BA Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences at University of Colorado Boulder

Programme overview

The APS Department is one of the few programs to combine both astrophysics and planetary science. As a result, we provide a unified view of solar and space sciences, planetary systems (our Solar System and others), stellar and galactic astronomy, and cosmology. We also offer hands-on experience with telescopes, optics, instrumentation, computer image processing and computer modeling.

Faculty: College of Arts and Sciences | Department: Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences | Location: Boulder, CO, United States

What you will study

Students must complete a minimum of 32 credit hours in astrophysical and planetary sciences (this must include at least 18 upper-division credit hours) and a minimum of 9 credit hours in physics. Sample listed courses: ASTR 2100 Fundamental Concepts in Astrophysics; PHYS 2130 Introduction to Quantum Mechanics and Its Applications; PHYS 2170 Foundations of Modern Physics; ASTR 2000 Ancient Astronomies of the World.

Career pathways

These skills are useful for students wishing to pursue graduate degrees or careers in aerospace, technical or computer industries.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Undergraduate admission is to CU Boulder and the College of Arts and Sciences, not directly to the major; university and college admission requirements apply.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

First-year applicants may enter in fall, spring or summer: the early action deadline of 15 November and regular decision deadline of 15 January apply to fall and summer entry; the spring deadline is 1 October. Transfer applicants may enter in spring (deadline 1 October), summer (15 March) or fall (final deadline 1 June).

SAT and ACT scores are not required for first-year applicants; scores may be self-reported if the applicant wants them considered.

First-year deadlines: spring 1 October; fall and summer early action 15 November; fall and summer regular decision 15 January. Applications are made through the Common Application. The application fee is $65 for domestic applicants and $70 for international applicants; fee waivers can be requested on the Common Application.

Transfer deadlines: spring 1 October; summer and fall early notification 15 March; fall final deadline 1 June. The 2027 transfer application is open.

Apply through the official page: https://www.colorado.edu/admissions

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