B.Sc. in Astrophysics Courses, Syllabus, Top Colleges and Scope 2023

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Sounak Banerjee

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B.Sc. in Astrophysics is an undergraduate involving the study of the physical and chemical properties of celestial bodies and the natural phenomena that occur in the universe.

B.Sc. in Astrophysics is a 3- year long full- time course designed to train enrolled students in specializations such as Thermodynamics, Electromagnetism, Newtonian Dynamics, Waves, Optics, Modern Physics, and pursue an advanced exploration of Atomic, Nuclear and Quantum Physics, Solid State Physics, Relativity, Quantum Physics, Fluid Mechanics etc.

B.Sc. in Astrophysics: Course Objectives

Listed here are some of the principle objectives of the course.

  • To explore the composition of the universe better.
  • To reveal the truths and dispel the myths related to the universe.
  • To develop new techniques of observation for a better understanding of the solar system.
B.Sc. in Astrophysics: Course Highlights

B.Sc. in Astrophysics: Course Highlights

Listed below are some of the major highlights of the course.

Name of the course B.Sc. In Astrophysics
Course Level Graduation
Duration 3 years, full- time/ Distance Learning
Stream Astrophysics
Examination Type Semester System
Eligibility 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Math
Admission Process Based on the candidate’s performance in the written tests conducted at the level of institutes, and the round of personal interview.
Average Course Fee INR 5K to 5 Lacs
Average Starting Salary INR 2 to 25 Lacs
Top Recruiting Companies Planetariums, Universities, Observatories, Laboratories, Defense and Space Research Organizations, Electrical Component Manufacturers, Electronic Equipment Manufacturers.
B.Sc. in Astrophysics: Admission Process

B.Sc. in Astrophysics: Admission Process                           

Most institutes offering the course follow a merit- based admission process. The process involves an assessment of the candidate on the basis of score at the 10+2 level, and in a relevant national, State, or institute- level entrance test.

B.Sc. in Astrophysics: Syllabus and Course Structure

B.Sc. in Astrophysics: Syllabus and Course Structure

A year- wise breakup of the course’s syllabus is given here.

Year I

Physics, special relativity, oscillations and waves, mechanics, fields, properties of matter and laboratory work
Mathematics
Astrophysics, including stars and planets, galaxies and the universe

Year II

Quantum mechanics, classical mechanics, cosmology, thermal physics, electromagnetism, mathematical physics, and nuclear and particle physics
Practical laboratory, computing and science presentation skills

Year III

Galaxies, high energy astrophysics, stellar structure, particle physics
Core physics:
Skills for science
One of:
Astrophysics research project
Dissertation
Physics Education unit in partnership with a school
Industrial Group Project.
Top Institutes Offering B.Sc. in Astrophysics

Top Institutes Offering B.Sc. in Astrophysics

The average tuition fee charged in India for the course ranges between INR 5,000 (government institutes) to 5 lacs (private institutes).

Listed below are some of the best institutes in India that offer B.Sc. in Astrophysics:

SR.NO. COLLEGE/INSTITUTE STATE TUITION FEES (PER YEAR) IN INR ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA ADMISSION PROCEDURE
 1 Osmania University Hyderabad 2,245 Candidate must have obtained a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in 10+2 (Science with Math) Admission is based on performance in a relevant conducted by the institute.
Andhra University Visakhapatnam 20,000 Candidate must have obtained a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in 10+2 (Science with Math) Admission is based on performance in a relevant conducted by the institute.
ANDHRA UNIVERSITY, COLLEGE OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Visakhapatnam 10,000 Candidate must have obtained a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in 10+2 (Science with Math) Admission is based on performance in a relevant conducted by the institute.
PUNJABI UNIVERSITY Punjab 18,444 Candidate must have obtained a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in 10+2 (Science with Math) Admission is based on performance in a relevant conducted by the institute.
B.Sc. in Astrophysics: Career Prospects

B.Sc. in Astrophysics: Career Prospects

With a significant increase in the execution of interplanetary spacecraft missions aimed at the mapping of celestial bodies like surfaces of the moon, Mars, and Venus and production of their close-up images, employment opportunities in this field have surged too. A beginner in the field of Astrophysics may be inducted as a researcher into an existing team which would be already working on a project.

Holders of Ph.D. in the subject begin their careers in post-doctoral research positions, in which they may work with experienced physicists. Orbiting observatories scrutinize star clusters, nebulae, the violent cores of galaxies and distant quasars. This work requires qualified and skilled astronomers.

About a third of the professional astronomers are directly employed by the federal government or by federally supported national observatories and laboratories.

A few industries, such as the aerospace field, hire astronomers for research- based positions. A number of consulting firms supply such professionals to the government for specific tasks.

Degree/ Diploma/ Doctorate holders in the subject can find lucrative career opportunities in major Indian establishments like the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Space Physics Laboratories, Space Applications Centers, etc. They also have the option of joining non-profit organizations such as the Association of Bangalore Amateur Astronomers (ABAA), involved in telescope making, organizing observation sessions for the public and popularization of Astrophysics.

Various government bodies and Astrophysics Institutes in India also employ astronomers in different grades of scientists.

The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), The US. Naval Observatory, Niels Bohr Institute, Space Telescope Science Institute, Nicolaus Copernicus etc. are some of the major international employers of successful graduates of the course.

Such graduates are hired in capacities such as Researcher, Observational Astronomers, Theoretical Astrophysicists, Stellar Astronomers, Solar Astronomers, Technicians, Research Assistants, among others.

Some of the popular professional avenues open to such graduates are listed below with the corresponding salaries offered for the respective positions.

Annual Salary in Astrophysics
Job Title Job Description Average Annual Salary in INR
Astrophysicists Astrophysicists utilize telescopes positioned ashore and in space to watch divine bodies and marvels. They additionally gauge radio, infrared and X-beam signals from extraterrestrial sources. In view of what they see, Astrophysicists compose hypotheses on points going from space and time to the inceptions of the universe. To test their speculations, Astrophysicists dissect and translate collected information. They introduce their discoveries at meetings or in papers for logical deductions. 80,000 - 9,00,000
Observational Astronomers Observational Astronomers usually specialize in certain types of celestial bodies or events, such as black holes. Typical duties include developing and testing scientific theories, analyzing data and writing research proposals. They also spend time composing scientific papers and presenting their findings to others in the field. 1,60,000 – 6,50,000
Stellar Astronomers Stellar Astronomers work in many specialized areas. For example, Stellar Astrophysics is simply the study of stars. Solar Astronomers study the Sun – the star nearest to the earth. Planetary Astronomers study planets and their compositions. Cosmologists study the structures and history of the universe as a whole, developing theories such as the Big Bang, Steady State and String theories. 2,59,000 - 8,50,000

Bachelor of Science [B.Sc] (Astrophysics) : 21 answered questions

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Ques. What can I do after doing an integrated M.Sc in photonics at CUSAT?

● Top Answer By Shekhar Jha on 20 Jul 21

Ans. There are two options that you can pursue after an integrated M.Sc in photonics at CUSAT. Industry Jobs - The jobs offered by the photonics industry of India are mostly sales. Yes, there are jobs in the telecommunications industry especially in the fiber optics sector which could fetch you some very good technical roles as well. Research - Photonics is one of the very interesting topics to research upon. The field offers some very good opportunities in India as well as abroad. However, very few educational institutions in India have a photonics department and they also prefer physics students when they hire their professors. So getting a teaching job may also become difficult. Anyway, if you are really interested in the subject then nothing should come between your choice because opportunities will appear over time.Read more
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Ques. How is the integrated MSc in physics at NIT Rourkela?

● Top Answer By Sriparna Banerjee on 14 Aug 23

Ans. I am well aware of the situation of NIT Rourkela Integrated MSc in Physics since my sister is a student there. She shared her horrible experience and does not recommend it to anyone at all. The faculty pool comprises underqualified professors with zero experience and will to reach. They are unapproachable and don’t pay heed to the students' doubts. The curriculum is very rigid and students are offered no flexibility in choosing their electives. Rather they are forced to choose subjects that are only relevant to experimental physics. Students are required to get the signature of the Faculty Advisor, HOD, Asst. Registrar, and Dean even for the smallest official work.  The place limits your talents and ambitions so much that all your dreams and talents will be crushed. My sister regrets wasting 5 precious years on this course and advises everyone to refrain from joining it.Read more
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Ques. What is the standard of the Integrated M.Sc. in Physics at NIT Rourkela?

● Top Answer By Ashish Kumar on 14 Aug 23

Ans. Irrespective of the branch and curse you are getting, IITs and NITs have proved their value time and again through the innumerable opportunities and qualitative education they offer. Integrated MSc in Physics is a great option for all the Physics lovers out there. Here are a few key highlights pertaining to the program Students completing this course get a number of higher studies opportunities. The faculties are very cooperative and helpful. Their recommendations are very useful in grabbing the best opportunities abroad.  The standard of academics is average and students have to resort to self-study as the professors aren’t interested in teaching.  The placement scenario is great and the table below is proof of the same: Job Offers  17 Highest CTC INR 11.40 LPA Average CTC INR 5.97 LPA Median CTC INR 5 LPA Lowest CTC  INR 3.6 LPA Some of the top recruiters that have made decent offers to Integrated MSc students in the past include TCS, Mu Sigma, Aakash Institute, iBooks, etc. The final year is meant only for the research project so students can focus o pavement preparation or higher studies.  Overall. NIT Rourkela Integrated MSc in Physics is a great choice if you are interested in Physics and want to pursue an academic or research-oriented career in the same.Read more
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Ques. How is the integrated physics MSC course at IIT Roorkee?

● Top Answer By Shruti Gupta on 12 Apr 23

Ans. Academically, the MSc Physics course at IIT Roorkee is dynamic. Some of the courses have repeated topics but for someone who is really into physics, the curriculum definitely suits his taste.  The research work conducted by the professors covers vast topics like string theory, theoretical high energy physics, quantum optics, fiber optics and lasers, nuclear physics, astrophysics, nano-materials, and condensed matter.  The lab facilities of this department are very lucrative for working with quantum optics, low-temperature superconductivity, functional materials, and lasers. The overall program lays more emphasis on experimental physics. The research enthusiasts get excellent research work in top research institutes during their summer internships which will enhance their learning experience tenfold. Students also get to visit famous places in India, Germany, the US, Australia, etc. and also publish great works. Some of the most common places include IISc, Bangalore, BARC, PRL, TIFR, IUCAA, SINP, and IIT in India whereas CERN, and Max Planck Institutes in Germany, Wisconsin, and Georgetown in the US amongst others.  Many consider the department a bit laid back with a less structured curriculum. However, real enthusiasts have been able to convert this weakness into strength by not solely relying on the curriculum but exploring much more. The Physics Journal Club and the number of papers published by students in PRD, PRL, MNRAS, CjP, etc. are a testament to that. Despite very less scope in India, IIT Roorkee has been able to carry Physics to a great extent. The program needs a little revision, only the ones who are truly Physics lovers can pursue this course.Read more
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Ques. Why choose Calcutta University for a B-Sc. in physics?

● Top Answer By Saunak Gupta on 10 Dec 20

Ans. If one has the option to secure admission into Calcutta University for B.Sc in Physics they should immediately apply for it.  As compared to other universities that are based on research institutes and teaching is secondary to them, Calcutta university is different as they put emphasis on education and keep it a top priority.  It is one of the oldest universities and has matured with time. They have the best physics teachers and labs that are available in India. The course curriculum set by the college is tough and the marking pattern set by the faculty makes it difficult to score the marks making it stringent. But this is the best thing about the University as it prepares the student for further studies and makes them well aware of the competition. More information about the college is given below in a tabular form to make things clearer and understandable as to why choose Calcutta University for B-Sc physics. Particulars Calcutta University Accredited NAAC ‘A++’ Fees 74,000 Placement Package 5 LPA Top Recruiters Google, British Council, Godrej, Tata, and Infosys The college stamp on the certificate also plays an important role in the future, therefore, if one has the opportunity to take admission to Calcutta University they should definitely join the college.Read more
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Ques. What is it like to be a student of applied geology or exploration geophysics at IIT Kharagpur?

● Top Answer By Anumita Chatterjee on 23 Mar 23

Ans. Being a student of applied geology or exploration geophysics at IIT Kharagpur is an extremely delightful opportunity for any engineering aspirant inclined toward this field. You are required to manage academics along with these activities. Career prospects: As a student of applied geology at IIT Kharagpur, you can pursue a career in both core and non-core fields. Core - Going for core jobs is beneficial. If you are interested in geology and geophysics and want to pursue a career out of it or conduct research related to this field. Non-core: This is the option for those who are just after a degree of masters and have developed additional skills like coding, data analysis, etc. To pursue non-poor jobs. This is also a good option. If you have opted for minors, or electives, in that field or have an experience in internship. Internships: Sum core companies visit the campus of IIT Kharagpur for geology placements are Schlumberger and Cairn India ltd. These companies visit the campus for internships and final placement as well. Other core companies include Baker Hughes, Shell, ONGC, OIL, CGG and other oil and energy field companies.Read more
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Ques. Which option is better, IIT Roorkee for geological technology or IIT Kharagpur for applied geology and exploration geophysics?

● Top Answer By Anumita Chatterjee on 23 Mar 23

Ans. There are many reasons why I will suggest you to go for IIT Kharagpur for applied geology and exploration geophysics. Some of these reasons include, Being an older IIT, IIT KGP has a much broader alumni base than Roorkee which in turn proves to be useful for higher education.  In case you lose interest in Core geology you are always open to sitting for non-core placements which are in abundance at IIT KGP because of the alumni network. The curriculum at IIT KGP is way better than Roorkee in the sense that it is rigorous and much more industry relevant than Roorkee. IIT KGP has good administrative support and one can get funded for conferences. Being an MSc course, you can avail INSPIRE Scholarship given that you have a good GPA. These points are more than enough of a deciding factor for you.Read more
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Ques. Which of these is better in IIT Kanpur: BSC in Chemistry/Physics, Earth Science, Biological Science or Engineering?

● Top Answer By Gaurav Goplani on 24 Apr 23

Ans. It depends on what you are interested in and what career you want to pursue. My personal suggestion would be to make IIT Delhi your first preference. First, if you are a civil services aspirant, get admission into IIT Delhi in any branch and prepare for UPSC through the various coaching institutes available. If you are somehow not able to make it into IIT Delhi, then invest another year preparing for JEE and aim for a higher rank. Once you are able to make it into IIT Kanpur, again you need to work hard for one year to get a branch change into Civil. You will be competing with geniuses from CS and ME but keep yourself motivated. A CPI of 7+ will make it possible to get a branch change. Attend your classes regularly, complete your assignments on time and you are good to go. Lastly, if you are unable to change your branch, go for pure sciences like Physics, Chemistry, BSBE, or Earth Science. Out of these Physics and chemistry have a heavy workload and it will be tough to cope with your batchmates. BSBE has pathetic placements. Another option is Earth Sciences which in my opinion is the best considering the light workload and job opportunities. The average CPI is lesser than other branches and most of its courses overlap with Civil Engineering. Basically, Earth Sciences is equivalent to Civil Engineering just without the Engineering element.Read more
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Ques. What is the scope of Integrated MSc Physics at BIT Mesra, Ranchi?

● Top Answer By Deepmoy Ganguly on 13 Apr 23

Ans. Integrated MSc Physics program at Birla Institute of Technology (BIT) Mesra, Ranchi, is a five-year integrated program that combines the undergraduate and postgraduate curriculum. The program offers a comprehensive education in physics, covering both theoretical and experimental aspects of the subject. Here are some potential career paths and opportunities for graduates of the Integrated MSc Physics program at BIT Mesra: Research and Development: Graduates from the program can pursue a career in research and development in various fields such as optics, condensed matter physics, nuclear physics, astrophysics, and materials science. They can work in research labs, government agencies, and private companies. The program provides a strong foundation in physics, which can help graduates to develop expertise in specific areas of research. Academic Careers: The Integrated MSc Physics program at BIT Mesra prepares students for an academic career in teaching and research. Graduates can pursue further studies such as a Ph.D. in Physics or related fields, which can lead to a career as a professor or researcher in universities and research institutes. Engineering and Technology: The program also provides a strong foundation in mathematics and problem-solving skills, which can be applied in various engineering and technology fields such as electronics, communication, and computer science. Graduates can work as engineers, researchers, and technologists in various industries, such as aerospace, defense, and telecommunications. Government Jobs: Graduates can also appear for government job exams, such as the Indian Engineering Services (IES) and the Indian Administrative Services (IAS), which provide opportunities to work in various government departments. Entrepreneurship: The program provides students with problem-solving skills and an entrepreneurial mindset, which can be applied in starting their ventures or joining startups in various fields such as technology, healthcare, and energy. BIT Mesra Integrated MSc Physics program provides a strong foundation in physics, mathematics, and problem-solving skills, preparing graduates for various career paths in research and development, academic careers, engineering and technology, government jobs, and entrepreneurship.Read more
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Ques. Which institute is best to study physics, IIT Kanpur or St. Stephen's or IISc?

● Top Answer By Admin on 25 Jun 24

Ans. IIT Kanpur is a better option to study physics as compared to St. Stephens or IISc. Being a student of IIT Kanpur myself I can vouch for the institution. IIT Kanpur is known for offering excellent academic standards for the students. The physics department is one of the best in the institution. IIT Kanpur has a NIRF ranking of 6th . The IIT badge is more valuable than other brand names. iIT Kanpur offers good placement opportunities to the students, with more than 90%  of students being placed. The median packages of INR 19.2 LPA . More than 250 companies like Microsoft, Fujitsu, Samsung, Reliance, and Goldman Sachs visited the IIT Kanpur campus in 2023.Read more
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