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Department of Astronomy

Astronomy Major

Astronomy majors at Wesleyan explore the universe through observation, research, and discovery. You’ll gain hands-on experience investigating celestial phenomena, analyzing data, and contributing to new insights about space and the nature of the universe.

The Major in Astronomy enables students to explore the foundational concepts and recent discoveries that have shaped the modern study of celestial objects, space, the phenomena of the cosmos, and the universe. Students develop advanced proficiency with the theoretical concepts and observational tools employed in distinct subfields of astrophysics.

The Astronomy program attracts students who have a passionate interest and curiosity about space, celestial objects, and the universe, along with an aptitude for mathematics and physics, the ability to work with complex data and technology, and the patience for long-term research projects.  

Astronomy graduates may continue their studies in a graduate program or pursue a variety of careers in fields such as astronomy, astrophysics, data science, planetary science, aerospace engineering, space missions, science communications, education, and public outreach.

Major Requirements

At a Glance

Course Catalog

Degree

Bachelor of Arts

Duration

Full Time

Number of Credits

32

Format

On Campus

Course Catalog

Sample Course Schedule

Wesmaps

Students start with foundational physics and astronomy courses and early exposure to research, gradually refining their skills with advanced astrophysics, computational methods, and independent research. Majors are also encouraged to work as teaching apprentices and participate in outreach events.

Wesmaps

Opportunities and Resources

Research

Astronomy research at Wesleyan is your chance to go beyond the classroom and become part of real-world discovery. You'll collaborate closely with faculty mentors, design your own projects, and directly contribute to groundbreaking work.

Explore Research

Study Abroad

Join the diverse, global astronomical community conducting research in international destinations like Denmark, the Netherlands, and more.

Study Abroad

Capstone and Honors

Your senior year is a chance to take everything you've learned and make an original contribution to the field with your senior capstone. You have the freedom to shape your required capstone; opportunities include:

  • Completion of a senior thesis project
  • Non-thesis related astronomy research
  • In-depth investigation of a current research topic

A thesis is required to be eligible for honors in the major.

Capstone and Honors

Career Outcomes for Astronomy Majors

A degree in Astronomy from Wesleyan opens doors to a wide range of career paths, both within and beyond the sciences. Our graduates pursue advanced degrees in astrophysics, planetary science, and related fields, work at major observatories, contribute to space exploration efforts, teach future generations, and lead in fields as diverse as software engineering, science communication, and quantitative finance.

The personal attention and hands-on experience I received at Wesleyan shaped not just my career path, but my whole approach to scientific research and education.

Jess Werk ’03, Professor and Chair of Astronomy, University of Washington

Additional Programs

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