B.S. Astrophysics Concentration
Students may earn a B.S. in physics with a concentration in astrophysics. This program is intended for those students who desire an emphasis on studying the physical processes of astronomical objects in the Universe. It provides a rigorous background in physics with a combination of theoretical and observational studies of planets, stars and galaxies. It is a good choice for students who wish to continue their studies in graduate astronomy programs, or who wish to work in positions at observatories, laboratories and governmental agencies. It is also an appropriate degree for science educators, and science journalists.
Here is the Advising Checklist (PDF) for this degree program. For more information, please consult our Sample Four-Year Plans, Advising page, or the Catalog.
Degree Requirements Summary
| Degree Requirement | Units |
|---|---|
| General Education (48 Units, 9 in the Major) | 39 |
| Major Requirements | 72 |
| University Electives | 9 |
| Total units needed for graduation | 120 |
Major Physics Core Requirements: 30 Units
- PHYS 114 - Introduction to Physics I Unit(s): 4
- PHYS 116 - Introductory Laboratory Experience Unit(s): 1
- PHYS 214 - Introduction to Physics II Unit(s): 4
- PHYS 216 - Introductory Laboratory Unit(s): 1
- PHYS 314 - Introduction to Physics III Unit(s): 4
- PHYS 325 - Introduction To Mathematical Physics Unit(s): 3
- PHYS 340 - Light and Optics Unit(s): 3
- PHYS 381 - Computer Applications for Scientists Unit(s): 2
- PHYS 430 - Electricity and Magnetism Unit(s): 3
- PHYS 450 - Statistical Physics Unit(s): 2
- PHYS 460 - Quantum Physics Unit(s): 3
Astrophysics Concentration Requirements: 8 Units
- ASTR 100 - Descriptive Astronomy Unit(s): 3 OR ASTR 150 - Astronomy for Scientists Unit(s): 3
- ASTR 331 - Astronomical Imaging Unit(s): 2
- ASTR 380 - Astrophysics: Stars Unit(s): 3
Required Supporting Courses: 21 Units
- CHEM 115A - General Chemistry I Unit(s): 5
- MATH 161 - Differential and Integral Calculus I Unit(s): 4
- MATH 211 - Differential and Integral Calculus II Unit(s): 4
- MATH 241 - Linear Algebra with Applications in Differential Equations Unit(s): 4
- MATH 261 - Multivariable Calculus Unit(s): 4
Capstone Requirement: 3 Units
(Complete PHYS 491 AND (ASTR 492 OR ASTR 497))
- PHYS 491 - Capstone Preparatory Seminar Unit(s): 1. Required!
- ASTR 492 - Instructional Design Project Unit(s): 2
- ASTR 497 - Undergraduate Research in Astronomy Unit(s): 2
Physics Electives: 10 Units
To complete the 72 units required for the major, students must choose the remaining units from other upper division physics or astronomy courses. All Upper division Astronomy courses are allowed as electives for the BS-Physics Astrophysics Concentration. ASTR 396 & PHYS 396 are selected topics courses, which will only apply if approved by an advisor. Astronomy courses may not double count towards the Physics Major and the Astronomy Minor. PHYS 494 can be taken three times for a maximum of three units.
Units
Total Units in the Major: 72 Units