Online Astronomy Degrees

Star-Gazing and Telescopes: Not Just For Kids Anymore

Do you find yourself gazing up at the sky, wondering what kinds of mystery lie behind it? If so, then you might want to consider training to be an astronomer. Astronomers use the principles of physics and mathematics to explore the celestial nature of the universe, including the sun, moon, planets, stars, and galaxies. They apply this scientific knowledge to problems in navigation, space flight, and satellite communications and develop the instrumentation used to observe and collect astronomical data. So if Nicholas Copernicus, Galileo, and Edward Barnard are your heroes, you might want to check out how programs in astronomy can help you shoot for the stars and reach them.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports 92.3% of employed astronomers held a bachelor's degree or higher, but with slower than average job growth expected through 2014, you can bet job competition is going to be fierce in the field. To propel yourself above other applicants, make sure you have the highest degree possible and proper training. A bachelor's degree in either physics or astronomy is preferred, followed by a PhD in astronomy. BLS reports, "With fewer than 40 doctoral programs in astronomy, applicants face considerable competition for available slots." Prospective astronomers go on to focus their careers on postdoctoral research or teach in astronomy programs at the college or university level. But with an annual average of $97,320 a year in May 2004, training in black holes and planetary exploration doesn't sound that bad, does it?