Degree Requirements

Master of Arts

Students must complete six of the following introductory courses: Astronomy 380E, 381C, 382C, 383C, 383D, 386C, 392D, 392J, 393F, 396C. Students must also complete Astronomy 185C and two elective courses; the electives may include additional courses from the required group. At least thirty-three semester hours, including 398R, or thirty hours, including Astronomy 698, are required.

Students begin research during their first year. Research is done under the supervision of an adviser and committee and normally takes a year and a half. Upon completing an acceptable research project, with thesis or report, the student is awarded a degree. An alternative program prepares the student to teach college-level astronomy. It includes teaching experience and preparation of a report and normally takes two full years to complete.

Doctor of Philosophy

Students must earn a grade of at least B in seven of the following required courses: Astronomy 380E, 381C, 382C, 383C, 383D, 386C, 392D, 392J, 393F, 396C. They must also complete two elective courses; the electives may include additional courses from the required group. In addition, they are required to attend the Seminar for First Year Astronomy Graduate Students in the fall of their first year of attendance.

Students begin research during their first year. Research is done under the supervision of an adviser and committee and normally takes four to five years. In the spring of their second year, students must present their research to date and pass an oral qualifying examination. They must apply for admission to candidacy by the end of the summer of the second year. Two presentations on research must be given in colloquia or seminars. Finally, the student must complete the dissertation and pass an oral examination on the dissertation.