Bachelor of Science [B.S] [Astronomy] From University of Massachusetts

Astronomers study these objects not only by observing them with telescopes and other instruments, but also with mathematical and computer models. Astronomers therefore make heavy use of physics, mathematics, and computer science.
Equipment used ranges from radio telescopes half a mile across and high-speed computers to optical telescopes so big a truck could park on the mirror. The discipline ranges over many areas: radio astronomy; study of stars; their structure and evolution; origin of the universe and other astronomical systems; and the atmospheres and surfaces of planets.

Career Opportunities

Students receiving a degree in astronomy follow three primary career paths: 1) Graduate school and a professional degree. After completing an advanced degree, many astronomers are employed by universities as researchers and teachers. Professional positons are also available at national observatories, NASA, and in the aerospace industry in such companies as Lockheed, Boeing, and Grumman. 2) Astronomy-related mission support. With an undergraduate degree, positions are available at research centers supporting many major astronomical and aerospace projects, including the Space Telescope Science Institute, Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, and MIT Lincoln Laboratories. Support positions at national observatories and astronomy-related industries are also available. 3) Teaching and public outreach. Combined with preparation through the School of Education, teaching positions in middle- and secondary-school science are available. Astronomy majors have also gone on to work in museums and planetariums.