Astronomy
Description
Along with Greek, Latin, and Mathematics, Astronomy counts as one of the oldest continuously taught subjects in the Brown curriculum. It is the study of the properties of stars, galaxies, and the Universe, and as such combines elements from the disciplines of both Physics and Planetary Geology. Students pursuing this concentration complete introductory coursework in classical mechanics, relativity, and astrophysics, along with mathematics and elecromagnetism. They go on to complete courses in stellar and extragalactic astrophysics as well as cosmology. Facilities available to concentrators include the historic Ladd Observatory.
Student Goals
Students in this concentration will:
- Develop their capacity for critical and scientific reasoning
- Understand the interrelation between all physical objects and of the physical laws that govern the behavior of all matter
- Be able to utilize physical principles to model and understand the evolution of the Universe, stars, and planetary systems
- Learn to extract information about astrophysical objects using key astronomical techniques
- Be able to perform quantitative calculations to explain the physical relationships among astronomical objects
Requirements
Click here for a list of the Astronomy concentration requirements. For more information about this concentration, please visit the department's website.
Liberal Learning
This concentration allows you to address the following Liberal Learning goals:
- Collaborate fully
- Engage with your community
- Develop a facility with symbolic languages
- Experience scientific inquiry