StudyQA — Bachelor: Astronomy — University of Iowa

Photos of university / #uiowa

Description Contents Requirements Funding

Physics and astronomy students are driven to understand the nature of space, time, and matter from the quantum level to the outer reaches of the universe. They are intellectually curious, bright, and confident individuals preparing to make their mark in a wide range of careers.

Why Study at Iowa?

The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers challenging courses on a variety of subjects. You'll begin with courses that teach problem-solving skills, logical thinking, and technical skills. Advanced classes usually have 15-20 students, allowing maximum individual attention. As you progress, you'll have opportunities to do research or participate in one of the many internships available at national laboratories and other facilities.

Outside of class, you may join the Society of Physics Students, which is open to all students interested in the subject. The society coordinates field trips and activities that foster student-faculty interaction and scientific learning.

The physics and astronomy program has about 110 undergraduate and 70 graduate students.

Students majoring in astronomy may earn a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS).

In general, the BS prepares you for graduate study in physics or astronomy and for research-related careers. The BA gives you a foundation for professional study in law, medicine, and other areas; for careers in fields such as administration, business, and technical writing; for secondary school teaching; and for graduate school.

These courses are required for both the BA and BS degree programs:

Calculus I–II
Physics I–II–III–IV
General Astronomy I–II
Intermediate Mechanics
Introduction to Astrophysics I–II
Astronomical Laboratory
Additional physics and astronomy courses (choices are different for BA and BS students)

If you're earning a BS, you'll also take Calculus III and a linear algebra course.

Requirements

Pay the $80 application fee
Completion of academic upper secondary school (generally a total of 12-13 years of primary and secondary education)
A corresponding secondary school diploma or leaving certificate
Above-average grades in a secondary school program that is university-preparatory in nature
Upload your academic records
Complete a Financial Statement (PDF) showing evidence of adequate financial support to cover the costs of one full year of study at the University of Iowa.
TOEFL Internet-based test (iBT): 80 with no subscore lower than 17, Paper-based test (PBT): 530
An IELTS (International English Language Testing System) total score of 6.5, with no subscore lower than 6.0