Astronomy

Departmental Information

Director of Undergraduate Studies
Prof. Joseph Patterson
1316 Pupin
854-3276
jlp@astro.columbia.edu

Departmental Office
1328 Pupin
(212) 854-3278

Departmental Web Site
http://www.astro.columbia.edu/

Astronomy is, at once, the oldest science and one of the most vibrant fields of modern research. Its goal is to construct testable, quantitative, coherent models of the universe (the UNIty of the diVERSE) and its contents—galaxies, stars, and planets. The department offers two majors, both of which require a solid grounding in the mathematics and physics necessary for the pursuit of the discipline.

The astrophysics major is designed as preparation for graduate study and consists of a significant fraction of a standard physics major sequence; a year-long introduction to astrophysics (typically taken in the sophomore year, but open to first-year students with an adequate preparation in calculus and physics); and three courses covering advanced topics in astronomy. Research, in the form of summer internships and/or term-time independent projects, is strongly encouraged.

The astronomy major, while also providing a basis for further study in the field, is designed as a science major for liberal arts students who may well pursue other careers and for students wishing to combine astonomy with related sciences other than physics, such as chemistry or geology. It requires only three physics courses beyond the introductory sequence and can be completed easily if begun in the sophomore year.

The department offers two introductory sequences: C1403 Earth, moon, and planets - C1404 Beyond the solar system is recommended for students not majoring in the sciences; C2001 - C2002 Introduction to astrophysics I and II is recommended for intending astronomy majors and concentrators and is required for astrophysics majors. The two sequences C3601 General relativity, black holes, and cosmology , C3602 Physical cosmology and extragalactic astronomy and C3101 Stellar structure and evolution , C3646 Extrasolar planets and astrobiology are given in alternate years. These sequences need not be taken in any particular order. Each year one or more courses at the 3000 level on other topics in astronomy or astrophysics are offered.