Graduation Information for Astronomy Majors

Astronomy majors are strongly encouraged to begin to think about graduation (and beyond) as soon as they declare the major. For the first few years of the program, the most important steps are to follow the Recommended Curriculum as closely as practical and pursue research opportunities and/or obtain other work experience. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with the faculty advisor as soon as they declare the major to discuss their plans and learn about various opportunities.

Penultimate Year

Approximately one year prior to graduation, astronomy students should make another appointment with the faculty advisor to check that they are on track for graduation, in particular that they have completed the Required Courses and discuss how to prepare for graduate school or pursue other career opportunities. Students who plan to apply for graduate school should plan to take both the Physics GRE and the General GRE the Autumn before they hope to start graduate study. As performance on the Physics GRE can have a substantial impact on graduate admissions decisions, astronomy majors are strongly encouraged to actively prepare for this test. Another important consideration at this point is whether or not to pursue an Undergraduate Thesis in Astronomy, which is a requirement for the graduation honor with research distinction in Astronomy.

Final Year

Once you begin your final year at Ohio State, students should read through the information on Graduation available from the Arts and Sciences Advising and Academic Services. One of the first steps to graduation is to meet with the astronomy faculty advisor and complete the Astronomy Major Program Form. The next step is to meet with an Arts and Sciences Advisor to file the application to graduate.

For More Information

Current and potential astronomy majors are encouraged to contact the Astronomy Department's Director of Undergraduate Studies:

Professor Paul Martini
Department of Astronomy
4021 McPherson Lab
140 West 18th Avenue
Columbus, Ohio 43210-1173
Phone: +1 614 292-8632
Email: martini.10@osu.edu