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Astronomy

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

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What is Astronomy?

Astronomy is the study of physics, chemistry, and the evolution of the universe. In this major, you’ll study stars, planets, moons, comets, nebulae and galaxies. You'll determine the positions and motions of these phenomena. You’ll gain analytical skills and learn to draw conclusions from data. You’ll also learn how to apply physics concepts to understanding the universe. Our department also provides many opportunities for involvement in faculty research projects.

Career Options

  • Aerospace
  • Government research
  • Higher education
  • Laboratory science
  • Observatory science
  • Planetarium work
  • Museum work

Post-Graduation Success1

86% employed or continuing education

30% employed after graduation

56% attending graduate school

$63,007 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: Epic (2), Sigray (2), Juristat (2) View All

Sample grad school destinations: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Chicago, University of California, Santa Barbara View All

Program Resources

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences Program Webpage Degree Requirements

Review Criteria

First-Year Major-Specific Criteria

  • Calculus preferred (if available at high school)
  • Demonstrated understanding of and interest in the major

View All Review Criteria

Transfer Criteria

Transfer Handbook

Graduation & Retention2

4.5 years to degree

91% first-year retention rate

67% four-year graduation rate

79% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs3

Illinois Resident

  • Tuition: $12,992
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $18,884
  • Total: $36,930

Non-Resident

  • Tuition: $33,344
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses:$19,224
  • Total: $57,622

International

  • Tuition: $35,872
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $19,224
  • Total: $60,150

Related Majors

1 Post-graduate data was collected through the Illini Success initiative, which primarily relies on self-reported survey data sources. Statistics are aggregated from the past three years. Please note that total compensation may be greater than annual salary as other forms of compensation (e.g., signing bonus, commission, benefits) are not included. For more information on Illini Success data and methods, please visit the Illini Success website. For average wage or salary information five years after entry into an occupation, visit the Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes Explorer.

2 Graduation and retention data comes from several majors within a similar interest area. Data may not yet be available for newly created programs. Years-to-degree data is only available for programs from which you can earn a degree. Retention and graduation rates are only available for programs that you can apply directly into. Retention rates reflect retention to the university, not necessarily retention within the major.

3 "Expenses" are estimated and include books, supplies, housing, and other living expenses. The exact amount you’ll pay depends on where you decide to live, the meal plan you choose, and your overall lifestyle. To learn more about costs, please visit the Office of Student Financial Aid website. To learn the average monthly student loan payment over a period of 20 years based on estimated cost, visit the Illinois College2Career website.

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