What it is
Astronomy & astrophysics is the study of the universe beyond Earth — stars, planets, galaxies, black holes, and the cosmos itself. Astrophysics applies the laws of physics to understand how celestial objects form, behave, and evolve.
What you'll study
It's essentially advanced physics applied to the universe:
- FoundationThe full physics and math sequence (mechanics, E&M, quantum, calculus)
- Astronomy coreStellar, planetary, and galactic astrophysics; cosmology
- TechniquesObservational methods, data analysis, and computational modeling
- ResearchIndependent or team research is central
Concentrations & focus areas
- Observational AstronomyTelescopes & data
- Theoretical AstrophysicsModeling the cosmos
- Planetary SciencePlanets & solar systems
- CosmologyOrigin & structure of the universe
- Computational AstrophysicsSimulation
- InstrumentationBuilding detectors
Skills you'll build
- Advanced physics & mathDeep quantitative skill
- Data analysisLarge astronomical datasets
- Computational modelingSimulation and code
- ResearchRigorous investigation
- Scientific communicationPublishing and outreach
Careers & job titles
- Astronomer / astrophysicistResearch/academia (PhD required)
- Data scientistAstronomy trains excellent data skills
- Research / national lab scientistGovernment and observatories
- Aerospace / defense rolesIndustry
- Science educator / outreachMuseums, planetariums
- Software / computational rolesTech
Job outlook & demand
Astronomy is a small, highly competitive field — research roles require a PhD and academic positions are limited. Many graduates apply their strong physics, math, and data skills in data science, tech, aerospace, and national labs, where prospects are excellent.
Pay: median, range & trajectory
Per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025), astronomers had a median of $132,920 and physicists $172,250 (both PhD-level, small occupations). Astronomy graduates who pivot to data science/tech also earn strong wages.
Degree levels it's offered at
Offered across these levels — click a level to learn about it:
A bachelor's is a rigorous physics-based degree (versatile for data/tech); a PhD is required to work as an astronomer/astrophysicist.
Is it right for you?
You might thrive here if you are captivated by the universe, excel at physics and math, and love research and data.
Honest note: academic astronomy is very competitive — plan for a PhD and a possible pivot. The good news: the data and computational skills transfer beautifully to well-paid data-science and tech careers.
Explore further
Keep exploring:
Key facts
- StudiesStars, planets, galaxies, and the cosmos
- BasisAdvanced physics + math applied to the universe
- CareersAstronomer (PhD), data scientist, research, aerospace
- RealitySmall, competitive; grad study required for research
- Pay$132,920 median astronomers (BLS)
Where to learn more
Authoritative sources for careers and pay: