Astronomy

student setting up a telescope

Bachelor of Science, Department of Physics and Astronomy

See program requirements, course sequences and more in the Course Catalog.

Astronomers seek to understand the structure and evolution of planets, stars, galaxies, and the universe. Immediate employment opportunities for astronomy majors include public education related positions at planetariums and museums, data analyst positions in science and industry, and laboratory work.

Students also learn the fundamentals of astronomical observing, data collection, and analysis, including hands-on experience at Benedictine’s Daglen Observatory.

Program Mission

The mission of the Astronomy Program is to advance understanding of and foster curiosity about the physical universe, to enlighten students in critical thinking, to instruct students in applying the scientific method, and to enrich the College’s liberal arts curriculum. Graduates will have a strong foundation in observational and theoretical astronomy and astrophysics, which prepares them for graduate study and careers in astronomy and related fields; they also gain a strong set of analytical and technical skills that prepare them to pursue careers in a wide range of other fields.

Contact

Ryan Maderak

Dr. Ryan Maderak

Professor and Department Co-Chair of Physics and Astronomy

Georgiy Shcherbatyuk

Dr. Georgiy Shcherbatyuk

Associate Professor and Department Co-Chair of Physics and Astronomy

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Other Department Offerings

  • Astronomy minor
  • B.A. and B.S. Major in Physics
  • Minor in Physics
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics
  • Certification for Physics teaching grades 6-12