Program Overview
The Master of Science in Astronomy program at UNLV prepares students for careers in astronomy or astrophysics research, as well as teaching at the university level. Students can choose between a coursework-based option or a thesis option, and the program offers a variety of teaching methods and research opportunities. Graduates go on to successful careers in a variety of fields, including astrophysics research, astronomy education, and data analysis.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Science in Astronomy program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) prepares students for careers in Astronomy or Astrophysics Research, as well as for teaching at the university level. The program is customized for each student by their advisor and advising committee. Students can choose between two options: a coursework M.S., where they take graduate-level classes in Astronomy and pass an exam; or a thesis option, where they learn to formulate, conduct, and report on research.
Objectives:
- Understand astrophysics at the graduate level
- Understand either classical mechanics, quantum theory, or electromagnetic theory at the graduate level
- Understand mathematical physics at the graduate level
- Understand observational astronomy techniques
- Understand astrophysics of gaseous nebulae and active galactic nuclei, and high energy astrophysics
- Understand cosmology at the graduate level
- Understand stellar atmospheres and the interstellar medium
- Perform a graduate research project at the doctoral level
- Communicate scientific research to a scientific audience
- Possess a strong background of knowledge and expertise in physics and astronomy
Outline:
The Master of Science in Astronomy program at UNLV includes the following courses:
Thesis Track
- Required Courses (24 credits): 24 credits of 600- or 700-level AST or PHYS courses, or other advisor-approved courses
- Thesis (6 credits): PHYS 797 - Thesis
- Degree Requirements:
- Complete a minimum of 30 graduate credits
- Complete a minimum of 15 credits (excluding thesis) in 700-level astronomy or physics courses
- Maintain a GPA of 3.00 or better in all course work
- Organize a thesis committee of at least three departmental members, along with a Graduate College Representative
Non-Thesis Track
- Required Courses (6 credits):
- AST 713 - Astrophysics I
- AST 714 - Astrophysics II
- Core Courses (6 credits): Complete two of the following courses:
- AST 710 - Observational Astronomy Techniques
- AST 721 - Astrophysics of Gaseous Nebulae and Active Galactic Nuclei
- AST 723 - Astrophysical Fluids
- AST 725 - High Energy Astrophysics
- AST 727 - Cosmology
- AST 729 - Galaxies
- AST 747 - Interstellar Medium
- PHYS 771 - Advanced Topics in Experimental and Theoretical Physics
- Elective Courses (18 credits): 18 credits of 600- or 700-level AST or PHYS courses, or other advisor-approved courses
- Degree Requirements:
- Complete a minimum of 30 graduate level credits in physics, astronomy, or related fields (excluding graduate seminar)
- Complete at least 15 credits of 700-level astronomy or physics courses
- Maintain a GPA of 3.00 or better in all course work
- Organize an advisory committee of at least three departmental members, along with a Graduate College Representative
- Pass a qualifying examination on graduate astronomy knowledge at the master's level
Assessment:
- Thesis defense
- Qualifying examination (for non-thesis track)
- Coursework grades
Teaching:
The Master of Science in Astronomy program at UNLV is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are actively engaged in research in their fields. The program offers a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, seminars, and laboratory work. Students also have the opportunity to work with their advisors on research projects.
Careers:
Graduates of the Master of Science in Astronomy program at UNLV go on to successful careers in a variety of fields, including:
- Astrophysics Research
- Astronomy Education
- Data Analysis
- Computer Modeling
- Data Measurement
- High Technology
- Scientific Leadership
- Writing/Communication
- Mathematical Expertise
- Critical Thinking/Analytical Reasoning
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Overview:
University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) is a public research university located in the heart of Las Vegas, Nevada. It is known for its diverse student body, innovative academic programs, and its unique location in a vibrant and dynamic city.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
UNLV offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can expect to find a welcoming community with a strong sense of belonging. The university boasts a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and activities, catering to various interests. UNLV also emphasizes the importance of community engagement and provides opportunities for students to connect with the local community.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Diverse and Inclusive Environment:
UNLV prides itself on its diverse student body, with one-third of students being first-generation college attendees. This creates a welcoming and inclusive environment for students from various backgrounds.Unique Location:
Situated in Las Vegas, UNLV offers students access to a vibrant city with numerous cultural, entertainment, and professional opportunities.Innovative Academics:
UNLV offers a wide range of academic programs, including 78 majors, 84 minors, and over 197 graduate degree and certificate programs. The university also boasts its own law, medicine, and dental medicine schools.Strong Community Engagement:
UNLV encourages students to engage with the local community and provides opportunities for service learning and volunteer work.Academic Programs:
UNLV offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts and Sciences:
Humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics.Business:
Accounting, finance, marketing, management, and entrepreneurship.Education:
Teacher education, educational leadership, and special education.Engineering:
Civil, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering.Health Sciences:
Nursing, medicine, dentistry, public health, and biomedical sciences.Hospitality:
Hospitality management, tourism management, and culinary arts.Law:
Juris Doctor (JD) degree.Fine Arts:
Music, theatre, dance, and visual arts.Other:
UNLV is a relatively young university, established in 1957. It has grown significantly over the years and is now one of the largest universities in Nevada. The university is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, focusing on areas such as healthcare, technology, and sustainability.
Entry Requirements:
- Applicants must have a regionally accredited or equivalent undergraduate degree in Physics, Astronomy or other related area.
- Applicants must have a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.75 for all undergraduate work or a minimum 3.00 GPA for the last two years of undergraduate work.
- Applicants must have completed 18 semester credits of upper-division physics.
- Applicants must submit a letter of intent.
- Three letters of recommendation – at least one from an individual familiar with the applicant's academic performance and potential for degree completion. These letters of recommendation will be requested by and must be submitted through the Graduate College online application system.
