Astronomy (ASTR)College of Computer, Mathematical and Physical Sciences1204 Computer and Space Sciences Building, 301-405-3001 www.astro.umd.edu astr-grad@deans.umd.edu Chair: S. Vogel Director: J. Trasco Professors: M. A'Hearn, D. Hamilton, J. Harrington, A. Harris, L. Mundy, E. Ostriker, K. Papadopoulos, W. Rose, S. Veilleux Associate Professors: S. McGaugh, M. Miller, C. Reynolds, D. Richardson Assistant Professors: A. Bolatto, M. Ricotti Instructors: G. Deming Lecturers: M. Hayes-Gehrke, N. Miller, P. Romani Adjunct Professors: N. Gehrels, S. Holt, R. Mushotzky, N. White Professors Emeriti: R. Bell, J. Earl, W. Erickson, M. Leventhal, D. Wentzel Visiting Faculty: D. Neufeld The Major The Astronomy Department offers courses leading to a Bachelor of Science in Astronomy as well as a series of courses of general interest to non-majors. Astronomy majors are given a strong undergraduate preparation in Astronomy, Mathematics, and Physics. The degree program is designed to prepare students for positions in government and industry laboratories or for graduate work in Astronomy or related fields. A degree in Astronomy has also proven valuable as preparation for non-astronomical careers.Academic Programs and Departmental Facilities The Department of Astronomy is a partner in the Combined Array for Research in Millimeter-Wave Astronomy (CARMA) which operates a millimeter wavelength radio array located near Bishop, California. The array is the largest and most sensitive array of its type in the world. The Department is a partner with Kitt Peak National Observatory in the building of a large format near infrared camera for the Mayall 4-meter optical telescope. Opportunities are available for undergraduates to become involved in research with both facilities. The Department also operates a small observatory on campus. There are four fixed telescopes ranging in aperture from 20" to 7". There are also six portable 8" telescopes. This facility is used extensively for undergraduate classes. An Observatory Open House Program for the public is also run. Details are available from the Astronomy Department office.Requirements for the Major
The program requires that a grade of C or better be obtained in all courses required for the major. Students planning to double major (or to seek a double degree) in Physics and Astronomy should note that this combination does not automatically satisfy CORE Advanced Studies. They should discuss the issue with their academic advisors to assure that their program meets all degree requirements. Detailed information on typical programs and alternatives to the standard program can be found in the pamphlet entitled, Department Requirements for a Bachelor of Science Degree in Astronomy which is available from the Astronomy Department office. Requirements for the Minor A Minor in Astronomy may be earned by completing the following with grades of C or better. An appointment must be made to register for the minor before final 30 credits are taken. Pleasecontact Department for complete rules and procedures.
Honors Program The Honors Program offers students of exceptional ability and interest in Astronomy opportunities for part-time research participation which may develop into full-time summer projects. Honors students work with a faculty advisor on a research project for which academic credit may be earned. Certain graduate courses are open for credit toward the bachelor's degree. (Students are accepted into the Honors Program by the Department's Honors Committee on the basis of grade point average or recommendation of faculty.) Honors candidates submit a written proposal on their research project and enroll in ASTR 399, complete a research project, write a thesis and do an oral presentation before a committee. Satisfactory grades lead to graduation With Honors (or High Honors) in Astronomy. For Additional Information Further information about advising and the Honors Program can be obtained by calling the Department of Astronomy office at 301-405-3001. Students who have been away more than two years may find that due to curriculum changes the courses they have taken may no longer be adequate preparation for the courses required to complete the major. Students in this situation must meet with the Departmental Advisor to make appropriate plans. |