Astronomy
Bachelor of Science, Department of Physics and Astronomy
See program requirements, course sequences and more in the Course Catalog.
Program Mission
The mission of the Astronomy Program is to advance understanding of and foster curiosity about the physical universe, to enlighten students in critical thinking, to instruct students in applying the scientific method, and to enrich the College’s liberal arts curriculum. Graduates will have a strong foundation in observational and theoretical astronomy and astrophysics, which prepares them for graduate study and careers in astronomy and related fields; they also gain a strong set of analytical and technical skills that prepare them to pursue careers in a wide range of other fields.
Degree Overview
The major course work provides an overview of the entire field of astronomy, more detailed work in specific areas of astronomical importance, and the solid background in physics and mathematics that is needed to pursue graduate study.
Students may participate in ongoing research projects in both observational astronomy or theoretical astrophysics using facilities at the college. Currently, work is being done in stellar astronomy and includes work on pulsating stars, star clusters, and nearby galaxies.
Contact
Dr. Ryan Maderak
Associate Professor
Department Chair
Contact by Email
913.360.7527
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Other Department Offerings
- Astronomy minor
- B.A. and B.S. Major in Physics
- Minor in Physics
- Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics
- Certification for Physics teaching grades 6-12