Undergraduate Program in Astrophysics

Information on all the Physics and Astronomy undergraduate programs.

Bachelor of Science in Astrophysics: Astrophysics is the application of physics to the cosmos. Students in this field explore questions concerning the nature, workings, origin, and evolution of the universe. Marketable skills acquired by our majors include analytical thinking, problem-solving techniques, a fundamental understandingof the universe, a strong foundation in mathematics, and a familiarity with technical scientific equipment and computing.
 
Preparation for the Major in Astrophysics:
 
Required courses:
 
  • Physics 1A or 1AH, 1B or 1BH, 1C or 1CH, 4AL, 4BL, 17, 32
  • Astronomy 81
  • Math 31A, 31B, 32A, 32B, 33A, 33B
  • Program In Computing 10A OR Computer Science 30 OR 31
(Total: 60 units)
 
Recommended courses: Astronomy 3, Chemistry 20A.
         
The Major in Astrophysics
 
Required courses: 
  • Physics 105A, 105B, 110A, 110B, 115A, 115B, 115C
  • Astronomy 115, 117, 127, 180
  • Three additional upper division electives selected from Astronomy 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146; Physics 108, M122, 124, 126, 127, 128, 132, C170M; EPSS 155, 156, C179. At least one of the three electives must be in Astronomy.
(Total: 56 units)
 
No course intended to satisfy a requirement for the pre-major or major may be taken on a Pass/No Pass basis.  A 2.0 average overall is required in all the above courses for completion of the degree.
 
Please see the College of Letters & Science Counseling Unit (A-316 Murphy Hall) for information regarding GEs, Upper Division units and all other university requirements. For all questions regarding the Astrophysics major or Physics and Astronomy Departmental questions, contact Amanda Glover, Undergraduate Advisor, 1-707D PAB, 424-259-5064, or Mary Tran, Lead Undergraduate Advisor, PAB 1-707A, 310-206-1447.