Astronomy

Astronomers and astrophysicists study the contents of our universe, including planets, stars, galaxies, and even the universe in its entirety. They are essentially physicists who specialize in using the fundamental laws of nature and the techniques of mathematics to understand our place in the cosmos. Astronomers design and build telescopes and other scientific instruments to collect data from astronomical objects. They then apply the techniques of scientific data reduction and analysis to extract the information from the data collected. While many astronomers and astrophysicists end up in academia, their unique skills are in great demand in many other fields, including aerospace, engineering, computer science, software development, information technology, financial services, education, and public outreach.

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Programs Offered

Transfer Preparation
See also Physics
See also Science: General Science Associate Degree

Transfer Preparation

Many colleges/universities offer baccalaureate degrees in this field. Students planning to transfer to a four-year college or university should complete the lower-division major requirements and the general education pattern for the specific transfer institution. SMC has articulation agreements with the many UC and CSU campuses, as well as several private and out-of-state institutions.

Exact major requirements for UC and CSU campuses can be found online at assist.org.

A listing of private, nonprofit California colleges and universities can be found online at aiccu.edu. For articulation agreements between SMC and some of these institutions see smc.edu/articulation.