To become an astronomer, one must excel in math and science in high school, earn a bachelor’s degree in astronomy, gain field experience through internships or jobs, attend graduate school, and publish solid research. Astronomers can find jobs in academic institutions, observatories, government, and as management consultants. Strong math, physics, computer programming, and writing skills are required.
Obtaining an astronomy degree requires a lot of schooling. As astronomy is a science that relies heavily on mathematics, excellence in mathematics and science is required. Many students who want to become astronomers begin achieving science and math goals as early as high school. During high school years, basic high school calculus must be mastered along with basic science courses.
At the college or university level, students pursuing a degree in astronomy must earn a bachelor of science degree in astronomy or a bachelor of arts degree. In most future astronomers tend to earn a Bachelor of Science degree, some Bachelor of Arts students may also be admitted to astronomy programs at the graduate level.
While education is important, research may be more important. After college or university, prospective astronomers must find a way to gain field experience. This experience can be gained through internships, working in data analysis, finding computer programming jobs, or seeking out instrument building positions.
National astronomy observatories often offer internships for recent graduates, and these opportunities should not be overlooked. Astronomy graduates must also attend graduate school, where other astronomy-related courses are taught. Once an astronomy degree is obtained, astronomers can look for jobs in all sorts of places.
Most astronomers accept positions at academic institutions. Becoming an astronomy professor allows astronomers to research, learn, and teach what they’ve learned to eager students. Other places to look for astronomy positions include observatories, government and laboratories. While it’s hard to find high-paying astronomy jobs, astronomers are in high demand for a number of other reasons.
Many research facilities often employ astronomers as management consultants. Consultants with a scientific background are useful when it comes to technical data and complex research projects. Opportunities in the management consultant field are scarce, although they are often available to those who excel in their field.
The key to getting a high-paying position in astronomy is through research. Astronomers who publish solid research tend to gain a lot of attention in the field of astronomy. By building a solid reputation, some astronomers manage to become invaluable to many types of employers.
In terms of skill, astronomers must have excellent math and physics skills. In addition, astronomers must have strong computer programming skills. Computers are widely used in the field of astronomy, which is why computer courses are required to earn a degree in astronomy. Lastly, astronomers must also have excellent writing skills, as much of their time will be spent writing grant proposals.
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