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Computer Science and Astronomy

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

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What is Computer Science and Astronomy?

As a Computer Science and Astronomy student, you’ll study space, time, and the origins of life in our universe. You’ll use supercomputers, work with computer models of black holes and galaxy clusters, and mine large datasets. Upon graduation, you’ll apply the knowledge you gain to challenges like:

  • Astronomical data processing
  • Analysis of large optical image data sets
  • Dynamical and statistical simulation of astronomical systems

You’ll study, analyze, and test the boundaries of our current hardware and software to make new advances in our technology and our universe. If you like galaxies, black holes, the lives and deaths of stars, and planets, this major may be right for you.

Career Options

  • Aerospace
  • Data science
  • Education
  • Museum work
  • Programming
  • Public service
  • Research

Post-Graduation Success1

96% employed or continuing education

70% employed after graduation

26% attending graduate school

$108,042 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: Microsoft (4), Microsoft (3), Amazon (3) View All

Sample grad school destinations: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of California, Los Angeles, University of Washington-Seattle 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)
  • Interest in Astronomy in addition to Computer Science

View All Review Criteria

Transfer Criteria

Transfer Handbook

Graduation & Retention2

3.7 years to degree

97% first-year retention rate

81% four-year graduation rate

88% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs3

Illinois Resident

  • Tuition: $18,372
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $18,884
  • Total: $42,310

Non-Resident

  • Tuition: $41,444
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses:$19,224
  • Total: $65,722

International

  • Tuition: $44,688
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $19,224
  • Total: $68,966

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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