Astronomy Course: Admission 2024, Fees, Syllabus, Entrance Exam, Top Colleges, Career Scope

Astronomy courses are designed to study about the physical universe. It goes beyond the earth's atmosphere like the moon, sun, planets, stars, meteors, etc. As an Astronomy student, you'll get to learn about the basic principles of Physics and Mathematics for astronomical observations.

Overall employment of physicists and astronomers is expected to expand by 8% from 2025 to 2031, faster than the national average. On average, 2,100 openings for physicists and astronomers are expected per year during the next decade. Many of those positions are likely to be filled as a result of the need to replace people who change occupations or leave the labor force, such as to retire.

Further, with discoveries and advancements in technology, the field of astronomy study is continually changing and expanding. This is why the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine conducted a decadal survey to determine research goals, opportunities, and funding suggestions for Astronomy and Astrophysics during the ensuing ten years.

The study of astronomy requires a lot of skills and expertise in the field-related aspects. The ability to solve complex problems, conduct research, analyse data, Maths, Physics and knowledge in basic science-related subjects are the most important skill sets of an individual.

• Mathematical Skills
• Physics Knowledge
• Computer Programming
• Data Analysis
• Critical Thinking
• Problem-Solving
• Research Skills
• Attention to Detail
• Communication Skills

Indeed! Astronomy courses are available at various levels like UG, PG, Doctorate, and certification. Some popular Astronomy courses include

• Certificate: Certificate in Astronomy
• UG: BSc in Astronomy/Astrophysics, Space Science
• PG: MSc in Astronomy/Astrophysics, Space Science
• Doctorate: Ph.D. in Astronomy/Astrophysics

Future developments in astronomy degrees will prioritize cutting-edge technology and increased experiential learning. The analysis of space data through artificial intelligence and machine learning has increased. A growing number of people are also interested in astrobiology, the study of extraterrestrial life.

The course curriculum for Astronomy includes a range of subjects that cover the study of celestial objects and phenomena. Students learn fundamental physics concepts, such as mechanics and electromagnetism, to apply to celestial bodies and processes. Mathematics, particularly algebra, and calculus, is also crucial for data analysis and modelling.

No, Astronomy courses are a combination of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics to make astronomical observations. Hence, you are required to have PCM/PCMB subjects in your Class 12 to be eligible for Astronomy courses. 

The eligibility criteria for various Astronomy course levels are:

• Certificate Course: Pass 10+2 examinations from a recognized education board.
• UG: Pass 10+2 examinations in the science stream from a recognized education board.
• PG: Bachelor's degree in Astronomy or similar discipline.
• PhD: Master's degree in Astronomy or a similar discipline.

Yes, there are age criteria for some Astronomy courses and exams: 

• National Standard Examination in Astronomy (NSEA): Students must be between 14 and 19 years old when they enroll for the NSEA. 
• Indian National Astronomy Olympiad (INAO): Students must be in Class XII or below.
• International Astronomy Olympiad (IAO): Students must be in group Alpha (14–15 years old) or group Beta (16–18 years old). 
• International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA): Students must be under the age of 20. 

No, the NEET is not required for pursuing a course in Astronomy. NEET exam is for students who wish to study UG Medical and Dental courses (MBBS/BDS) or postgraduate medical courses (MD/MS) in India. Meanwhile, Astronomy is not related to the medical field.

BSc in Astronomy admissions in India are mojorly based on Class 12 score. There is no specific entrance exam conducted for this course. However, some colleges may conduct their university-level exams.

The last date for filling up the online application form for MSc courses has been extended to October 18, 2024. Candidates qualifying in JAM 2025 are eligible to apply for admission to around 3000 seats in IITs for the academic year 2025-26. No additional evaluation process, such as suitability test or interview is required for admission to the programmes in Admitting Institutes under JAM 2025.

IIT JAM 2025 for the academic session 2025-2026 will be conducted by IIT Delhi, the examination conducting body on February 02,  2025. Aspirants who had already completed an undergraduate degree (BSc) or are currently studying in the final year of undergraduate programmes are eligible to apply for the exam. 

Similar to other courses, students will be asked 100 questions in a duration of 90 minutes. Each question will carry one mark. Questions will be asked from the sections/ subjects - Phyiscs, Chemistry and Mathematics. Sections-wise number of questions are provided in the table below

Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is a national-level examination conducted by the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) for admission to Master of Engineering (ME), Master of Technology (MTech), and direct PhD programs in engineering, architecture, and related branches of science.

The eligibility criteria for GATE include passing a bachelor's degree in engineering or technology or basic Science from a recognised university, and meeting the specific eligibility criteria for the discipline you wish to pursue. Candidates from India and other countries can apply for GATE, but they must meet the eligibility criteria. The exam is conducted online and is offered in 30 subjects. Candidates can check details about course-wise eligibility criteria for GATE exam at www.shiksha.com/gate-exam.

Astronomy courses for the bachelor's degree cover the physical and chemical properties of celestial bodies as well as cosmic natural events. The standard length of Astronomy coursework for a bachelor's degree is three years. Students who complete this course are eligible to study Astronomy in several academic fields. 

The most well-liked UG course in Astronomy available in India is the BSc Astronomy program. Astronomy is a subject that students who are curious about the origins of galaxies, the antiquity of the universe, and the formation of planetary systems could find interesting. The study of the universe, particularly in connection to galaxies, stars, and planetary systems, is known as Astronomy.

BSc in Astronomy course is a 4-year program consisting 8 equal semesters. Here is a general overview of BSc Astronomy Syllabus 2024 covered in the course curriculum:

Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary. 

Astronomy is a very broad field of science. There are many specialisations in astronomy like astrophysics, astrochemistry,  astrobiology, and astrogeology. These fields require strong foundations in Physics, Mathematics, and skills to analyse data and develop theoretical models. Below are some of the related degrees similar to astronomy.

• B.Sc. in Astrophysics
• Integrated M.Sc .- Ph.D. in Astrophysics
• M.Sc and Ph.D Astronomy and Astrophysics Integrated
• M.Sc. in Astrophysics
• M.Sc Astronomy and Space Physics
• M.Tech Ph.D Astronomical Instrumentation

There are a limited number of Astronomy colleges in India. However, among BSc Astronomy colleges in India, Rayat Bahra University is a great option for candidates. It offers B.Sc. in Astronomy and Astrophysics degree program of 3 years and the course fee is INR 60,000.

The Astronomy course fee varies depending on the college, course levels, fee structure, location, etc. The average course fee ranges between INR 1,810 to INR 3 Lakh.

Here are some top Astronomy college options offering great placement opportunities:

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body and may vary.

Hi, Following possibilities are open in terms of a career for a physics/mathematics/engineering graduate with a specialization or a Ph.D in Astronomy & Astrophysics.

• Research scientist Several research institutes and government organizations employ research scientists in various academic grades for research-oriented programs.
• University Faculty There will be more openings in the universities, especially in physics departments, for specialists in Astronomy & Astrophysics.
• Industry Experience with sophisticated astronomical instrumentation and the expertise gained in computer programming and handling data can serve as valuable assets for jobs in the industry. Good luck.

Those with degrees in astronomy can find employment in numerous reputable companies. Candidates can find employment as astrophysicists, observational astronomers, theoretical astronomers, biologists, geologists, chemists, space scientists, and instrumentation scientists in the reputable companies listed below.

• NASA
• ISRO
• Tata Institute of Fundamental Research  (TIFR)
• National Centre for Radio Astrophysics (NCRA)
• Bhabha Atomic Research Centre
• National Observatory Astronomy
• Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) 
• Physical Research Laboratory (PRL)
• Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES)
• Raman Research Institute (RRI)

Building instruments is a common activity among Astronomers and is a specialized area of engineering. Electrical, computer, mechanical, and optical engineering are typically used in moderation. Knowledge of computer science can also be helpful because almost all astronomers crunch data. 

It is ideal for a student to gain graduate-level proficiency in Math and Physics before focusing on Astronomy and Astrophysics. A BTech or BE engineer with an interest in Astronomy and Astrophysics can work as a research scholar in the field.

No, you cannot directly join ISRO with a BSc in Astronomy degree. ISRO recruits engineers, scientists, and technicians for its various programs and projects. However, getting further education like an MSc or Doctorate or having relevant experience in a specific field can get you a job or internship opportunity.