BA/MA in Astronomy
In addition to the two-year Master of Arts in Astronomy, the Astronomy Department offers a five-year combined BA/MA program for Wesleyan students. Science majors can enrich their course and research background while saving on tuition costs and potential cost-of-living expenses with financial aid.
Program Requirements
Students are advised to begin research by their junior year if they intend to pursue the BA/MA and must show proficiency at the equivalent of the BA in Astronomy. Competitive admission is based on GPA, faculty recommendations, and research experience.
Accepted students enroll for an additional, tuition-free year to complete their MA in Astronomy requirements. Students must complete the required six credits in their final year:
- Two for thesis research
- Two associated with the advanced astronomy courses (if not already taken)
- Two in another subject of your choosing
Occasionally, it is possible to transfer credits from the BA degree that were not used to fulfill a graduation requirement. BA/MA students do not need to take the qualifying exam if they've successfully completed ASTR155. BA/MA students are not required to work as teaching assistants, but they may apply for teaching assistant opportunities if available in a given semester.
At a Glance
Degree
Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts
Duration
Full Time (5 years)
Number of Credits
32 BA and 14 MA
Format
On Campus
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.
Study Abroad
Join the diverse, global astronomical community conducting research in international destinations like Denmark, the Netherlands, and more.
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.
Career Opportunities
Many graduates pursue advanced degrees and groundbreaking research, work on global observatory projects, pursue technical careers, or share their passion through education and public outreach. Others thrive in filmmaking, medical imaging, journalism, and more, building versatile, real-world skills in analytical thinking, technical expertise, creative problem-solving, and effective communication through interdisciplinary education.
Planetary Science
Wesleyan’s minor and MA concentration in planetary science bring together geology, astronomy, physics, chemistry, and biology to examine how planets form, evolve, and sustain potential for life. Students investigate the history of our solar system alongside emerging discoveries from across the galaxy.
