Overview

The Astronomy B.Sc. at the University of Southern California offers a robust academic foundation for students aiming to enter the field of space sciences and astrophysics. This rigorous curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory experience to prepare graduates for the complexities of modern astronomical research.

By integrating advanced mathematical techniques with fundamental physical principles, the programme ensures that students develop the analytical skills necessary for scientific discovery. The course structure is specifically tailored to meet the needs of future astronomers, providing a deep dive into the mechanics of the universe.

Why Astronomy at the University of Southern California?

Studying at this institution provides access to a distinguished faculty and a curriculum that bridges the gap between classical physics and modern space exploration. The university offers a dedicated Physics Discovery Series, allowing students to engage with contemporary scientific challenges early in their academic journey.

The department emphasises a transition from foundational principles to advanced research topics, ensuring students are well-versed in both the theoretical and experimental aspects of the discipline. Facilities include specialised senior laboratories where students conduct high-level experiments to conclude their undergraduate studies.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 73260 per year
National fee: USD 73260 per year
Local fee: USD 73260 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to provide a logical progression from mathematical foundations to complex astrophysical phenomena. Modules may include:

Lower-Division Requirements

Calculus
Mathematics of Physics and Engineering
Advanced Principles of Physics
Physics Discovery Series

Upper-Division Requirements

The Solar System
Galaxies and Large-Scale Structures in the Universe
Cosmology
Stellar Astrophysics
Mechanics
Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics
Electricity and Magnetism
Quantum Mechanics and its Applications
Senior Lab

Careers with Astronomy

Graduates of this programme are primarily prepared for professional careers within the field of astronomy and space sciences. The rigorous mathematical and analytical training also opens doors to various technical roles in research institutions, aerospace organisations, and governmental space agencies.

Many students choose to continue their education through postgraduate research, focusing on specialised areas such as cosmology, planetary science, or stellar evolution. The skills acquired in data analysis and computational physics are highly transferable to industries such as satellite communications and data science.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Physics
Calculus
Mathematics of Physics and Engineering
The Solar System
Galaxies
Mechanics
Electricity and Magnetism
Cosmology

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-10 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

130

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TOEFL^® IBT

100

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Los Angeles, United States

Disciplines

Astronomy & Space Sciences View 249 other Bachelors in Astronomy & Space Sciences in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

130

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Official Test Scores
Transcripts: First-year applicants should submit official transcripts of all high school and college coursework completed.
Letter(s) of Recommendation: One letter is required from either your school counselor or a teacher from your school. Applicants to the School of Cinematic Arts must submit three letters of recommendation.
Portfolio, resumé and/or additional writing samples: if required by major. Performance majors may also require auditions. Refer to the Additional Application Requirements section, below, for more information.
Submit your fall grades (when available)

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

73260 USD / year

≈ 73260 USD / year
Out-of-State

73260 USD / year

≈ 73260 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

73260 USD / year

≈ 73260 USD / year

Living costs

Los Angeles

United States

1520 - 2570 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Astronomy.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Los Angeles

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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