The Astronomy minor program is directed toward students who are not physics majors but who could benefit from the scientific rigor and interdisciplinary nature of astronomy. Astronomy naturally cuts across several scientific disciplines including physics, biology, chemistry, computer science and planetary science. Students with an interdisciplinary background are increasingly in high demand. In addition to excellent preparation for a variety of technical fields, students seeking involvement in science in a public capacity, e.g., teachers, science public policy advisers, or science writers, will be well prepared by the program to relate and interpret new findings to the public.

Required Courses (25 units)

ASTR 161 General Astronomy I (4)
ASTR 162 General Astronomy II (4)
PHYS 211, 212 General Physics I, II Non-calculus-based(4,4)
or
PHYS 241,242 General Physics I, II Calculus-based (4,4)
or
PHYS 251-252 Honors General Physics I, II (4,4)
ASTR 301 Cosmic Origins (3)
or
ASTR 302 Honors Cosmic Origins (3)
ASTR 371 Planetary Astronomy (3)
ASTR 470 Special Topics in Contemporary Astrophysics (3)

Students interested in pursuing the Astronomy minor should consult the Astronomy minor adviser as soon as possible in order to design an appropriate schedule. Course substitutions may be requested and must be approved by the Astronomy faculty. At least 8 upper-division units must be taken at Towson. A grade equivalent of 2.00 or higher must be earned in each course.