The full moon over Alma Mater
Image Credit: University of Illinois - Fred Zwicky

The LAS major in Astronomy is a flexible program for students who are fascinated by the cosmos and plan to pursue technical or professional careers in areas requiring a solid grounding in physical science and mathematics. It is based upon both a broad and an in-depth exploration into astronomy and allied disciplines, and is an excellent way to gain a general science education. It may be chosen by students who wish to pursue astronomy research or to gain an astronomy background for use in related fields, such as working in national laboratories, observatories, planetariums, NASA, aerospace, technology, journalism, or science writing, to name a few.

Students seeking a program that combines advanced training in both astronomy and physics should also consider the Astrophysics major.

Students who plan to pursue careers in astronomy or related technical fields that attach importance to a sound grounding in computer science or data science should also consider the Computer Science + Astronomy or Astronomy + Data Science majors.