BS Astronomy-Physics at University of Virginia

Programme overview

The Astronomy-Physics BS is a joint degree of the Astronomy and Physics departments that prepares students for graduate study in astronomy, physics, computer science and related fields. A senior thesis is required, typically in the fourth year.

Faculty: College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences | Department: Departments of Astronomy and Physics (joint) | Study mode: full-time | Location: Charlottesville, VA, United States

What you will study

Astronomy courses ASTR 2110, 2120, 3130 and a senior thesis (ASTR 4998); physics sequences including PHYS 2620, 2720, 3210, 3310, 3420, 3430, 3650; PHYS 1655 Python; and mathematics MATH 1310, 1320, 2310, 3250, 4220.

Career pathways

Meant for students pursuing a professional career in astronomy, usually as faculty or researchers at universities, observatories and government labs.

Official programme page

Application information

First-year entry for Fall 2027 via Early Decision, Early Action and Regular Decision; transfer applicants can apply for Spring or Fall entry.

First-year deadlines: Early Decision and Early Action November 1 (decisions by December 15 and February 15 respectively); Regular Decision January 5 (decision by April 1). Applications are submitted through the Common Application. Standardized testing is test optional for Fall 2027 first-year applicants.

Transfer deadlines: Spring Transfer October 1 (notification by December 1); Fall Transfer March 1 (notification by May 1). Transfer applications are test optional.

Application fees (2026-27): undergraduate $75; Graduate School of Arts & Sciences $85; Architecture $80; Batten graduate $75; Darden non-PhD $250, Darden PhD $100; Data Science $85; Education and Human Development $65; Law $85; McIntire graduate $85; Medicine $80; Nursing $88; SCPS $70; Graduate Engineering no fee.

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