Astronomy Degrees

From astrophysics to cosmology and planetary geology: an astronomy degree is for those who love science and want to be a part of research into the world beyond our planet. Read our guide to studying a degree in astronomy, including an overview of common course topics, specialisations and career options. 

Course content

Astronomy is a scientific subject which studies a variety of phenomena outside of our planet using principles of physics as well as other sciences, equipment such as telescopes and observatories, some research experiments as well as the in-depth analysis of existing data. Subjects that students can expect to cover while studying astronomy include: 

• The sun 

• The moon 

• Stars 

• Other planets in our solar system 

• Comets 

• Laws of physics 

• Our galaxy 

• Emerging research into other galaxies 

Entry Requirements

Astronomy courses are often very competitive and require a good foundation of knowledge, therefore all students will need to have qualifications in maths and English or the national language equivalent. 

For other subjects, it is rare that students will have experience studying astronomy prior to university as so a variety of academic backgrounds are acceptable. Mathematics and science, particularly physics, are highly valued for prospective astronomy students. Other subjects that will be useful include geology, geography, statistics, chemistry, biology and environmental science. 

Course structure and assessment methods

An astrology programme will be made up of both compulsory modules, which students can use to form the basis of their subject specific knowledge, and elective modules which they can use to specialise in a particular topic or field. Some topics which are commonly incorporated into the compulsory modules are: 

• Astronomy basics 

• Calculus 

• Algebra 

• Quantum physics 

• Stellar studies 

• Galaxies 

• Atmospheres 

• Planetary systems 

• Technologies 

• Experimental methods 

• Solar systems 

• Astrological matter

Specialisations

There are many different subjects that students can specialise in during their studies. These include: 

• Cosmology - the study of the origins, evolution and basic structure of the universe. While general astronomy deals with individual celestial objects, cosmology is concerned with the universe as a whole. 

• Astrophysics - concerned with the physics of celestial objects, including stars, planets and galaxies, their properties and how they behave. Some of the most popularised areas of study for astrophysicists include attempts to determine the properties of dark matter, dark energy, and black holes; whether or not time travel is possible, whether wormholes can form, or the multiverse exists; and the origins and ultimate fate of the universe. 

• Astrobiology - the study of the origins, evolution and possible future of living organisms in the universe, both on Earth and beyond. This interdisciplinary field includes the search for habitable environments both within and beyond our own solar system. 

• Solar astrophysics - if you choose to specialize in solar astrophysics, you will study the properties and behaviour of the sun and use this knowledge to progress understanding of other stars and systems. The study of solar physics is very important, as it is believed that changes in the solar atmosphere and solar activity can have a major impact on the Earth's climate. 

• Planetary geology - apply geological studies to learn about the composition and behaviour of planets, moons, comets, asteroids and other structures. This field of study is closely linked to earth-based geology and tells us more about the chemical properties and behaviours of these structures. 

Career options

Many graduates of astronomy degrees go on to pursue specialised astronomy careers, such as: 

• Astronomer – someone who studies the universe, all the objects and structures within it and how everything works. They use principles of maths and physics to analyse data and to find out more about these structures. 

• Astrophysicist – attempts to understand the universe through scientific models and principles. The role will include conducting experiments, presenting new research, peer reviewing the research of their colleagues and developing new technologies to collect more accurate data. 

• Astronomy professor – some students choose to remain in an academic setting and teach a new generation of students about astronomy as well as conducting some of their own research. Topics of study will generally remain the same however, as new information becomes available, modules may evolve or be replaced from one year to the next. 

• Observatory astronomer – astronomers who work in an observatory setting will have a designated part of the electromagnetic spectrum to study as each observatory specialises in and is tailored to a specific area. 

• Astronomy exhibit designer - someone who creates three dimensional displays which help students visualise a planet, solar system, or galaxy. This is a creative role will involve the making of scale models of different space structures and the maintenance of the exhibit to ensure its accuracy. 

• Space mission astronomer – this is an astronomer role which will include the study of the universe, objects and structures within it and how everything works, however, their role will be part of the research that goes into designing and completing a trip into space. Their work will ensure aircraft and astronaut safety. 

• Aerospace engineer – an aerospace engineer is someone who designs, builds and maintains space aircraft equipment. This includes any machinery which is capable of flight outside the earth’s atmosphere, including spaceships and satellites. 

• Director of a planetarium – planetariums are theatres which host educational shows about astronomy and conduct celestial training for those working in the field. The director of a planetarium will be tasked with overseeing the daily running of the planetarium and making plans for the future. 

• Science writer – someone who conducts scientific research, writes and publishes reports. The exact topic that they write about will depend on their area of study and the company that they work for. 

• Meteorologist – conducts research to collect information about the earth’s atmosphere in order to predict weather occurrences. They use scientific principles to analyse the earth’s atmosphere and are often involved in forecasting and climate prediction.