Physics: Astronomy Degree

Turn stargazing into scientific discovery with a degree in astronomy from Kutztown University.

Quick Look

OFFERED AS:

Major

FORMAT:

In-Person

CREDITS REQUIRED:

120

Tuition Costs

Are you ready to explore the universe and search for new planets? Kutztown University’s Bachelor of Science in Physics: Astronomy degree offers you hands-on opportunities to make real discoveries. Our advanced technology and comprehensive curriculum prepare you for graduate school, groundbreaking research, and innovative careers in astronomy. With Kutztown's degree in astronomy, you can reach for the stars and beyond.

Why Choose Kutztown for an Astronomy Degree

Choosing to major in astronomy at Kutztown University means launching your future in a place built for discovery. Our state-of-the-art scientific facilities, specialized labs, and on-campus observatory and planetarium provide you with professional experience exploring the universe right from campus. This opportunity prepares you to excel in graduate school, research, and beyond.

Here’s why students choose Kutztown for their astronomy degree:

Innovative physics and astronomy labs
Affordable tuition and scholarship opportunities
Mentorship from experienced professors
Welcoming, supportive campus community

Astronomy Degree Highlights

Kutztown University’s astronomy major places you at the center of exploration in every course. You won’t just study the universe from a textbook; you’ll gain real experience using advanced tools, working alongside faculty, and preparing for an exciting career. From the first class to the final project of our degree in astronomy, you will build the skills needed for graduate school or a thrilling career.

Program Highlights:

Use the Chambliss Observatory to study stars, planets, and galaxies
Conduct hands-on experiments in physics and astronomy labs
Collaborate with faculty on research projects that can lead to professional publications and presentations
Study NASA mission data and help search for new exoplanets
Present your research at conferences across the country and beyond
Experience outer space in the planetarium
Learn data, coding, and critical thinking skills you can use in many careers

What You Learn as an Astronomy Major

Students in the astronomy major focus on foundational knowledge of astronomy, physics, and engineering. Kutztown’s supportive faculty mentor students as they enhance their analytical, problem-solving, research, and scientific communication skills.

Student Learning Outcomes

Physics (BS)
1. Upon completion of the B.S. Physics program, students will be able to demonstrate fundamental knowledge in core areas of physics.
2. Upon completion of the B.S. Physics program, students will be able to demonstrate experimental and computational skills required of a physicist in higher education or industry.
3. Upon completion of the B.S. Physics program, students will be able to demonstrate effective scientific communication through oral, written, and visual mechanisms.
4. Upon the completion of the B.S. Physics program, students will be able to demonstrate analytical and problem-solving skills.

Career Outcomes

Top Internships for Astronomy Students
NASA (Goddard Space Flight Center)
NASA (Kennedy Space Center)
University of Southern Queensland in Australia
University of Salerno in Italy
NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) at Caltech
Rutgers University

Top Graduate Schools and Employers
Purdue University
Georgia State University
Louisiana State University
Case Western Reserve University
Clemson University
Lehigh University
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Lincoln Lab
NASA (Goddard Space Flight Center)

Astronomy Degree Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do with a major in astronomy?
An astronomy degree from Kutztown University opens doors to a universe of opportunities. The analytical, problem-solving, and data skills you gain can lead to jobs in space agencies, observatories, education, data science, and a variety of technology-driven industries. Here are some of the most common roles our graduates pursue, along with their national average salaries according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023).
- Aerospace engineer: $134,830
- Astronomer: $128,940
- Astrophysicist: $113,102
- Climatologist: $97,450
- Museum educator: $57,100
- Observatory manager: $161,180
- Planetarium director: $75,756
- Research scientist: $112,590
- Science writer/journalist: $72,270
- Teacher (high school science): $64,580
- Telescope engineer: $53,206
What is an astronomy degree?

The astronomy major at Kutztown University is a specialized track within the physics degree that lets you explore the universe through science. By blending physics, mathematics, and computer science, the program provides a solid foundation for understanding space while equipping you with versatile problem-solving and analytical skills.
What on-campus career experience can I get as an astronomy major?
Kutztown University offers plenty of ways to gain career experience right on campus while pursuing your astronomy degree. Here’s how students in the program get involved and build their skills beyond the classroom:
- Sigma Pi Sigma (Physics Honor Society)
- Physics Club
- Planetarium & Observatory Outreach
- Math Club
- Environmental Action Club.
- Research and Honors Programs