Masters Degree Astronomy, MS Astronomy Schools, Education, Career, Employment, and Jobs
Masters Degree Astronomy:
Astronomy is the study of heavenly bodies such as planets, stars and moons. Astronomers are scientists that study the universe using planetary sciences. Their work involves analyzing data collected by satellites, studying the composition of distant planets and stars and measuring emissions and gases in space. They also attempt to explain the occurrence of various celestial phenomena.
Masters Degree Astronomy Eligibility:
To be eligible for a master’s degree in astronomy, you need to have a Bachelors degree in astronomy, cosmology, physics, mathematics, engineering, computers or environmental science. The candidate should have a strong background in subjects such as electromagnetism, mechanics, nuclear and atomic physics, thermodynamics, statistics, differential equations, introductory astronomy and astrophysics.
Students aspiring to be astronomers must have strong problem-solving, data-analyzing, researching and communication skills.
Masters Degree Astronomy Coursework:
The MS in astronomy program is a stepping-stone for most students who wish to pursue a PhD. As a part of the course, you will be required to make astronomical observations and perform experiments in the lab. Students who complete a master in astronomy program are awarded either a Master of Science or Master of Arts degree. Some of the courses that you will have to complete while pursuing the masters’ degree in astronomy are:
1. Theoretical Astronomy
2. Galactic Evolution
3. Planetary Science
5. Evolution of Solar Systems
8. Celestial Mechanisms
9. Optical Astronomy
10. Stellar Physics
11. Stellar Distribution and Motion
12. Atomic and Molecular Study of Astronomical Phenomena
The aim of a graduate degree in astronomy is to:
1. Familiarize students with theoretical and technical aspects of astronomy
2. Introduce students to specialized subjects of astronomy
3. Give students an experience of writing and presenting papers on new research and discoveries
4. Teaching students a research oriented approach to astronomy
Chemistry, physics, biology, geology and mathematics are all an important part of astronomy. When you complete MS degree in astronomy, you will have strong research and technology related skills.
A master in astronomy degree can be either with a thesis or without. Most universities require students to complete at least 30 credits of course work together with at least one seminar and thesis.
Masters Degree Astronomy Job Prospect:
The skills acquired during the Masters in Astronomy course help astronomers find employment in a variety of fields such as science libraries, universities, museums, planetariums and many more. Graduates can start a career as scientific researchers, astronomers, medical physicists and several others. The National Aeronautics and Space Aviation (NASA) agency also employs several astronomers. Teaching is also a good career option.
Since the job market for astronomers is not particularly thriving, it is advisable to increase your chances by earning a master’s degree in astronomy. The research oriented job profiles in astronomy also require higher degree than Bachelors.
Masters Degree Astronomy Salary:
As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary of astronomers was $101,300 in 2008. Majority of astronomers earn somewhere from $62,000 to $125,000 per year. The job growth rate is estimated to be 16% between 2008 and 2018.
Masters Degree Astronomy School:
If you are interested in pursuing a masters degree in astronomy, visit the graduate degree website. At this site, you can request for free information from schools that offer astronomy graduate program. This free information does not obligate you in any way.
Follow this link and be on your way.
Masters Degree Astronomy
Masters Degree Guide