# 2026-2027 Course Catalog
**Source**: https://catalog.illinois.edu/undergraduate/las/astronomy-bslas/
**Parent**: https://catalog.illinois.edu/undergraduate/
*for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts & Sciences in Astronomy*
---
The LAS major in **Astronomy** is a flexible program for students who are fascinated by the cosmos and plan to pursue technical or professional careers in areas requiring a solid grounding in physical science and mathematics. It is based upon both a broad and an in-depth exploration into [astronomy](https://astro.illinois.edu/) and allied disciplines, and is flexible enough to be paired with many other majors or minors.
**STEM designated\*; BSLAS Degree (Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts & Sciences)**
The Astronomy Department undergraduate program also includes majors in [Astrophysics](https://catalog.illinois.edu/undergraduate/las/astrophysics-bslas/), [Computer Science + Astronomy](https://catalog.illinois.edu/undergraduate/eng_las/computer-science-astronomy-bs/), and [Astronomy + Data Science](https://catalog.illinois.edu/undergraduate/las/astronomy-data-science-bslas/), as well as a [minor in Astronomy](https://catalog.illinois.edu/undergraduate/las/minors/astronomy/).
## Astrophysics Major
[Astrophysics](https://catalog.illinois.edu/undergraduate/las/astrophysics-bslas/), the study of how the universe works by applying the methods and principles of physics, is the cornerstone of modern astronomy. Students majoring in Astrophysics must complete advanced coursework in both astronomy and physics, allowing them to demonstrate the rigorous preparation necessary for graduate study in astronomy/astrophysics, physics, and planetary and space sciences.\
**STEM designated\*; BSLAS Degree (Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts & Sciences)**
## Computer Science + Astronomy Major
The LAS major in [Computer Science + Astronomy](https://catalog.illinois.edu/undergraduate/eng_las/computer-science-astronomy-bs/) is a flexible program for students who wish to combine a solid grounding in computer science with technical knowledge of astronomy. This blended curriculum helps develop a unique approach to problem solving and offers novel perspectives in interdisciplinary work, such as data visualization, data mining, astrophysical simulations, and image processing.\
**STEM designated\*; BSLAS Degree (Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts & Sciences)**
## Astronomy + Data Science Major
The [Astronomy + Data Science](https://catalog.illinois.edu/undergraduate/las/astronomy-data-science-bslas/) major incorporates simultaneously a strong foundation in Data Science and Astronomy to develop an appreciation and understanding of how big data is transforming science. Graduates of the Astronomy + Data Science program will have gained experience working with modern large data sets using current computational and statistical methods, with a strong grounding in data curation and ethics.\
**STEM designated\*; BSLAS Degree (Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts & Sciences)**
## Astronomy Minor
The [minor in astronomy](https://catalog.illinois.edu/undergraduate/las/minors/astronomy/) is designed to broaden the student's knowledge of science and our place in the universe. The minor in Astronomy will benefit especially those students who are eager to learn astronomy but who do not anticipate it to be their career. The Astronomy minor is also suitable for students who intend to pursue careers in areas that may benefit from a good knowledge of astronomy such as the aerospace industry, science writing, scientific journalism, or science teaching in schools.
## **QUESTIONS?**
To get answers to your questions about our undergraduate programs in astronomy or to schedule a visit, contact [Astronomy Advising](mailto:advising@astro.illinois.edu).
*for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts & Sciences in Astronomy*
---
**Departmental distinction:** A student majoring in astronomy may earn distinction or high distinction by attaining a minimum grade point average of 3.4 or 3.75, respectively, in required major courses (defined in the table below) taken at Illinois. For highest distinction, in addition to meeting the minimum requirements for high distinction, a senior thesis ([ASTR 490](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20490 "ASTR 490")) must be completed with strong endorsement by the research supervisor. Questions about eligibility for distinction status should be directed to an astronomy advisor before the senior year.
**Graduation Requirements**
Minimum hours required for graduation: 120 hours.
Minimum required major and supporting course work normally equates to 48-51 hours. Twelve hours of 300- and 400-level in the major must be taken on this campus.
**University Requirements**
Minimum of 40 hours of upper-division coursework, generally at the 300- or 400-level. These hours can be drawn from all elements of the degree. Students should consult their academic advisor for additional guidance in fulfilling this requirement.
The university and residency requirements can be found in the [Student Code](https://studentcode.illinois.edu/article3/part8/3-801/) (§ 3-801) and in the [Academic Catalog](http://catalog.illinois.edu/general-information/degree-general-education-requirements/).
**General Education Requirements**
Follows the [campus General Education (Gen Ed) requirements](https://courses.illinois.edu/gened/DEFAULT/DEFAULT). Some Gen Ed requirements may be met by courses required and/or electives in the program.
Course List
| Code | Title | Hours |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Composition I | | 4-6 |
| Advanced Composition | | 3 |
| Humanities & the Arts (6 hours) | | 6 |
| Natural Sciences & Technology (6 hours) | | 6 |
| fulfilled by [PHYS 211](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=PHYS%20211 "PHYS 211"), [PHYS 212](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=PHYS%20212 "PHYS 212") | | |
| Social & Behavioral Sciences (6 hours) | | 6 |
| Cultural Studies: Non-Western Cultures (1 course) | | 3 |
| Cultural Studies: US Minority Cultures (1 course) | | 3 |
| Cultural Studies: Western/Comparative Cultures (1 course) | | 3 |
| Quantitative Reasoning (2 courses, at least one course must be Quantitative Reasoning I) | | 6-10 |
| fulfilled by [MATH 220](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=MATH%20220 "MATH 220") or [MATH 221](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=MATH%20221 "MATH 221"); and [MATH 231](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=MATH%20231 "MATH 231"), [MATH 241](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=MATH%20241 "MATH 241"), [PHYS 211](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=PHYS%20211 "PHYS 211"), [PHYS 212](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=PHYS%20212 "PHYS 212") | | |
| Language Requirement (Completion of the fourth semester or equivalent of a language other than English is required) | | 0-20 |
Course List
| Code | Title | Hours |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Orientation and Professional Development | | |
| [LAS 101](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=LAS%20101 "LAS 101") | Design Your First Year Experience | 1 |
| OR | | |
| [LAS 100](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=LAS%20100 "LAS 100") & [LAS 101](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=LAS%20101 "LAS 101") | Success in LAS for International Students and Design Your First Year Experience | 3 |
| OR | | |
| [LAS 102](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=LAS%20102 "LAS 102") | Transfer Advantage | 1 |
| Total Hours | | 1 or 3 |
Course List
| Code | Title | Hours |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Astronomy Core | | |
| [ASTR 210](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20210 "ASTR 210") | Introduction to Astrophysics (Students without a background in physics or astronomy are encouraged to take ASTR121 and ASTR122 during their freshman year.) | 3 |
| [ASTR 310](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20310 "ASTR 310") | Computing in Astronomy | 3 |
| Select three of the following: | | 9-10 |
| [ASTR 404](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20404 "ASTR 404") | Stellar Astrophysics | |
| [ASTR 405](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20405 "ASTR 405") | Planetary Systems | |
| [ASTR 406](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20406 "ASTR 406") | Galaxies and the Universe | |
| [ASTR 414](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20414 "ASTR 414") | Astronomical Techniques | |
| Select at least an additional 9 hours of 300- or 400-level ASTR or PHYS courses (Other 300- or 400-level technical classes, e.g. chemistry, computer science engineering, or statistics can be substituted with academic adviser approval. Additionally, a maximum of 4 hours of credit in [ASTR 390](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20390 "ASTR 390") (or equivalent "Independent Study" course, such as [PHYS 497](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=PHYS%20497 "PHYS 497")) can be counted towards this requirement.) | | 9 |
| Supporting Technical Courses | | |
| Physics | | 12 |
| [PHYS 211](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=PHYS%20211 "PHYS 211") | University Physics: Mechanics | |
| [PHYS 212](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=PHYS%20212 "PHYS 212") | University Physics: Elec & Mag | |
| [PHYS 213](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=PHYS%20213 "PHYS 213") | Univ Physics: Thermal Physics | |
| [PHYS 214](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=PHYS%20214 "PHYS 214") | Univ Physics: Quantum Physics | |
| Mathematics | | 11 |
| [MATH 221](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=MATH%20221 "MATH 221") | Calculus I ([MATH 220](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=MATH%20220 "MATH 220") may be substituted for [MATH 221](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=MATH%20221 "MATH 221"). [MATH 220](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=MATH%20220 "MATH 220") is appropriate for students with no background in calculus.) | |
| [MATH 231](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=MATH%20231 "MATH 231") | Calculus II | |
| [MATH 241](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=MATH%20241 "MATH 241") | Calculus III | |
| Total Hours | | 47-48 |
*for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts & Sciences in Astronomy*
---
## **Sample Sequence**
*This sample sequence is intended to be used only as a guide for degree completion. All students should work individually with their academic advisors to decide the actual course selection and sequence that works best for them based on their academic preparation and goals. Enrichment programming such as study abroad, minors, internships, and so on may impact the structure of this four-year plan. Course availability is not guaranteed during the semester indicated in the sample sequence.*
*Students must fulfill their Language Other Than English requirement by successfully completing a fourth level of a language other than English. See the corresponding section on the [Degree and General Education Requirements page](https://catalog.illinois.edu/general-information/degree-general-education-requirements/)**.*
| First Year | |
| --- | --- |
| First Semester | Hours |
| [LAS 101](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=LAS%20101 "LAS 101") | 1 |
| [MATH 220](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=MATH%20220 "MATH 220") or [221](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=MATH%20221 "MATH 221") | 5 |
| Language Other Than English (3rd level) | 4 |
| Composition I or General Education course | 4 |
| Free Elective course | 1 |
| | 15 |
| Total Hours 15 | |
| First Year | |
| --- | --- |
| Second Semester | Hours |
| [MATH 231](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=MATH%20231 "MATH 231") | 3 |
| [PHYS 211](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=PHYS%20211 "PHYS 211") | 4 |
| Language Other Than English (4th level) | 4 |
| General Education course or Composition I | 3 |
| | 14 |
| Total Hours 14 | |
| Second Year | |
| --- | --- |
| First Semester | Hours |
| [MATH 241](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=MATH%20241 "MATH 241") | 4 |
| [PHYS 212](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=PHYS%20212 "PHYS 212") | 4 |
| General Education course | 3 |
| General Education course | 3 |
| Free Elective course | 1 |
| | 15 |
| Total Hours 15 | |
| Second Year | |
| --- | --- |
| Second Semester | Hours |
| [ASTR 210](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20210 "ASTR 210") | 3 |
| [PHYS 213](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=PHYS%20213 "PHYS 213") | 2 |
| [PHYS 214](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=PHYS%20214 "PHYS 214") | 2 |
| General Education course | 3 |
| General Education course | 3 |
| Free Elective course | 3 |
| | 16 |
| Total Hours 16 | |
| Third Year | |
| --- | --- |
| First Semester | Hours |
| [ASTR 310](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20310 "ASTR 310") | 3 |
| Advanced ASTR Elective | 3 |
| General Education course | 3 |
| General Education course | 3 |
| Free Elective course | 3 |
| | 15 |
| Total Hours 15 | |
| Third Year | |
| --- | --- |
| Second Semester | Hours |
| [ASTR 404](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20404 "ASTR 404"), [405](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20405 "ASTR 405"), [406](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20406 "ASTR 406"), or [414](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20414 "ASTR 414") | 3 |
| Advanced ASTR Elective | 3 |
| General Education Course | 3 |
| Free Elective course | 3 |
| Free Elective course | 3 |
| | 15 |
| Total Hours 15 | |
| Fourth Year | |
| --- | --- |
| First Semester | Hours |
| [ASTR 404](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20404 "ASTR 404"), [405](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20405 "ASTR 405"), [406](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20406 "ASTR 406"), or [414](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20414 "ASTR 414") | 3 |
| Advanced ASTR Elective | 3 |
| Free Elective course | 3 |
| Free Elective course | 3 |
| Free Elective course | 3 |
| | 15 |
| Total Hours 15 | |
| Fourth Year | |
| --- | --- |
| Second Semester | Hours |
| [ASTR 404](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20404 "ASTR 404"), [405](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20405 "ASTR 405"), [406](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20406 "ASTR 406"), or [414](https://catalog.illinois.edu/search/?P=ASTR%20414 "ASTR 414") | 3 |
| Free Elective course | 3 |
| Free Elective course | 3 |
| Free Elective course | 3 |
| Free Elective course | 3 |
| | 15 |
| Total Hours 15 | |
**Total Hours: 120**
*for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts & Sciences in Astronomy*
---
Undergraduate Astronomy majors will graduate with a demonstrated ability to:
1. LO1. Understand the hierarchical architecture of the cosmos, increasing in scale from the Solar System to the Galaxy to the Universe, and decreasing in scale to atoms and their nuclei. Understand the interplay among these scales.
2. LO2. Define and use fundamental principles and techniques of astronomy and astrophysics.
1. Identify which principles should be applied to a specified situation
2. Show familiarity with astronomical observables and their physical origin.
3. Understand and apply basic physics and computational techniques to solve problems in astrophysics, and interpret the results.
3. LO3. Analyze astronomical data, and quantitative data generally.
1. Demonstrate the ability to link observation and theory.
2. Demonstrate the ability to draw qualitative conclusions from quantitative information, and vice versa.
3. Demonstrate the ability to plan observational programs, use astronomical telescopes and instrumentation, and to analyze and present astronomical data.
4. LO4. Plan and perform guided research, or attain an advanced-level understanding of a topic of contemporary interest in astronomy and astrophysics.
5. LO5. Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
*for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts & Sciences in Astronomy*
---
## **Astronomy**
[Astronomy website](https://astro.illinois.edu/)\
[Astronomy Undergraduate Programs](https://astro.illinois.edu/academics/undergraduate-program)\
[astronomy@illinois.edu](mailto:astronomy@illinois.edu)\
[Astronomy faculty](https://astro.illinois.edu/directory/faculty)
## **College of Liberal Arts & Sciences**
[LAS College website](https://las.illinois.edu/)
### **Advising**
[advising@astro.illinois.edu](mailto:advising@astro.illinois.edu)\
[College of LAS Advising](https://las.illinois.edu/academics/advising/college)
## **Admissions**
[Liberal Arts & Sciences Admissions & Requirements](https://catalog.illinois.edu/schools/las/academic-units/)\
[University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Undergrad Admissions](https://www.admissions.illinois.edu/)