MA/MS in Astronomy and Astrophysics

Graduate study in astronomy at San Diego State leads to a Master of Science and totals thirty units. Applicants name a plan for finishing the degree, and a student who changes direction later can move from one plan to another once enrolled. At least half of the units have to come from courses that the department designates for advanced graduate-level work, which keeps the transcript centered on the discipline rather than on loosely related electives. The home department also teaches undergraduates, so graduate students share the building and faculty with a wider astronomy community. Observational work is supported by the Mount Laguna Observatory, a facility the department runs for teaching and research. Prospective students should consult the department for the plan options, application steps, and the specific course requirements that apply to their chosen route through the degree.