Overview

The Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences program of the University of Colorado at Boulder also offer hands-on experience with telescopes, optics, instrumentation, computer image processing and computer modeling. These skills are useful for students wishing to pursue graduate degrees or careers in aerospace, technical or computer industries. The University of Colorado is recognized as a top university in the exploration and study of space.

Tracks

Interdisciplinary Emphasis

The interdisciplinary emphasis highlights the science of astronomy, observation and technology. In this path of the major, students receive core training in astronomy, mathematics, physics and computational and instrumental technology. These skills prepare students for professions in space sciences and a range of other careers in education, science and technology.

This path of the astrophysical and planetary sciences major is also designed to provide opportunities for students to explore a minor or second major in a complementary area of study. Students are mentored in groups during the first 2–3 semesters, but meet individually with an APS faculty member every semester thereafter to discuss their academic progress and post-graduation plans.

Physics Emphasis

The physics emphasis shares the same foundational astronomy, math and physics course sequences as the interdisciplinary emphasis for the first two semesters, but then focuses on more advanced work in these topics. Students may declare this option when beginning their coursework, or wait until completion of their foundational courses in astronomy, physics and mathematics (usually after the first two-three semesters).

This option is jointly administered with the Department of Physics and requires substantial upper-division work in this field. Upon graduation, students should have solid theoretical and applied training for careers or graduate studies in the space sciences. For more detailed information, visit the department website.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

General Physics

Concepts in Astrophysics

Ancient Astronomies of the World

Modern Cosmology-Origin and Structure of the Universe

Space Astronomy and Exploration

The Search for Life in the Universe

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-20 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

120

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

121 SCH

121-123

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Boulder, United States

Disciplines

Astronomy & Space Sciences View 250 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

120

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TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

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98 accuracy using real exam data
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Other requirements

General requirements

Application

Application fee ($65 for domestic applicants, $70 for international applicants

Personal Essay (required, 250–650 words)

Letter of recommendation

High school or secondary school transcripts

In addition to the general admission requirements, all international applicants are required to meet a minimum standard of English proficiency.

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

50356 USD / year

≈ 50356 USD / year
Out-of-State

48378 USD / year

≈ 48378 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

18542 USD / year

≈ 18542 USD / year

Living costs

Boulder

United States

950 - 1350 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 Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences.

Available Scholarships

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

About

Overview

Tracks

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

Boulder

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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