“What can I do in astronomy with a major in…”
Are you interested in pursuing a career in astronomy with a degree in
physics? Graduates in physics enjoy a large range of job options in a
number of different fields related to the subject of astronomy.
Academic
Non-academic
College/University: Approximately 55%
of astronomers are employed at or affiliated
with higher education institutions. A Ph.D.
is generally required, and teaching is often
a prominent, if not primary, component of
the job. Positions at such places include:
- Professor
- Research scientist
- Facilities director
National institute/lab: Public research labs
employ astronomers for satellite design,
optical work, and aerospace/aeronautics.
Additionally, publicly funded observatories
employ astronomers as staff scientists,
telescope operators, and instrumentalists.
Some examples include:
- NASA
- National Optical Astronomy
Observatory
- Naval Research Laboratory
- Space Telescope Science Institute
Museum/Planetarium: Working at a
museum or planetarium can give you
experience in public outreach and
teaching within a less formal setting.
Examples include:
- Adler Planetarium
- American Museum of Natural History
Private industry: Private aerospace
companies are growing in number as
NASA cooperates on space missions. You
could be part of program development,
rocket design, robotics, satellites, space
High school: Many high schools employ
tourism, and even asteroid mining.
dedicated physics, earth science, and in
- Space Exploration Technologies
some cases even astronomy teachers. You
(SpaceX)
will also most likely need a teaching degree - Lockheed Martin
to pursue this avenue, and many states
- Virgin Galactic
require teachers to obtain a Masters degree
within a certain number of years to
continue teaching.
For more information about careers in astronomy, visit the American Astronomical
Society’s website:
http://aas.org/learn/careers-astronomy