The astrophysics major, leading to a bachelor of science degree, provides a thorough introduction to the subject. It is suitable for those with an interest in astronomy who aspire to a career in astronomy research, science education, science journalism, technical development, and other professional areas. Prospective majors should consult an adviser in the Department of Physics and Astronomy before choosing their courses.
In the astrophysics major, at least 15 credits of physics or astrophysics courses at the 300 level or higher that are applied toward the major must be completed at Rutgers University–New Brunswick.
Required courses and suggested curricula for honors students and other well-prepared students:
First year: 01:750:271-272, 275-276; 01:640:151-152
Second year: 01:750:273, 381-382, 351; 01:750:341,342; 01:640:251, 244
Third year: 01:750:361, 385-386; 01:750:343, 344; 01:640:423 or 421; 01:750:368 recommended
Fourth year: At least two courses out of 01:750:441, 442, 443, 444.
Students who plan to take the physics subject test of the
Graduate Record Examination should take 01:750:417 in a prior semester.
An alternate curriculum is available for students who did not begin with the Honors Physics sequence:
First year: 01:750:123-124; 01:640:151-152
Second year: 01:750:227-228, 229-230, 381-382; 01:640:251, 244
Third year: 01:750:361, 385-386, 351; 01:750:341,342; 01:750:368 recommended
Fourth year: 01:640:423 or 421, 01:750:343, 344, and at least two courses out of 01:750:441, 442, 443, 444
Students who took 01:750:203-204 (or 201-202) as their introductory physics sequence should consult a departmental adviser to plan an appropriate curriculum for the astrophysics major.
