“What can I do in astronomy with a major in…”
Are you interested in pursuing a career in astronomy with a degree in earth
science? Graduates in earth science 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 earth scientists for their expertise
in fields like geology and meteorology.
These positions would assist in planning
and supporting robotic and manned
missions to other planets by tracking
weather patterns and identifying landing
sites. Some examples include:
- NASA
- Space Telescope Science Institute
High school: Many high schools employ
dedicated physics, earth science, and in
some cases even astronomy teachers. You
will also most likely need a teaching degree
to pursue this avenue, and many states
require teachers to obtain a Masters degree
within a certain number of years to
continue teaching.
Private industry: Private aerospace
companies are growing in number as
NASA cooperates on space missions. You
work in support of private space missions
to land on the Moon or Mars, or even
mining asteroids.
- Space Exploration Technologies
(SpaceX)
- Lockheed Martin
- Virgin Galactic
For more information about careers in astronomy, visit the American Astronomical
Society’s website:
http://aas.org/learn/careers-astronomy