Astrophysics BS

The requirements for the Bachelor of Science in astrophysics include a core of introductory, intermediate, and advanced courses in physics and astronomy and the completion of upper level electives in physics and astronomy and a research project as an independent study. Several related courses in mathematics and computer science are also taken in preparation for the various core courses. All courses that fulfill requirements in the major must have grades of "C" or better.

Upon completion of this program a student is able to:

1. Demonstrate understanding of the conservation rules that govern the universe and how those rules are applied to the various disciplines within physics and astronomy.
2. Use mathematical reasoning to apply the laws of physics to a range of astrophysical situations and identify the assumptions made in obtaining a solution.
3. Propose an independent research project to explore a testable question and carry out the observations or numerical simulations to determine the answer to that question.
4. Demonstrate familiarity with the physics and astronomy literature and write up the results of their independent research in the form of a journal article.