Master of Science in Astronomy & Astrophysics
Program Overview
San Francisco State University's Master of Science in Astronomy & Astrophysics provides a comprehensive understanding of advanced astronomy and astrophysics concepts, emphasizing theoretical and observational aspects. The program aims to develop graduates with strong analytical and research skills, effective communication abilities, and a deep grasp of fundamental physical principles for careers in academia, research, or related industries. Students can choose from a range of electives and culminate their studies through a project, comprehensive oral examination, or master's thesis.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Science in Astronomy & Astrophysics program at San Francisco State University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of advanced concepts in astronomy and astrophysics. The program emphasizes theoretical and observational aspects of the field, equipping students with the skills necessary for independent research and future careers in academia, research institutions, or related industries.
Objectives:
The program aims to develop graduates who can:
- Analyze and model physical systems: Students will be able to analyze real-world physical systems, develop simplified models, translate physical principles into mathematics, and apply mathematical tools to determine a system's spatiotemporal evolution.
- Demonstrate proficiency in laboratory skills: Students will gain experience with basic laboratory skills and experimental techniques, including electronics, lasers, sensors, detectors, microscopes, and telescopes, while adhering to appropriate safety practices.
- Apply the scientific method: Students will learn to formulate testable hypotheses, design experiments, analyze data, and communicate results effectively within the scientific community.
- Develop communication skills: Students will enhance their writing, speaking, and visual data presentation skills to communicate science effectively to various audiences.
- Collaborate effectively: Students will develop social and communication skills to effectively participate in diverse scientific teams.
- Engage communities: Graduates will be prepared to address current and emerging scientific and technological challenges in equitable and environmentally sustainable ways.
Outline:
The program comprises 30 units of coursework, distributed as follows:
Core Requirements (15 units):
- ASTR 722: Radiative Processes in Astrophysics (3 units)
- ASTR 742: Galaxies and Cosmology (3 units)
- ASTR 770: Observational Techniques in Astronomy Research (3 units)
- ASTR 897: Research (1 unit per semester, up to 3 units)
- PHYS 701: Classical Mechanics (3 units) or other similar graduate supervision courses (ASTR 899, PHYS 890, PHYS 891, PHYS 897, PHYS 899).
Culminating Experience (0-3 units):
Students can choose one of the following options:
- ASTR 895: Culminating Project (3 units): Independent project under faculty supervision, leading to a written report and oral defense.
- ASTR 896EXM: Comprehensive Oral Examination (0 units): Comprehensive oral examination on core topics in astronomy and astrophysics.
- ASTR 898: Master's Thesis (3 units): Independent research under faculty supervision, leading to a written thesis and oral defense.
Graduate Physics and Astronomy Electives (6 units):
Students choose from graduate PHYS and ASTR courses numbered 700 to 799, with recommendations including:
- ASTR 700: Stellar Astrophysics (3 units)
- ASTR 798: Astronomy Research Literature (3 units)
- PHYS 712: Physics of Plasmas (3 units)
- PHYS 725: Special and General Relativity (3 units)
- PHYS 740: Computational Physics (3 units)
- PHYS 775: Statistical Mechanics (3 units)
- PHYS 785: Theoretical Physics (3 units)
General Electives (6-9 units):
Advanced upper-division or graduate courses in physics, astronomy, or related subjects, selected with advisement and approved by the Graduate Coordinator.
- Students choosing ASTR 896EXM for their culminating experience must complete 9 units of electives.
- Students choosing ASTR 895 or ASTR 898 for their culminating experience must complete 6 units of electives.
- No additional supervision units are allowed.
- Maximum of 3 units in related fields outside physics & astronomy.
- PHYS 885 (Inclusive Pedagogy for the Physical Sciences) is recommended for students planning to be Graduate Teaching Assistants (GTAs).
Credit/No Credit Policy:
- Major core classes (ASTR 722, ASTR 742, ASTR 770, PHYS 701) and the 6 units of Graduate Physics and Astronomy Electives must be taken for letter grades (except in extraordinary circumstances with approval).
Teaching:
The program mentions that students will have the opportunity to participate in graduate supervision courses and research projects. It also encourages students to attend department colloquia.
Careers:
The program aims to prepare students for careers in:
- Academia: Research positions in universities and research institutions.
- Research: Positions in research institutions, government agencies, and private industries.
- Related industries: Careers in fields like space exploration, scientific instrumentation, and science communication.
Other:
- Students whose GPA is slightly below 3.0 may be able to petition the Division of Graduate Studies to allow their application.
- Students who attended foreign universities where English was not the primary language of instruction must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores.
- Students admitted to the program are initially given "conditionally classified" status and must meet certain conditions within their first year to advance to candidacy for the M.S. degree. These conditions include satisfying Writing Proficiency Level 1 and passing Physics & Astronomy Placement Tests.
- Students must attend at least five department colloquia per semester, unless excused by the Graduate Coordinator.
- The written project report for ASTR 895 or the written Master's Thesis for ASTR 898 will satisfy the graduate Writing Proficiency Level 2 requirement. Students choosing ASTR 896EXM will need to submit an additional writing assignment to satisfy this requirement.
- Advancement to Candidacy (ATC) and Proposal for Culminating Experience (PCE) forms must be approved by the Division of Graduate Studies before registration for a culminating experience class.
San Francisco State University
Overview:
San Francisco State University (SF State) is a public university located in San Francisco, California. It is part of the California State University (CSU) system, the largest system of higher education in the country. SF State is known for its diverse and inclusive community, offering a wide range of academic programs and a strong commitment to social justice.
Services Offered:
The university provides a variety of services to support student success, including:
Academic advising:
Students receive guidance on course selection, degree planning, and career exploration.Student support services:
SF State offers resources for students facing academic challenges, personal difficulties, or financial hardship.Career services:
The university provides assistance with resume writing, job searching, and career development.Health and wellness services:
Students have access to counseling, health care, and other wellness resources.Student Life and Campus Experience:
SF State offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can:
Engage in student organizations:
There are numerous clubs, organizations, and activities to join, catering to diverse interests.Participate in cultural events:
The university hosts a variety of events, performances, and exhibitions throughout the year.Explore the Bay Area:
SF State's location in the heart of the Bay Area provides easy access to cultural attractions, museums, and entertainment venues.Key Reasons to Study There:
Diverse and inclusive community:
SF State prides itself on its welcoming and diverse student body, fostering a sense of belonging for all.Strong academic programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a focus on social justice and real-world application.Location in the Bay Area:
SF State's location provides access to a vibrant and dynamic city, offering opportunities for internships, networking, and career development.Commitment to social justice:
SF State is dedicated to promoting social justice and equity, providing students with the tools and knowledge to make a positive impact on the world.Academic Programs:
SF State offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts and Humanities:
Visual and performing arts, literature, history, philosophy, and more.Social Sciences:
Psychology, sociology, political science, economics, and more.Business:
Accounting, finance, marketing, management, and more.Science and Technology:
Biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, and more.Education:
Teacher preparation, educational leadership, and more.Other:
SF State has a strong athletic program, competing in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). The university also has a strong commitment to international education and exchange, offering opportunities for students to study abroad and participate in global learning experiences.
Entry Requirements:
- Academic Qualifications:
- Most students admitted to the program will have undergraduate degrees in Physics, Astronomy, Astrophysics, or very closely related fields.
- Ideal preparation includes coursework in calculus through multivariable and vector calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics and statistical physics, quantum mechanics, computer programming, an introductory survey of all of astronomy, and some coursework in stellar astronomy, galactic astronomy, and extragalactic astronomy & cosmology.
- Students with undergraduate degrees outside of Physics, Astronomy, Astrophysics, or related fields are welcome.
- However, students from such non-STEM backgrounds must have completed calculus through multivariable and vector calculus and had a thorough calculus-based introductory survey of all of physics.
- Overall GPA or the GPA in the last 60 units of study should be at least 3.0.
- The GPA in mathematics and physics courses should also be at least 3.0.
- Other Requirements:
- Two letters of recommendation from faculty who know your academic record and potential for independent research.
- A statement of purpose describing your interest in pursuing graduate study in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at SFSU.
- Students whose GPA is slightly below 3.0 should contact the department in advance of applying.
- Students who attended foreign universities in which English was not the primary language of instruction will be required to submit results of the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE.
- GRE Requirement: We do not require the GRE General or Subject Tests.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- Students who attended foreign universities in which English was not the primary language of instruction will be required to submit results of the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE.
