Astronomy

Humans are made to explore. As a student of the Astronomy program, you will get to explore space — from our sister planets in the solar system to the farthest reaches of the universe. Our experienced instructors will teach you where aliens might exist in our galaxy and how to actively search for them today. You'll study our current generation of space probes and how stars are created, live their lives and die, then give birth to the next generation of stars. You will also study black holes — where space and time itself is twisted and warped. As part of the Astronomy program, you will gain hands-on experience using telescopes and computer software to learn the actual techniques used to discover all of these things.

The Astronomy program will provide the necessary foundation to succeed in careers in the life, physical, environmental, and social sciences and related teaching positions.

You could be a part of what you've only dreamed about in science fiction. Join the Astronomy program today and discover the explorer in you.

Students at any Maricopa Community College may need to complete courses at more than one of our colleges.

Associate Degrees and University Transfer
Associate in Science, Emphasis in Astronomy

SCC Program Description

From the Earth to the stars and beyond, curiosity about the world around us has led to today’s greatest discoveries. By studying for a bachelor's in the physical sciences, you’ll explore what is known and unknown in the universe.

Astronomy is the branch of physics that studies celestial bodies and the universe as a whole. It is the science involving the observation and theories about the solar system, the stars, the galaxies, and the general structure of space. Astronomy also includes cosmology, which is the study of the structure, origin, and evolution of the universe.

Responsibilities may include:

  • Designing and conducting experiments
  • Teaching at the secondary level
  • Analyzing data
  • Writing research proposals and scientific papers
  • Collaborating with other researchers in chemistry, geology, meteorology, and other fields

Course Format/Textbooks

Classes are offered in various formats: in-person, online, hybrid, day, evening, full-time and part-time.


 

Most of our courses use low-cost textbooks or no-cost material your instructors provide. General education courses may have textbooks that cost more.