Your degree in Astronomy

Skills you'll develop

While studying Astronomy, you’re learning how to apply the principles of physics in space. You’ll develop important skills as you learn about the largest structures in the universe and embrace the idea of exploring the unknown.

These skills may include:

Application of theoretical concepts and scientific principles to unexplained or novel space scenarios
Observation, interpretation, quantification, and communication of relationships between factors that explain and impact the universe
Computational coding of complex models or simulations to test theories
Application of logic, reasoning, judgement, and creative and abstract thinking to solve problems
Complex calculations and statistical analysis to understand the world
Communication of complex ideas through advanced technical writing
Technical usage of advanced instruments, machines, and laboratory equipment

Explore career possibilities

Career opportunities vary across a range of fields, including space, science education and outreach, technology and scientific equipment instrumentation, research, power and energy, telecommunications, and others.

There are many career paths that can combine your academic backgrounds, skills, and experience with your different interests. Read through the job titles below for ideas. Some career options may require further education or training.

Visit the National Occupational Classification website to research basic requirements and responsibilities of jobs in your field.

Astronaut
Astronomer
Astrophysicist
Climate scientist
Data analyst
Geophysicist
Laboratory technician
Laser technician
Meteorologist
Museum curator
Nanotechnology physicist

Planetarium interpreter
Radiation inspector
Remote sensing technician
Satellite technologist
Scientific journalist
Scientific photographer
Space program manager
Space vision technologist
Systems/Research analyst
Teacher/Professor
Technical writer

Make the most of your specialization

Your experiences will open doors to new opportunities and help clarify your values and interests.

UBC Astronomy Club
Meet other students and learn about astronomy through stargazing and social events.
UBC Physics Society
Attend student events, seek mentorship, and meet other UBC students.
UBC Science Co-op
Gain work experience in astronomy between study terms.
Departmental research opportunities
Reach out directly to faculty members to ask about potential research positions.
UBC Physics Olympics
Volunteer to support local high school teams competing in a series of physics events.
Metro Vancouver Physics Circle
Provide guidance to advanced high school students in physics through biweekly sessions.
Saturday Morning Lectures
Attend lectures at TRIUMF about the frontiers of modern physics.
Faraday Show
Volunteer at UBC’s annual science show for kids through demonstrations and hands-on activities in term 1.
CAP University Prize Exam
Compete against other undergraduates in the national physics competition in term 2 and win prizes.
UBC Physics outreach initiatives
Interact with elementary and high school students through workshops and sessions.
UBC Department of Physics events
Check out departmental events, including seminars, colloquia, and lectures.
UBC Physics resources for students
Attend workshops and browse resources in the Physics department.

Build your network

Employers often hire people they know, so help them get to know you. You can build your network through clubs, classes, informational interviews, and more. There are so many ways to make connections and find mentors.

The professional associations below are also great resources for meeting people, learning about specific industries, and finding job and volunteer opportunities. Most have reduced membership rates for students and new grads.

Connect with alumni on LinkedIn

Find UBC Astronomy graduates on LinkedIn to learn about where they’re working, and their career and academic paths.

More information

From your Science degree, you’ll develop skills and experiences that can translate into many career paths. Check out other things you can do with your Science degree.