About the Program
Geosciences Department
160 Science and Math Complex
(716) 878-6731
geosciences.buffalostate.edu/
The astronomy minor program allows students to expand their interest in outer space and celestial bodies into a richly rewarding, lifelong vocation. This program may provide a Physics student with the initial knowledge base for a career in astronomy or help prepare a student interested in Science Secondary Education for a career in Planetarium Education. The program is supported by the Whitworth Ferguson Planetarium.
Learning Outcomes
Students will:
1. demonstrate knowledge of fundamental concepts and principles of Astronomy
2. demonstrate critical thinking skills in Astronomy
3. be able to collect, analyze and interpret astronomical information and data
Program Requirements
Required Courses (3 credit hours)
GES 131 INTRODUCTORY ASTRONOMY 3
Electives (15 credit hours)
Select one of the following options: 15
Elective Option 1
GES 331 MODERN SOLAR SYSTEM ASTRONOMY
GES 332 STELLAR AND GALACTIC ASTRONOMY
GES 335 METHODS OF OBSERVATIONAL ASTRONOMY
GES 339 ASTRONOMY AND COSMOLOGY
GES 431 PLANETARIUM SEMINAR
Elective Option 2
Three courses from the list above AND an approved sequence in Physics, either PHY 107/PHY 108 (6 credit hours) or PHY 111/PHY 112 (8 credit hours). Note: a single Physics course cannot be applied to the minor.
Total Credit Hours 18