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Astronomy


Astronomy is the study of the Universe beyond the Earth’s atmosphere.

Overview

Astronomy is the study of the Universe beyond the Earth’s atmosphere.

It explores the physics, chemistry, and evolution of objects like moons, planets, stars, nebulae, and galaxies, as well as features like supernovae explosions and cosmic background radiation.

Only available as a minor.

At a Glance

Degree options
Minor only

Curriculum

At ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Allison, astronomy courses include daytime lab periods and a number of nighttime observing periods at the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Allison Gemini Observatory (MAGO).

Astronomy courses include such topics as:

  • solar system astronomy
  • stars, galaxies and the Universe
  • astrophysics
  • life in the Universe

In addition to formal astronomy courses, the Physics department offers a number of advanced courses relevant to those planning a career in astrophysics, including modern optics, classical mechanics, relativity, and signal processing.

A minor in Astronomy combines astronomy-related courses in physics with complementary courses in a number of other disciplines, including biology, chemistry, environmental science, philosophy, computer science, and mathematics.

Astronomy is available as a minor only.

Not sure about the difference between a major, a minor, an honours, and a certificate?

ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Allison Gemini Observatory

Related programs:

Careers

Whether you're entering the job market or continuing your education, your ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Allison degree will stand out.

ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Allison has been recognized by Maclean's as the top primarily undergraduate university in Canada more times than any other university.

With experiential learning and career development opportunities available in every degree, you'll also graduate with hands-on learning and real-world experience.

Our graduates also boast extraordinarily high acceptance rates to top graduate programs and professional schools such as law and medicine.

Popular career paths in astronomy include:

  • aerospace engineer
  • meteorologist
  • astronaut
  • atmospheric physicist
  • astrophysicist
  • computer systems analyst
  • mining/geological engineer
  • forensic engineer
  • telescope structures/optics specialist

Testimonials

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The thing I loved most about the Astronomy program at ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Allison is the hands-on experience it gives you. Whether it be in a class-based lab, or through a summer research position, you are given a chance to do hands-on astronomy at a high level.


Ian
Roberts
'14
Honours Physics, minors in Astronomy and Mathemtics
Port Williams, NS

Extras

ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Allison Gemini Observatory

The ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Allison Gemini Observatory (MAGO) is a dual-dome astronomical observatory housing two identical 11" Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes.

It is used extensively by the Physics department for hands-on astronomy classes, as well as being open to the public for special viewing nights and activities.

Some of the celestial objects viewed through our telescopes include planets and moons of our solar system, nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies.

/current-students/department-physics

Bachelor of Science

Admission Requirements

Our admissions decisions are based on your academic record, leadership skills, a high level of commitment, and the potential for personal growth. The drop down menus below will help you find information on what pre-requisites are recommended for a Bachelor of Science; however, a minor is Astronomy can be combined with any degree.

Academic Awards

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ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ A is #2 in student awards


²Ñ²¹³¦±ô±ð²¹²Ô’s ranks ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Allison second in student and faculty awards in its latest University Rankings. To date, 56 ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Allison students have become Rhodes Scholars — one of the best per capita records in Canada.

Next Steps

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