UTexas

Astronomy (AST)

AST 301  Introduction to Astronomy  3 Hours  

(TCCN: ASTR 1303, PHYS 1303)  
3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
General introduction to astronomy for nonscience majors. The solar system, stars, galaxies, and cosmology. Only one of the following may be counted: Astronomy 301, 302, 303, 307. May not be counted toward a degree in the College of Natural Sciences. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Core Curriculum: 030  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 101L  Astronomy Discovery Laboratory  1 Hour  

0 Lecture Hours  3 Lab Hours  
Hands-on projects in observational astronomy and related laboratory disciplines. Students work in small groups. May not be counted by students with credit for Astronomy 103L. Three laboratory hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Credit or registration for Astronomy 301.  
Restrictions: For nonscience majors.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 302  Self-Paced Introduction to Astronomy  3 Hours  

0 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
General, self-paced introduction to astronomy for nonscience majors. The solar system, stars, galaxies, and cosmology. Only one of the following may be counted: Astronomy 301, 302, 303, 307. May not be counted toward a degree in the College of Natural Sciences. Self-paced.
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 303  Introduction to Astronomy with Celestial Observations  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
General introduction to astronomy for nonscience majors. The solar system, stars, galaxies, and cosmology. Introduces students to the night sky and includes some observational activities. Only one of the following may be counted: Astronomy 301, 302, 303, 307. May not be counted toward a degree in the College of Natural Sciences. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 103L  Astronomical Observations  1 Hour  

(TCCN: ASTR 1103, PHYS 1103)  
0 Lecture Hours  2 Lab Hours  
Observations of the night sky with the naked eye and small telescopes; indoor laboratory activities. May not be counted by students with credit for Astronomy 101L, 302, or 303. Two laboratory hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Credit or registration for Astronomy 301 or 307.  
Restrictions: For nonscience majors.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 104  Undergraduate Astronomy Seminar  1 Hour  

1 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Discussions about current astronomical research, with different topics emphasized each semester. May be repeated twice for credit when the topics vary. One lecture hour a week for one semester.
Restrictions: Designed for astronomy majors.  
Grading: Pass/Fail  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 307  Introductory Astronomy  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Introduction to astronomy for science and engineering students. The solar system, stars, galaxies, and cosmology. Only one of the following may be counted: Astronomy 301, 302, 303, 307. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Core Curriculum: 030  
Pre/Corequisites: Mathematics 305G or the equivalent or consent of instructor; high school trigonometry and physics are recommended.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 309  Topics in Astronomy for Nonscience Students  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Selected topics in modern astronomy: solar system, galaxies, peculiar stars, cosmology, and others. May not be counted toward a degree in the College of Natural Sciences. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: May be repeated for credit when the topics vary.  
Academic Level: Lower Division  
Topic 1: Popular Astronomy. Survey of topics of greatest interest to the public and the media, including new planets, black holes, dark matter, dark energy, and the origin of the Universe.
  

AST 309.1  Popular Astronomy  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Survey of topics of greatest interest to the public and the media, including new planets, black holes, dark matter, dark energy, and the origin of the Universe.
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 309C  Birth of Stars and Planets  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Study of how stars and planets form, including discussions on the implications for the formation of our own solar system. Designed for non-College of Natural Sciences majors. Astronomy 309 (Topic: Birth of Stars and Planets) and 309C may not both be counted. May not be counted toward a degree in the College of Natural Sciences. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Core Curriculum: 030  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 309G  Popular Astronomy for Nonscience Students  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Subjects include new planets, neutron stars, supernovae, gamma-ray bursts, black holes, dark matter, dark energy, and the origin of the universe. Designed for non-College of Natural Sciences majors. Astronomy 309 (Topic 1: Popular Astronomy) and 309G may not both be counted. May not be counted toward a degree in the College of Natural Sciences. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Core Curriculum: 030  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 309L  Search for Extraterrestrial Life  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Origin of life in the solar system, existence of other planetary systems, possibilities and techniques for detection of and communication with other intelligences. Designed for non-College of Natural Sciences majors. May not be counted toward a degree in the College of Natural Sciences. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Core Curriculum: 030  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 309N  Lives and Deaths of Stars  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
How stars live and die; extremes of stars and their life cycles. Exotic objects such as white dwarfs, supernovae, neutron stars, pulsars, and black holes. Specific subjects may vary with instructor. Designed for non-College of Natural Sciences majors. May not be counted toward a degree in the College of Natural Sciences. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Core Curriculum: 030  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 309P  Astronomy in Science Fiction  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
The use of astronomy and other sciences in science fiction literature. Critical analysis of selected novels as to the validity of the astronomy used. Designed for non-College of Natural Sciences majors. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 309Q  Time and the Cosmos  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
From the beginning of time in the Big Bang to the end of time in the black hole. Includes the early universe, the formation and evolution of single and double stars, and the supercompact objects they eventually become: white dwarfs, pulsars, and black holes. Designed for non-College of Natural Sciences majors. May not be counted toward a degree in the College of Natural Sciences. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 309R  Galaxies, Quasars, and the Universe  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Galaxies, quasars, giant black holes; cosmic evolution; the origin and future of the universe. Designed for non-College of Natural Sciences majors. May not be counted toward a degree in the College of Natural Sciences. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Core Curriculum: 030  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 309S  The Solar System  3 Hours  

(TCCN: ASTR 1304, PHYS 1304)  
3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
The nature, origin, and evolution of our solar system, including planets, moons, and other bodies. Designed for non-College of Natural Sciences majors. May not be counted toward a degree in the College of Natural Sciences. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Core Curriculum: 030  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 309T  The Milky Way Galaxy  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Our spiral system of stars, gas, and dust; star formation. Designed for non-College of Natural Sciences majors. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 110C, 210C, 310C  Conference Course in Astronomy  1-3 Hours  

1,2,3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Independent research course with supervision by astronomy faculty member or research scientist. For each semester hour of credit earned, the equivalent of one lecture hour a week for one semester; hours to be arranged.
Restrictions: Restricted enrollment; contact the department for permission to register.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: Yes (Unlimited)  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 110K, 210K, 310K  Topics in Astronomy Research  1-3 Hours  

1,2,3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
For each semester hour of credit earned, the equivalent of one lecture hour a week for one semester; hours to be arranged.
Pre/Corequisites: Consent of instructor or adviser.  
Restrictions: Designed for science and engineering majors.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: May be repeated for credit when the topics vary.  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 111G, 211G, 311G  Galaxy Evolution - Vertically Integrated Projects I  1-3 Hours  

1,2,3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Improve Python programming skills and learn application to galaxy evolution research in astronomy. Develop research skills through a group project and discussions. Report on progress each week, produce a research notebook, and conduct presentations. For each semester hour of credit earned, the equivalent of one lecture hour a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Sophomore standing; Astronomy 307 with a grade of at least B+; and Astronomy 376R, 275, or 375 with a grade of at least B+.  
Restrictions: Restricted to students in the College of Natural Sciences or the Cockrell School of Engineering.  
Grading: Letter Grade  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 112G, 212G, 312G  Galaxy Evolution - Vertically Integrated Projects II  1-3 Hours  

1,2,3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Collaborate with senior mentoring team to define and develop capstone research project. Complete original project initiated in Astronomy 211G, and present results at the CNS Undergraduate Research Fair. Analyze and discuss current scientific papers related to astronomy. For each semester hour of credit earned, the equivalent of one lecture hour a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Astronomy 211G with a grade of at least A-.  
Restrictions: Restricted to students in the College of Natural Sciences or the Cockrell School of Engineering.  
Grading: Letter Grade  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Lower Division  

AST 119S, 219S, 319S, 419S, 519S, 619S, 719S, 819S, 919S  Topics in Astronomy  1-9 Hours  

0 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
This course is used to record credit the student earns while enrolled at another institution in a program administered by the University's Study Abroad Office. Credit is recorded as assigned by the study abroad adviser in the Department of Astronomy. University credit is awarded for work in an exchange program; it may be counted as coursework taken in residence. Transfer credit is awarded for work in an affiliated studies program.
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: May be repeated for credit when the topics vary.  

AST 321  Topics in Current Problems in Astronomy  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Upper-division standing; and Astronomy 301, 302, 303, or consent of instructor.  
Restrictions: For nonscience majors.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: May be repeated for credit when the topics vary.  
Academic Level: Upper Division  

AST 122G, 222G, 322G  Galaxy Evolution - Vertically Integrated Projects Capstone  1-3 Hours  

1,2,3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Continue capstone research project developed in Astronomy 212G. Discuss and pursue publication possibilities. Present poster of research results at the CNS Undergraduate Research Fair and in an oral presentation. For each semester hour of credit earned, the equivalent of one lecture hour a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Astronomy 212G with a grade of at least A-.  
Restrictions: Restricted to students in the College of Natural Sciences or the Cockrell School of Engineering.  
Grading: Letter Grade  
Repeatable for credit: Yes (Unlimited)  
Academic Level: Upper Division  

AST 324  Origins: The Universe, Stars, Planets, and Life  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Cosmic origins from the Big Bang to life, and the connections among the origins of stars, planets, and life. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Upper-division standing; and Astronomy 301, 302, 303, or consent of instructor.  
Restrictions: For nonscience majors.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Upper Division  

AST 129S, 229S, 329S, 429S, 529S, 629S, 729S, 829S, 929S  Topics in Astronomy  1-9 Hours  

0 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
This course is used to record credit the student earns while enrolled at another institution in a program administered by the University's Study Abroad Office. Credit is recorded as assigned by the study abroad adviser in the Department of Astronomy. University credit is awarded for work in an exchange program; it may be counted as coursework taken in residence. Transfer credit is awarded for work in an affiliated studies program.
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: May be repeated for credit when the topics vary.  

AST 350L  History and Philosophy of Astronomy  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Historical influence of astronomical concepts on social, economic, literary, and scientific life; the place of astronomy in society. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Upper-division standing; and Astronomy 301, 302, 303, or consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Upper Division  

AST 351  Astronomical Instrumentation  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
A hands-on course in computer-controlled optical instrumentation. Intended for natural science and engineering students interested in the practical aspects of instrument design and construction. Includes optics and optical design, electronics, machining and mechanical design, and computer interfacing. Students work in groups and as teams to design a computer-controlled optical instrument. The equivalent of three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Upper-division standing in the College of Natural Sciences or the Cockrell School of Engineering, or consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Upper Division  

AST 352K  Stellar Astronomy  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Properties of stars and starlight: principles of radiation; interpretation of stellar spectra. Observational techniques such as photometry, spectroscopy, and telescopes and detectors; variable stars; binary stars. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Upper-division standing, and one of the following: Physics 301 and 303L; 301 and 316; 303K and 303L; or 303K and 316.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Upper Division  

AST 352L  Positional, Dynamical, and Kinematical Astronomy  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Coordinate systems and time; stellar positions and motions; the kinematics and dynamics of star clusters and galaxies. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Credit or registration for Mathematics 427K.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Upper Division  

AST 152M  Stellar Astronomy Laboratory  1 Hour  

0 Lecture Hours  3 Lab Hours  
An introduction to practical observational techniques in astronomy, designed for astronomy majors or advanced students in a physical science. Exercises on the spectroscopy, photometry, and positions of stars using a sixteen-inch telescope on campus. With consent of instructor, may be repeated for credit. Three laboratory hours a week for one semester.
Core Curriculum: 010  
Pre/Corequisites: Physics 316 and 116L; credit or registration for Astronomy 352K is recommended.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Upper Division  

AST 353  Astrophysics  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Survey of the physics of stellar and nonstellar radiation laws, stellar atmospheres and interiors; high-energy astrophysics. Designed for science and engineering majors. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: One of the following: Physics 301 and 303L; 301 and 316; 303K and 303L; or 303K and 316.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Upper Division  

AST 358  Galaxies and the Universe  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Our galaxy and its constituents; stars and interstellar matter. Properties of other galaxies; galaxy interactions and mergers; expansion and evolution of the universe. Designed for science and engineering majors. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Upper-division standing, and one of the following: Physics 301 and 303L; 301 and 316; 303K and 303L; or 303K and 316.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Upper Division  

AST 364P  Planetary Systems  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Modern studies of the solar system, including properties of the planets and smaller bodies, and the origin of planetary systems. Astronomy 364 and 364P may not both be counted. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Upper-division standing; Physics 316 or 303L; and Astronomy 307, 352K, or 353.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Upper Division  

AST 367M  Physical Science: Methods of Astronomy  3 Hours  

0 Lecture Hours  6 Lab Hours  
An introductory, self-paced course in the methods of astronomy that emphasizes learning astronomical principles through observations. May not be counted toward the Bachelor of Arts, Plan I, degree with a major in astronomy. Six laboratory hours a week for one semester.
Same as: P S 367M  
Pre/Corequisites: Upper-division standing and nine semester hours of coursework in mathematics and/or science, including one of the following: Physical Science 303, 304, Astronomy 301, 302, 303. Equivalent preparation in mathematics, physics, chemistry, or earth sciences may be substituted with written approval of the instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Upper Division  

AST 175, 275, 375  Topics in Astronomy Research  1-3 Hours  

1,2,3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
For each semester hour of credit earned, the equivalent of one lecture hour a week for one semester; hours to be arranged.
Pre/Corequisites: Consent of instructor or adviser.  
Restrictions: Designed for science and engineering majors.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: May be repeated for credit when the topics vary.  
Academic Level: Upper Division  

AST 175C, 275C, 375C  Conference Course in Astronomy  1-3 Hours  

1,2,3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Independent research course with astronomy faculty member or research scientist. For each semester hour of credit earned, the equivalent of one lecture hour a week for one semester; hours to be arranged.
Restrictions: Restricted enrollment; contact the department for permission to register.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: Yes (Unlimited)  
Academic Level: Upper Division  

AST 376  Special Topics in Advanced Astronomy  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Up to six semester hours may be counted toward the major requirement for the Bachelor of Arts with a major in astronomy. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Upper-division standing and consent of instructor.  
Restrictions: Designed for science majors.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: May be repeated for credit when the topics vary.  
Academic Level: Upper Division  
Topic 1: Observational Methods in Astronomy. A hands-on course in astronomical observations and data analysis. Explores astronomical observing techniques, data reduction and analysis, and interpretation of results. The coursework will include regular exercises in obtaining and analyzing data to solve currently relevant astronomical problems. Additional prerequisite: Astronomy 376R with a grade of at least C-.
  

AST 376.1  Observational Methods in Astronomy  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
A hands-on course in astronomical observations and data analysis. Explores astronomical observing techniques, data reduction and analysis, and interpretation of results. The coursework will include regular exercises in obtaining and analyzing data to solve currently relevant astronomical problems.
Pre/Corequisites: Astronomy 376R with a grade of at least C-.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Upper Division  

AST 376C  Cosmology  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
The laws of physics applied to the Universe at large: its featureless beginning in the Big Bang, its fundamental constituents including radiation, atoms, and dark matter; the discoveries of universal expansion and dark energy, and a structure reflected in the web of galaxies. Designed for science and engineering majors. Astronomy 376 (Topic: Cosmology) and 376C may not both be counted. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Upper-division standing, and one of the following: Physics 301 and 303L; 301 and 316; 303K and 303L; or 303K and 316.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Upper Division  

AST 376R  A Practical Introduction to Research Methods  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Practical exercises including analysis of imaging data, visualization, programming exercises with Python, IDL or other languages, statistical analyses, and training for papers and oral presentations. Astronomy 376 (Topic: Practical Intro to Research) and 376R may not both be counted. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Mathematics 305G or the equivalent; prior computing experience and an introductory astronomy course are recommended.  
Restrictions: Restricted to science and engineering majors.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Upper Division  

AST 379H  Honors Tutorial Course  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Research project and thesis for students electing to take the honors program in astronomy. May be repeated once for credit. Conference course.
Pre/Corequisites: Consent of the departmental honors adviser.  
Restrictions: Restricted to science majors approved to graduate with honors.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Upper Division  

AST 380E  Radiative Processes and Radiative Transfer  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Classical and quantum radiative processes relevant to astrophysics; basic radiative transfer. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 381  Topics in Theoretical Astrophysics  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: May be repeated for credit when the topics vary.  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 381C  Gravitational Dynamics  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Orbital, collective, and tidal effects of astronomical objects, such as planets, stars, galaxies, and interstellar medium, under the influence of a gravitational field. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 381S  Seminar in Theoretical Astrophysics  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Topics to be announced. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Credit No Credit  
Repeatable for credit: Yes (Unlimited)  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 382C  Astrophysical Gas Dynamics  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
The basic principles of compressible gas dynamics and magnetohydrodynamics, developed and applied in an astrophysical context to a wide range of astronomical phenomena. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing in astronomy or physics, or graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 382D  Astronomical Data Analysis  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Apply statistical analysis techniques to astronomical data. Examine probability theory, parameter estimation, Bayesian statistics, Markov Chain Monte Carlo methods, and model fitting. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of department.  
Restrictions: Restricted to Astronomy majors.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 383  Topics in Stellar Astronomy  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: May be repeated for credit when the topics vary.  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 383C  Stellar Atmospheres  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Observational properties of stellar atmospheres; theoretical calculations of stellar atmospheres and stellar spectra. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 383D  Stellar Structure and Evolution  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Theoretical calculations of the structure and evolution of stars. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 383E  Order of Magnitude Astrophysics  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Apply rapid estimation strategies employing astrophysical knowledge to answer a broad range of problems. Develop skills in posing and answering questions about research. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing.  
Restrictions: Restricted to astronomy majors.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 383L  Seminar in Planets and Life  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Discussions concerning the solar system; the detection, formation, and evolution of planets; planetary atmospheres, climates, and meteorology; and various aspects of life in the universe. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Credit No Credit  
Repeatable for credit: Yes (Unlimited)  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 383T  Seminar in Stellar Astronomy  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Credit No Credit  
Repeatable for credit: Yes (Unlimited)  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 384C  Computational Astrophysics  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Investigate, compare, and implement computational techniques for numerical modeling of astrophysical systems. Astronomy 381 (Topic: Computational Astrophysics) and 384C may not both be counted. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of department.  
Restrictions: Restricted to astronomy majors.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 384T  Current Studies in Astronomy for Teachers  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  12 Lab Hours  
Lectures and laboratory work in astronomy for elementary and secondary school teachers of earth science, physical science, or astronomy. Three lecture hours and twelve laboratory hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 385  Topics in Conference Course  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Three conference hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: May be repeated for credit when the topics vary.  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 185C  Conference on Modern Astronomy  1 Hour  

1 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
A broad introduction to the research being conducted by the faculty and research staff in astronomy. One lecture hour a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 386  Topics in Extragalactic Astronomy  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Topics include classification of galaxies, distance indicators, luminosities, dimensions, colors, spectra, polarization, radio emission, rotation, masses; formation and evolution; pairs, groups, clusters, superclusters, large-scale distribution, redshifts, cosmology. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: May be repeated for credit when the topics vary.  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 386C  Properties of Galaxies  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Observational properties of galaxies and their interpretation; includes a discussion of the Milky Way galaxy. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 386S  Seminar in Extragalactic Astronomy  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Topics to be announced. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Credit No Credit  
Repeatable for credit: Yes (Unlimited)  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 389  Topics in Dynamical Astronomy  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Topics include planetary and stellar motions, asymptotic representations of quasi integrals, galactic dynamics. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: May be repeated for credit when the topics vary.  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 390F  Stars, Planets, and Interstellar Matter Seminar  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Present and discuss current research broadly related to stars, planets in the Solar System, extrasolar planets, and interstellar matter. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of department.  
Restrictions: Restricted to astronomy majors.  
Grading: Credit No Credit  
Repeatable for credit: Yes (Unlimited)  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 390G  Galaxies and Cosmology Seminar  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Present and discuss current research on properties of galaxies, galaxy evolution, cosmology, and related subjects. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of department.  
Restrictions: Restricted to astronomy majors.  
Grading: Credit No Credit  
Repeatable for credit: Yes (Unlimited)  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 391  Graduate Research in Astronomy  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing in astronomy and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Credit No Credit  
Repeatable for credit: Yes (Unlimited)  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 392D  Mathematical Methods of Astrophysics  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Statistics, error theory, least squares and curve fitting, numerical methods, approximation theory, Fourier transforms, sampling theory, time-series analysis. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 392E  Topics in Optical Techniques in Astronomy  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Topics include photometry, spectroscopy, direct imaging, interferometry and polarimetry at ultraviolet, visual, and infrared wavelengths. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: May be repeated for credit when the topics vary.  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 392G  Observing Techniques in Astronomy  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Survey of techniques used at the McDonald Observatory. Includes workshop at the observatory. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 392J  Astronomical Instrumentation  3 Hours  

1 Lecture Hours  5 Lab Hours  
A hands-on course in instrument development, including mechanical design and machining, electronics design, optical design and optics, computer interfacing, and project planning. Students use CAD programs in each area and design and build a computer-controlled instrument. Learning activities are carried out in groups and teams. One lecture hour and five laboratory hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 393F  Survey of the Interstellar Medium  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
A broad introduction to the processes and properties of the interstellar medium. Topics include H I regions, H II regions, molecular clouds, interstellar dust, and the distribution of the interstellar medium in our galaxy. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 393S  Seminar in Interstellar Matter  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Topics to be announced. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Credit No Credit  
Repeatable for credit: Yes (Unlimited)  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 394F  Formation of Galaxies and Large-Scale Structure  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Investigate formation and evolution of galaxies and larger structures in their cosmological context, including dark matter, dark energy, and the intergalactic medium. Astronomy 381 (Topic: Frmtn Galax/Lrg-Scale Strct) and 394F may not both be counted. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: For astronomy or physics majors, graduate standing; for others, graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 394P  Planetary Astrophysics  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Discuss exoplanet detection methods; demographics, architecture, formation and evolution of planetary systems; planetary interiors, atmospheres and habitability. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of department.  
Restrictions: Restricted to Astronomy majors.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 395H  High Redshift Galaxies  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Examine galaxy evolution, emphasizing first galaxies to the cosmic star formation peak at redshift z=2. Interpret relevant observations and simulations. Astronomy 386 (Topic: Galaxy Evol at High Redshift) and 395H may not both be counted. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of department.  
Restrictions: Restricted to astronomy majors.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 396C  Elements of Cosmology  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
A theoretical discussion of the origin and evolution of the universe; includes a brief review of general relativity. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 697  Graduate Research Project  6 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Two-semester graduate research project in astronomy. The equivalent of three hours of work a week for two semesters.
Pre/Corequisites: For 697A, graduate standing and consent of instructor; for 697B, Astronomy 697A.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 698  Thesis  6 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
The equivalent of three lecture hours a week for two semesters.
Pre/Corequisites: For 698A, graduate standing in astronomy and consent of the graduate adviser; for 698B, Astronomy 698A.  
Grading: Credit No Credit  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Master's  

AST 398R  Master's Report  3 Hours  

0 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Preparation of a report to fulfill the requirement for the master's degree under the report option. The equivalent of three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing in astronomy and consent of the graduate adviser.  
Grading: Credit No Credit  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Master's  

AST 398T  Supervised Teaching in Astronomy  3 Hours  

3 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Effective astronomy teaching: course design, instructional materials, test design, other methods. In-class practice teaching. Projects in astronomy education. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
Pre/Corequisites: Graduate standing and consent of the instructor or consent of the graduate advisor.  
Grading: Student Option  
Repeatable for credit: No  
Academic Level: Doctoral  

AST 399W, 699W, 999W  Dissertation  3,6,9 Hours  

0 Lecture Hours  0 Lab Hours  
Pre/Corequisites: Admission to candidacy for the doctoral degree.  
Grading: Credit No Credit  
Repeatable for credit: Yes (Unlimited)  
Academic Level: Doctoral