Explore the cosmos, decode universal laws, analyze diverse physical systems, and use mathematics to discern underlying assumptions. Develop astronomical mastery through the development of expertise in astronomy, planning observations, and interpreting results. Prepare for success in graduate studies or a career in astrophysics.
School/Division
College of Liberal Arts & Sciences
Campus Locations
Main Campus - Alfred, NY
Major
Astrophysics (BS)
Double Major
Double Major option(s) offered.
All students at Alfred University have a unique opportunity to view firsthand the beauty and wonder of the nighttime sky. The Stull observatory at Alfred University houses one of the larger optical telescopes in NY state, the .82 meter Austin-Fellows Telescope. We also have a remotely operable 16-inch DFM telescope, a 9-inch refractor, and 16-inch and 20-inch Newtonian telescopes as well as a small radio telescope.
Gain valuable experience and build your resume right here on campus by joining in activities and organizations like the Astronomy Club, Mechanical Warriors, and the AU Math Club.
Complete courses in Computer Science, Mathematical Methods, Computational Physics, three theoretical courses and an advanced laboratory course in astronomy, and a capstone course in the form of an independent research project.
You have a unique opportunity to view the beauty and wonder of the nighttime sky. The Stull Observatory at Alfred University houses one of the larger optical telescopes in NY state.
Courses for the Astrophysics major are listed in our digital Undergraduate Catalog.
Astrophysics as a double major is available to any AU student. Courses for the Astrophysics double major are listed in our digital Undergraduate Catalog.Learn More About Double Majors
In addition to fulfilling the requirements of the Astrophysics major, as well as the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences general education requirements, you'll be required to complete the College's First Year Experience Program or Transfer Student Program.
Unsure how studying Astrophysics could help your job prospects? Monthly, even weekly, commercial spaceflights continue to become more and more common, privatized space travel experiences for civilians have already begun to take off, the retirement of the ISS ushering in a new era in space inhabitance is on the horizon, NASA's Space Launch System is making preparations for its first manned trip around the moon in 2024 (its second mission to the moon in as many years), and we're reaching further and further into the cosmos with advances in space imaging and telescopy.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Overall employment of physicists and astronomers is projected to grow 5 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. About 1,500 openings for physicists and astronomers are projected each year, on average, over the decade."
Considering majoring in the Physics BS but like the idea of having more career options after graduation? You should consider the Physics BA, adding a second major or minoring in a related program.
