The Bachelor of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics provides a strong foundation in astronomy and physics, preparing you for a wide range of careers in space science. Through a combination of theoretical coursework and hands-on laboratory experiences, you will develop the skills needed to explore and analyze the universe effectively.
As an Embry-Riddle student, you will also benefit from connections to prestigious research initiatives, including the Hubble Space Telescope, the Kepler Mission, the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), and the James Webb Space Telescope. These opportunities offer invaluable, real-world research experience that enhances your academic journey.
At the Daytona Beach Campus, the Bachelor of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics builds students' foundation in mathematics and physics while providing opportunities to establish themselves in the field. Housed in the Department of Physical Sciences within the College of Arts & Sciences, students have the opportunity to engage with the Southeastern Association for Research in Astronomy (SARA). This collaboration provides students with nearly constant access to telescopes that can observe about 90% of the night sky.
In this program, students will work in advanced facilities, including a one-meter telescope, the largest research telescope at a university in the southeastern U.S. Students will also have access to state-of-the-art labs, such as the Laboratory for Exosphere and Near Space Environment Studies (LENSES). The resources available in this program ensure students are well-prepared for careers or further education in fields like space exploration and planetary science.
Program-Level Student Learning Outcomes
Students will:
Communicate astronomical results to astronomers and non-astronomers using varied methods including giving talks, writing technical reports, and writing papers for publication.
Describe the current state of knowledge regarding the astronomical and physical universe.
Make professional and ethical decisions.
Apply data derived from conducted experiments and prevailing models in astronomy to real systems using current techniques.
Apply mathematics, science, and contemporary issues to solve scientific problems.
Operate astronomical telescopes and detectors to obtain scientific data on astronomical objects.
Daytona Beach Program Requirements
General Education Requirements
38
Core Requirements
70
Technical Electives
6
Open Electives
6
Total Credits
120
Program Details
The Bachelor of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics degree program requires 120 credit hours. The program may be completed in eight semesters, or four years, assuming appropriate background and full-time enrollment. The courses necessary to earn this degree are listed below.
A minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 is needed for all required ASTR, CHEM, ENGP, and PHYS courses, including technical electives. A grade of C or better is required in MATH 241/242/243 and PHYS 226/227/228 as a prerequisite for entry into all subsequent ASTR, PHYS, and ENGP courses. Additionally, BSAA students must attain an average GPA of 2.3 or higher in three fundamental physics courses (PHYS 226/227/228) prior to PHYS 303. Failure to satisfy the above requirements will prevent the student from continuing in the program.
