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  • Astronomy, Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science

    Astronomy provides knowledge of basic concepts, theories and observational findings concerning the structure and evolution of planetary systems, stars, stellar systems such as galaxies, and cosmology. Students will learn scientific methodology and its application in specific contexts, the use of observations in testing hypotheses and the limitations of astronomical observations as well as how to critically evaluate them.

    The Bachelor of Arts in physics enables students to become familiar with modern physics and to understand mathematics, including calculus. The Bachelor of Science enables students to understand the basic concepts, theories and experimental findings in modern physics, electricity and magnetism, and mechanics as they apply to astronomy and astrophysics.


    Astronomy major page

    Before Graduating Students Must

    • Demonstrate satisfactory (minimum grades of C) performance on a selection of coursework from each of the 4000-level astronomy courses as graded by a faculty committee independent of the instructor and not as part of the course grade.
    • Complete requirements for the baccalaureate degree, as determined by faculty.

    Students in the Major will Learn to

    Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)

    1. Bachelor of Arts
      Identify, describe and define the fundamentals of astronomy, including the basic concepts, theories and observational results for planetary systems, stars, stellar systems and cosmology.
      Bachelor of Science
      Identify, describe and define the fundamentals of astrophysics, including mechanics, electromagnetism, modern physics and the basic concepts, theories and observational results for planetary systems, stars, stellar systems and cosmology.
    2. Define and use the techniques of astronomical observation.
    3. Critically evaluate results of astronomical research.
    4. Effectively and clearly communicate ideas and results in speech and in writing in an accepted style of presentation.
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    Curriculum Map

    I = Introduced; R = Reinforced; A = Assessed
    Courses: B.A. and B.S. Content Critical Thinking Communication

    SLO 1 SLO 2 SLO 3 SLO 4
    AST 3018 I   I I
    AST 3019 I   I I
    AST 3722C I, R I, A R R
    AST 4211 R, A   R R
    AST 4402 R, A   R R
    AST 4723C R, A R, A R R
    AST 4930
    Planetary System Astrophysics
    R, A   R R
    AST 4930
    Senior Seminar
     
    A A
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    Assessment Types for Both Degrees

    • Exams
    • Portfolios
    • Papers
    • Oral presentations
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alc: astronomy