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Astrophysics

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

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What is Astrophysics?

Modern astronomy is astrophysics. It is the study of how the universe works by applying the methods and principles of physics. Astrophysicists study some of the biggest questions known today, from stars and planets to black holes and dark energy. Leveraging the strengths of our astronomy and physics departments, this program offers you one of the most flexible astrophysics options in the country. We'll provide you with the rigorous preparation necessary for graduate study in astronomy and astrophysics. We'll also prepare you for employment in technical or scientific fields.

Career Options

  • Astronomer
  • Physicist
  • Consulting
  • Data analysis
  • Education
  • Scientific research

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

Non-Resident

  • Tuition: $38,724
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses:$19,224
  • Total: $63,002

International

  • Tuition: $41,252
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $19,224
  • Total: $65,530

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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