Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University observatory complex

Bachelor of Science in
Astronomy and Astrophysics

The B.S. in Astronomy and Astrophysics prepares graduates with a solid base in math and physics to prepare students for a broad range of scientific careers.

About the Bachelor of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics

At Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University, students in the Bachelor of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics program use a combination of physics and astronomy classroom courses, along with hands-on laboratory experiences, to understand and explore the universe.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects a 5% increase in physics and astronomy jobs between 2022 and 2032, and many students choose to continue to higher education, pursuing both their master’s and Ph.D. before entering the workforce. Embry‑Riddle offers students significant advantages, including connections to research experiences such as the Hubble Space Telescope, the Kepler Mission, the Transiting Earth Survey Satellite and the James Webb Space Telescope.

Student Learning Outcomes

Learning opportunities you will have while earning an astrophysics degree:

  • Ability to apply astronomy models to real systems
  • Communicate astronomical results to astronomers and non-astronomers
  • Operate astronomical telescopes and detectors to obtain scientific data
  • Develop and test physical models of astronomical systems

Astronomy and Astrophysics Career Opportunities

Careers and Employers

Embry-Riddle astrophysics degree graduates often pursue graduate-level education in the field or find entry-level careers at Northrop Grumman, the Department of Energy, the U.S. Navy and Omitron, Inc.

Students earning an astronomy degree often pursue careers as:

  • Data Engineers
  • Software Engineers
  • Data Scientists

Astronomy and Astrophysics Salary Information

A degree from Embry-Riddle provides the opportunity for competitive salaries, averaging $83,000 as of 2023.

DETAILS

About Astronomy and Astrophysics at the Daytona Beach, FL Campus

The B.S. in Astronomy and Astrophysics at the Daytona Beach Campus has a strong fundamental basis in mathematics and physics. Housed in the Department of Physical Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences, the program is a member of the Southeastern Association for Research in Astronomy (SARA), granting students almost continuous telescope access to nearly 90% of the sky.

The department’s space exploration observatory facilities include an instrumented 1-meter telescope (the largest university research telescope in the southeastern U.S.). Astronomy and Astrophysics students have access to dynamic labs on campus, including the Laboratory for Exosphere and Near Space Environment Studies (LENSES).

Astronomy and Astrophysics Information

  • Credits: 120
  • Online or In-Person: In-Person

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Summary

120 Credits

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