Who can I talk to for career advising?
Faculty mentors in Astronomy can provide students with detailed information about the field of study, guidance around which concentrations or coursework will help students reach educational and/or professional goals, recommendations about how to get involved in research, and more.
The CNS career advising team helps students learn about field experience opportunities (internships, co-ops, research, and more) and strategies to increase their visible value to employers well before they graduate.
Career advisors offer both remote and in-person career advising appointments. Students are encouraged to meet with them sooner rather than later, so they can help students figure out next steps and work with them to bring out their skills and experiences to demonstrate to employers.
Students can make a career advising appointment on Handshake.
What are the possibilities with an astronomy degree?
Continue to an Advanced Degree
Our department offers an extensive program in astrophysics to prepare students who want to become professional astronomers. This includes a thorough background in physics and advanced courses in astronomical observations and astrophysical theory.
Careers in the Space Sciences
Many astronomy majors go directly into positions at NASA research centers and industry. We offer a flexible program tailored to your specific interests and goals, highlighted by a strong technical preparation in research, computing, and laboratory skills.
Science Teaching and Other Careers
Astronomy incorporates elements of all the sciences, providing an excellent basis for science education, science writing, and work at museums and planetariums. The skills of scientific deduction developed in astronomy even make it an interesting alternative to preparing for medical or law school.