Astronomy, A.S.
Prairie State College’s Astronomy A.S. program offers a comprehensive introduction to celestial phenomena, astrophysics, and space science. Designed for students planning to transfer to a four-year university, this program also opens pathways to careers in research, education, and space exploration.
What Can You Do with a Degree in Astronomy?
With this degree, you can transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue
a bachelor’s degree in astronomy, astrophysics, or physics. It also provides a foundation
for careers in scientific research, education, space agencies, or technology development
related to space sciences. The program prepares you for advanced study and a career
dedicated to understanding the universe and exploring space.
Graduates with an Associate in Science in Astronomy are prepared to transfer to bachelor’s
programs in astronomy, astrophysics, physics, or related fields. Careers in research,
scientific education, space agencies, and planetary science are available with further
study. The growing interest in space exploration and technology means demand for astronomers
and astrophysicists is expected to increase, offering exciting opportunities for those
passionate about the universe.
Suggested Curriculum
Astronomers study the Earth’s position in the solar system and the universe. Career
opportunities include NASA, air traffic control, and weather forecasting. The typical
four-year program begins with foundational courses in mathematics and physics, followed
by advanced science and math courses in later years. Prairie State College offers
courses equivalent to the first two years of a major in astronomy and awards an Associate
in Science degree to qualified students.
Area A: Communication (9 credits)
- ENG 101 Composition I (C1 900) - with a grade of C or better
- ENG 102 Composition II (C1 901R) - with a grade of C or better
- COMM 101 Principles of Communication (C2 900)
Area B: Humanities and Fine Arts (6 credits)
Select two courses from the list for Area B with one course from humanities and one course from fine arts.
Area C: Mathematics (5 credits)
- MATH 171 Calculus with Analytic Geometry I (M1 900-1; MTH 901)
Area D: Physical and Life Sciences (7-8 credits)
- ASTRO 104 The Solar System and Beyond (IAI: P1 906L)
- Life Science Elective (3-4)
Area E: Social and Behavioral Sciences (6 credits)
Select two courses in two different disciplines from the list for Area E.
Select one MATH course and one ASTRO, BIOL, CHEM, ENGR, GEOG (not GEOG 101), GEOLO, METEO, PHYSC or PHYSI course from the list for Courses Approved for Transfer to qualify for an A.S. degree. Each course must be 3 credits or more. The courses below are recommended to meet this requirement as they are typically taken by freshmen and sophomores at universities for this specific major.
- MATH 172 Calculus with Analytic Geometry II (M1 900-2; MTH 902)
- PHYSI 210 University Physics I (P2 900L; PHY 911)
- PHYSI 220 University Physics II (PHY 912)
- PHYSI 230 University Physics III (PHY 915A)
Select additional science, calculus, and foreign language courses or contact the universities you are considering.
- MATH 173 Calculus with Analytic Geometry III (M1 900-3; MTH 903)
Each college and university has its own major requirements and transfer policies. Consult the schools you are considering and a PSC advisor to discuss courses and their transferability.
Faculty Contact Information
Christine Brooms
Professor, Coordinator, Chemistry Department Chair, Natural Sciences
Email: cbrooms@prairiestate.edu
Phone: 709-3604
Office: 2297
April McDonnell
Science Lab Coordinator
Email: amcdonnell@prairiestate.edu
Phone: 709-7760
Office: 3145
Prairie State College provides a comprehensive array of resources designed to foster student success and well-being. These include disability support services, health and safety protocols, career development counseling, and personal support. Academic assistance is readily available through tutoring, advising, and library services, while transfer advising and campus security ensure a safe and seamless college experience. Additionally, the college offers various financial aid options to help students achieve their educational objectives.
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