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Master of Arts in Astronomy

Wesleyan offers one of the country’s only stand-alone Master of Arts programs in astronomy. Designed for flexibility and merging coursework with research, the MA prepares graduates for PhD programs, careers in data science, education, public outreach, and more.

The Astronomy MA program blends coursework with research opportunities, providing students access to state-of-the-art instrumentation and computers to investigate areas of current astronomical interest. Primary research activities in the Astronomy department include mapping the local interstellar medium, probing the atmospheres of extrasolar planets, observations of young stars and circumstellar disks, investigations of x-ray binary star systems, and studies of the massive black holes that reside at the centers of galaxies.

Program Requirements

All degree-seeking graduate students are required to register for at least one credit per semester that they are enrolled. Additional MA requirements include:

  • 10 credits of coursework in astronomy and related subjects (not including seminars)
  • Successful completion of a qualifying exam featuring a written and oral component to demonstrate a broad understanding of astronomy, fundamental physics, and mathematics before the last year of study
  • The written completion and successful defense of a research project in collaboration with a faculty member

In addition to the curriculum, all MA students are required to participate in the department’s seminars on research and pedagogy in astronomy, which are offered each semester.

MA Requirements

At a Glance

Degree

Master of Arts

Duration

Full Time

Number of Credits

14

Format

On Campus

Sample Course Schedule

Create a personalized curriculum that best meets your academic needs and intellectual pursuits. Courses progress throughout each semester to refine your technical skills and research capabilities and prepare you to achieve your post-graduation goals.

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

Teaching Assistant Opportunities

As a teaching assistant, you'll sharpen your skills and build strong connections with astronomy faculty and peers. A key requirement for MA students each semester, this role offers hands-on experience in grading assignments, leading office hours, supporting classroom activities, and facilitating exciting nighttime events at the Van Vleck Observatory—creating valuable opportunities for collaboration, growth, and networking.

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.

Explore Career Paths

Gordon Career Center

As a teaching assistant, you'll sharpen your skills and build strong connections with astronomy faculty and peers. A key requirement for MA students each semester, this role offers hands-on experience in grading assignments, leading office hours, supporting classroom activities, and facilitating exciting nighttime events at the Van Vleck Observatory—creating valuable opportunities for collaboration, growth, and networking.

Kristen Luchsinger ’17, Research Affiliate, SETI Institute