BSc Astronomy: Admission 2025, Fees, Syllabus, Entrance Exam, Top Colleges, Career Scope
Akansha BishtContent Writer
BSc Astronomy is a three-year undergraduate program intended to study celestial objects and phenomena in the universe such as stars, planets, and galaxies. Under this program, students learn how to develop instruments to observe celestial objects, use different types of telescopes, conduct research using Physics, and more.
Admission to BSc in Astronomy course is based on the merit system, therefore, candidates are not required to prepare for entrance exams. The B Sc Astronomy eligibility criteria for admission is to pass Class 12 in the field of Science (Medical/ Non-Medical) with a minimum of 50% marks in aggregate from a recognized board.
The most popular college offering BSc in Astronomy and Astrophysics is Rayat Bahra University. Its average tuition fee ranges from around INR 60,000. Bachelor of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics graduates opt for job profiles such as Astronomer, Space Scientist, Lecturer, Astrophysicist, Instrumentation Scientist, etc.
The average salary of an Astrophysicist is INR 7.9 LPA in India. Some top recruiters for BSc Astronomy and Astrophysics graduates include ISRO, Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), NASA, ARIES, Technology Information, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Forecasting and Assessment Council (TIFAC), NCRA, etc.
Interested candidates can continue reading the article for more BSc Astronomy course details.
Links relevant to BSc Astronomy:
Best Universities for Physics and Astronomy 2024
- BSc Astronomy Course Details: Highlights
- BSc Astronomy Eligibility Criteria
- BSc Astronomy Admission Process 2025
- BSc Astronomy Syllabus
- Popular BSc Astronomy Specialisations
- BSc Astronomy Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
- 6.1 BSc Astronomy Top Jobs and Salary
- 6.2 BSc Astronomy Top Recruiters
- BSc Astronomy Course FAQs
BSc Astronomy Course Details: Highlights
Astronomy is a scientific study of the physical universe. It studies everything beyond the Earth’s atmosphere such as the moon, sun, planets, stars, and more in detail. Interested candidates must see the table below containing key highlights of the BSc in Astronomy and Astrophysics program:
| Parameters | Course Details |
|---|---|
| BSc Astronomy Course Level | Undergraduate |
| BSc Astronomy Course Duration | 3 Years |
| BSc Astronomy Eligibility Criteria | Class 12 with PCM/PCB/PCMB subjects with a minimum of 50% score. |
| BSc Astronomy Admission Criteria | Merit-based |
| BSc Astronomy Colleges | Rayat Bahra University |
| BSc Astronomy Course Fee | INR 60,000 |
| BSc Astronomy Job Profiles | Astronomer, Space Scientist, Lecturer, Astrophysicist, Instrumentation Scientist, etc. |
| BSc Astronomy Top Recruiters | ISRO, Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), NASA, ARIES, Technology Information, BARC, Forecasting and Assessment Council (TIFAC), NCRA, etc. |
| BSc Astronomy Average Salary | INR 7.9 LPA |
Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.
Links useful for BSc Astronomy:
Q: What is the full form of B.Sc Astronomy?
The full form or BSc Astronomy is Bachelor of Science Astronomy, which is also known as Bachelor of Science Astronomy and Astrophysics. It is a 3-year UG degree programme focused on the study of celestial bodies in the universe around the Earth.
Q: Is it worth pursuing B.Sc in Astronomy and Astrophysics?
As a BSc in Astronomy and Astrophysics graduate, you'll have a plenty of career opportunities in both private and government sectors around the world. You can even get the chance to work in the world-class research organizations like ISRO, NASA, BARC, etc., with popular Scientists.
Astronomy is also an interesting field that studies the outer space and not every person gets the exposure to see celestial bodies this closely.
Being an Astronomy student, you can also become an Astronomer or Space Engineer and get a chance to visit the space.
BSc Astronomy Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for the BSc in Astronomy course may vary depending on the college. Admissions are majorly based on the merit system, however, the eligibility requirements are mandatory to fulfil. Here's a general idea of B Sc Astronomy eligibility criteria for interested candidates:
- Class 12 in the Science stream with PCM/B (Physics, Chemistry, Biology or Mathematics) subjects,
- With a minimum of 50% aggregate score (45% in case of candidates belonging to reserved category) from a recognized board.
Suggested links for Bachelor of Science Astronomy and Astrophysics:
Q: Is there any age criteria for Astronomy course or exams?
Usually there's no age criteria for degree courses, however, given below exams may require you to be within a specific age:
- 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 12 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.
Q: Are there any special eligibility requirements for B.Sc in Astronomy course?
No, there are no specific eligibility requirements to pursue a BSc in Astronomy and Astrophysics program. You just need to pass Class 12 in the Science stream with a minimum of 50% aggregate score from a recognised board. There may be some relaxation for reserved categories.
BSc Astronomy Admission Process 2025
The admission procedure to the BSc in Astronomy and Astrophysics program is similar to any other merit-based BSc program admission. For candidates' reference, here's a step-by-step guide to the admission process for BSc in Astronomy after 12th:
STEP I: Eligibility Criteria
The first step for the candidate is to check the B Sc Astronomy eligibility criteria for their desired college and ensure that they fulfil it.
STEP II: Application Form
Next, is to fill out the application form for the college either online or offline.
STEP III: Wait for Cutoffs
A candidate's academic performance in their qualifying exams, such as secondary school or its equivalent, is taken into consideration when determining their admission to the program.
STEP IV: Counselling
The college may occasionally ask shortlisted applicants to attend counselling sessions. Candidates may get advice on choosing courses, campus amenities, and other facets of student life during these sessions.
STEP V: Verification of Documents
Upon being offered admission, applicants must finish the document verification procedure. Original copies of certificates, academic transcripts, identification documents, and other pertinent paperwork must be submitted for the university verification.
STEP VI: Fee Payment
Upon acceptance of the admission offer, candidates usually have to pay the BSc Astronomy program's total fees. Tuition, registration fees, and any other relevant payments might be included.
BSc Astronomy topics you might be interested in:
Q: What documents are required for admission to B.Sc Astronomy?
Here are some important documents you may need while completing your BSc Astronomy admission process:
- Class 12 and 10 mark sheets
- Valid ID Proof (Passport/Adhar/PAN Card, etc.)
- Migration Certificate
- Character Certificate
- Passport-sized photographs
BSc Astronomy Syllabus
In addition to studying stars, galaxies, extrasolar planets, and the interstellar medium, the BSc in Astronomy and Astrophysics syllabus includes the fundamentals of Physics and illustrates how it is applied in Astronomy. The topics covered in BSc Astronomy courses are based on the physical and chemical characteristics of celestial bodies.
Here's a basic idea of subjects covered in the BSc Astronomy syllabus for almost every college:
| BSc Astronomy Subjects Semester I | |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | Laboratory experiments |
| Mechanics | Oscillation and Waves |
| BSc Astronomy Subjects Semester II | |
| Properties of Matter | Astrophysics |
| Physics of field and matter | Special relativity |
| BSc Astronomy Subjects Semester III | |
| Modern Physics | Dynamics and Vector Calculus |
| Quantum Mechanics | Cosmology |
| Mathematical Physics | - |
| BSc Astronomy Subjects Semester IV | |
| Linear Algebra and Calculus | Practical Physics |
| Classical Mechanics | Thermal Physics |
| Nuclear and Particle Physics | - |
| BSc Astronomy Subjects Semester V | |
| Galaxies | Dynamics and Relativity |
| Statistics Physics | - |
| BSc Astronomy Subjects Semester VI | |
| Quantum Mechanics | Thermodynamics |
| Research Methodology | - |
Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.
Links relevant to BSc Astronomy:
Q: What is the BSc Astronomy Syllabus?
BSc in Astronomy course is a 3-year program consisting 6 equal semesters. The subjects and syllabus may vary depending on the college, however, here is a general overview of BSc Astronomy Syllabus covered in the course curriculum:
| BSc Astronomy Subjects Sem I | |
|---|---|
| Mathematical Physics I | Environment Sustainability & Climate Change |
| Mechanics | Critical Thinking |
| BSc Astronomy Subjects Sem II | |
| Electricity and Magnetism | Mathematical Physics II |
| Thermal Physics | Living Conversations |
| BSc Astronomy Subjects Sem III | |
| Waves and Optics | Elements of Modern Physics |
| Analog Systems and Applications | Skill Enhancement Course I (Elective) |
| BSc Astronomy Subjects Sem IV | |
| Mathematical Physics | Digital System and Application |
| Solid State Physics | Skill Enhancement Course II (Elective) |
| BSc Astronomy Subjects Sem V | |
| Quantum Mechanics and Application | Minor -V |
| Atomic and Molecular Physics | Leadership & Teamwork |
| BSc Astronomy Subjects Sem VI | |
| Electromagnetic Theory | Nuclear and Particle Physics |
| Statistical Mechanics | Minor -VI |
Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.
Q: What is the difference between astronomy and astrophysics?
Astronomy is the science of measuring the positions and characteristics of heavenly bodies, and Astrophysics is the application of physics to understand astronomy. However, nowadays, the two terms are more or less interchangeable since all astronomers use physics to understand their findings.
The study of all celestial bodies and phenomena visible from Earth, including their positions and movements. Astronomers use telescopes and other instruments to gather data and develop theories about the universe. Astrophysicists use physics to analyze data and explain the nature of these objects.
Popular BSc Astronomy Specialisations
Astronomy is everything we study beyond Earth's atmosphere. This subject applies the aspects of Physics, Biology, and Geology to explain celestial objects' origin and evolution. While there are numerous specializations of Astronomy, it is majorly divided into 4 categories:
- Astrophysics: It practices the principles of Physics and Astronomy to know the physical processes and properties of stars, etc. Specializations included in Astrophysics are Cosmology, Spectroscopy, Photometry, Heliophysics, Asteroseismology, and more.
- Astrometry: It focuses on the positions and movements of celestial bodies. Planetology and Exoplanetololgy are some popular specializations under Astrometry.
- Astrogeology: It focuses on how Geology relates to celestial bodies like moons, asteroids, meteorites, and comets. Areology, Selenography, and Exogeology are some popular specializations of Astrogeology.
- Astrobiology: It studies the probability of life in Space. Exobiology and Astrochemistry are some popular specializations of Astrobiology.
Suggested links for Bachelor of Science Astronomy and Astrophysics:
Popular Specializations
- Astronomy
1 College
Q: What are the degree courses under Astronomy?
Astronomy is a very broad field of Science divided into 4 categories: Astrophysics, Astrochemistry, Astrobiology, and Astrogeology. They require strong basics in Physics, Mathematics, and skills to analyse data and develop theoretical models. Below are some of the degrees under 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
Q: Is there any Astronomy certification course I can do before or after completing B.Sc in Astronomy?
Yes, there are many Astronomy-related certifications after Class 12 you can opt for to get a basic understanding of Astronomy and Astrophysics elements:
| Course Name | Platform | Duration | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Astronomy : Exploring Time and Space (Certificate Course) | Coursera | 1 hour | INR 3600 |
| Astronomy and Astrophysics (Diploma) | MKU | 1 year | INR 5000 |
| Astrophysics: Cosmology | EdX | 10 weeks | INR 3765 |
| Super Earths and Life | EdX | 15 weeks | INR 7445 |
| Backyard Astronomy – An Introduction to Stargazing | Astronomyonline.org | 25 hours | INR 1500 |
Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.
BSc Astronomy Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
The research work and innovations in the field of Astronomy are never-ending. There are numerous world-class space research organizations, companies, and educational institutions that hire Astronomy students for a variety of job roles. Career opportunities for BSc in Astronomy and Astrophysics graduates are plenty around the world.
BSc Astronomy Top Jobs and Salary
For candidates' reference, here are some top BSc Astronomy job profiles in India, along with salary and other details:
| Job Profiles | Job Description | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Astrophysicists | They analyze data and stats from satellites using telescopes and other equipment. They also develop theories, identify hypotheses, and test them with their research techniques. | INR 7.9 LPA |
| Lab Technicians | Their tasks include testing samples from the space, analyzing them, and making reports. They are also responsible for maintaining lab equipment, ensuring their safety, and more. | INR 2.7 LPA |
| Assistant Processors | Assistant Professors provide learning materials to students, clear their doubts, take part in exams as invigilators, attend conferences, make reports and presentations, and more. | INR 5.6 LPA |
| Research Associates | Their primary task includes assisting Senior Researchers in their research work. Additionally, they manage research labs, and equipment, prepare reports, and so on. | INR 4.7 LPA |
| Astronomy Data Engineers | They implement data pipelines to consume, transform, and create material in graphical form. They also work with machinery. | INR 41.2 LPA |
Note: The average salary information is taken from Ambitionbox.com and hence may vary.
BSc Astronomy topics you might be interested in:
Job Options after BSc Degree – Know Salary Packages
BSc Astronomy Top Recruiters
The scope of BSc Astronomy is wide and bright in India and other nations. Students can seek employment in a variety of industries including Aerospace, Research, Education, MNCs, etc. Here are some top recruiting companies in India that hire BSc Astronomy graduates for multiple roles:
| BSc Astronomy Top Recruiters |
||
|---|---|---|
| Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) | Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) | Technology Information, Forecasting and Assessment Council (TIFAC) |
| Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram | Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) | Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) |
| National Centre for Radio Astrophysics - Tata Institute of Fundamental Research | Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) | Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES) |
Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.
BSc Astronomy topics you might be interested in:
Q: Which are the top recruiting companies for Astronomy?
Here are some top companies in India that hire Astronomy students for different job roles:
- 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)
Q: What are the areas of recruitment for B.Sc Astronomy graduates?
Students with a BSc in Astronomy and Astrophysics degree can work for a variety of industries including:
- Engineering
- Manufacturing
- Energy
- Finance
- Medicine
- Space
- Research
- Education
BSc Astronomy Course FAQs
Candidates can refer to this section for BSc Astronomy Course FAQs.
Q: Are there any skills required to pursue Astronomy courses?
Astronomy needs a lot of skills and expertise in the field-related concepts. The ability to solve complicated problems, conduct research, analyse data, Maths, Physics and knowledge in basic Scientific subjects are the most important capabilities.
- Physics Knowledge
- Computer Programming
- Data Analysis
- Critical Thinking
- Problem-Solving
- Research Skills
- Attention to Detail
- Communication Skills
Q: Which are the best BSc Astronomy colleges in India?
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.
Popular BSc Astronomy Colleges in India
#203 QS World University Rankings
Popular Private BSc Astronomy Colleges in India
#20 NIRF
Science Applications open. Apply Now
Science Applications open. Apply Now
#145 India Today
Course Cutoffs
4
| College | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Stephen's College, University of Delhi | – / – | – / – | 687 |
| College | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| IISER Berhampur - Indian Institute of Science Education & Research | – / – | – / – | 4484 |
| IISER Pune - Indian Institute of Science Education & Research | 534 | 717 | – / – |
News & Updates
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 3 weeks ago
As a BSc in Astronomy and Astrophysics graduate, you'll have a plenty of career opportunities in both private and government sectors around the world. You can even get the chance to work in the world-class research organizations like ISRO, NASA, BARC, etc., with popular Scientists.
Astronomy is also
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 3 weeks ago
Students with a BSc in Astronomy and Astrophysics degree can work for a variety of industries including:
- Engineering
- Manufacturing
- Energy
- Finance
- Medicine
- Space
- Research
- Education
G
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 months ago
Here are some top Astronomy college options offering great placement opportunities:
| Astronomy College | Average Package Offered |
|---|---|
| Lucknow3 University | INR 9 - 14.4 LPA |
| Lucknow33 Indore | INR 10 LPA |
| Lucknow34 Bahra University | INR 6.25 LPA |
| Lucknow37 Dehradun | INR 6 LPA |
Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body and may vary.
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Astronomy is a very broad field of Science divided into 4 categories: Astrophysics, Astrochemistry, Astrobiology, and Astrogeology. They require strong basics in Physics, Mathematics, and skills to analyse data and develop theoretical models. Below are some of the degrees under Astronomy.
- B.Sc. in A
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Usually there's no age criteria for degree courses, however, given below exams may require you to be within a specific age:
- 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): Student
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
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,
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Astronomy needs a lot of skills and expertise in the field-related concepts. The ability to solve complicated problems, conduct research, analyse data, Maths, Physics and knowledge in basic Scientific subjects are the most important capabilities.
- Physics Knowledge
- Computer Programming
- Data Analysis
- Crit
A
Contributor-Level 10
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Is it worth pursuing B.Sc in Astronomy and Astrophysics?