Michigan Astronomy

Undergraduate AcademicsUndergraduate Academics

Astronomy & Astrophysics Minor

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An academic minor in Astronomy and Astrophysics is not open to students with a concentration in Department of Astronomy.

This academic minor will give students a good understanding of the astrophysics of stars, galaxies, and the universe, as well as a broad introduction to the Solar system. It is offered to students with a strong background in physics and math, who wish to develop a deep expertise in astronomy., but who don't wish to concentrate in astronomy and astrophysics.

Students wishing to pursue an academic minor in Astronomy and Astrophysics must develop a specific plan for its completion in consultation with the department's designated advisor. Information about scheduling advising appointments is available from the department office, 830 Dennison building, 764-3440. The undergraduate advisor is Professor Bergin.

Information on declaring a concentration or minor is on the Astronomy and Astrophysics Concentration page.

Prerequisites to the Academic Minor:

  1. Mathematics through differential equations: MATH 216 or its equivalent,
  2. PHYSICS 140/141, 240/241, and 340/341.

Academic Minor Program: 15 credits of courses as follows:

  1. No more than two Introductory Courses from this group
    1. Introduction to Astronomy and Astrophysics: ASTRO 201 (preferred) or 102.
    2. Introduction to the Solar System: ASTRO 101.
  2. Core Courses: at least two courses chosen from among: ASTRO 361, 402, 404.
  3. Electives: Remaining credits can be selected from ASTRO 399, 401, 403, 405, 406, 427.