Study astronomy abroad

Astronomy is the study of the physical universe outside the Earth’s atmosphere. It includes studying celestial bodies like the moon, the sun, the planets in our solar system, and beyond.

As an astronomy student, you’ll look at things like the formation and deaths of stars, the structure of galaxies, and the evolution of the universe itself. It incorporates elements of physics and mathematics and shares common areas with other subjects like astrophysics.

Studying astronomy abroad gives you the opportunity to learn with the best and most cutting-edge equipment. Astronomy programs rely heavily on access to high-tech telescopes and monitoring systems, equipment that might not be available at universities in your home country.

Astronomy is offered at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. As an undergraduate, most bachelor’s programs are offered as joint or dual degrees where astronomy is combined with another subject like physics or mathematics.

Bachelor’s will take at least three years to complete, and will be four years if you choose to study in the USA. In some countries, like the UK, you can study an MSci (Master of Science), which means you can add an additional year which converts a bachelor’s to a master’s level degree.

At postgraduate level, doctoral degrees in astronomy are common. They can last between four and six years, and you’ll need to have a master’s level degree in a related field like physics or applied mathematics.

Astronomy can be a very hands-on program, with the use of supercomputers and telescopes a common part of any course. Some programs will also include trips to international observatories and taking part in leading research. As well as practical sessions, you’ll also take part in lectures and seminars, and conduct your own original research.

The modules and topics you study will depend on the university you choose to study at, as well as if it’s a joint program. However, some common subjects include:

• The structure of the stars
• The structure of the galaxies
• Cosmology
• Extreme astrophysics
• Extragalactic astronomy
• General relativity
• Particle physics

Getting a bachelor’s in astronomy is a great springboard to further studies like studying for a master’s or doctorate degree.

An astronomy degree will also arm you with a range of skills that will prepare you for a range of great careers, including:

• Astronomer
• Research scientist
• Meteorologist
• Aerospace engineer
• Astrophysicist
• Schoolteacher
• College professor

For some of the careers above, you will need to get additional qualifications on top of your astronomy degree. It’s worth working out exactly what you need before you apply if you know what career you want.

Talk to your university’s career services department if you need help finding the right career for you. They’ll be able to guide you through your options and support you in finding relevant placements or graduate opportunities.