Mathematicians
- Electronics engineers
- Computer programmers