Astronomy Minor
- Minor Requirements
- Minor code: ORASTR
Program Overview
The minor in astronomy is an option for non-physics majors who wish to study astronomy as a special interest. The minor provides students with a substantial introduction to topics related to the nature of stars, the interstellar medium and galaxies, and the methods by which each is studied.
Opportunities Upon Graduation
Students completing the astronomy minor possess high-level problem-solving skills that can lead to opportunities for employment in research institutions, government, industry, or teaching.
Admissions Information
Freshman/First-Year Admission: It is recommended that students entering the program have at least placement level II, or an ACT Math score of 24, or a SAT Math score of 560.
Change of Program Policy: It is recommended that students entering the program have at least placement level II, or an ACT Math score of 24, or a SAT Math score of 560.
External Transfer Admission: It is recommended that students entering the program have at least placement level II, or an ACT Math score of 24, or a SAT Math score of 560.
Requirements
Minor Hours Requirement
The astronomy minor requires a minimum of 22 hours.
General Physics Sequence
General Physics I
Complete one of the following courses:
- PHYS 2051 - General Physics Credit Hours: 5.0
- PHYS 2051H - General Physics for Physics and Astronomy Majors Credit Hours: 5.0
General Physics II
Complete one of the following courses:
- PHYS 2052 - General Physics Credit Hours: 5.0
- PHYS 2052H - General Physics for Physics and Astronomy Majors Credit Hours: 5.0
Additional Courses
Complete the following courses:
- ASTR 3251 - Fundamentals of Astrophysics Credit Hours: 3.0
- PHYS 2053 - Contemporary Physics: Relativity and Quantum Phenomena Credit Hours: 3.0
Minor Electives
Complete at least 6 hours from the following courses:
- ASTR 3940 - Astronomy Laboratory Credit Hours: 1.0-3.0
- ASTR 4201 - Stellar Astrophysics and Radiation Credit Hours: 3.0
- ASTR 4202 - Interstellar Medium and Galaxies Credit Hours: 3.0
- ASTR 4271 - Observational Astrophysics Credit Hours: 3.0
- ASTR 4930 - Studies in Astronomy Credit Hours: 1.0-6.0