I've always had an interest in astronomy...?

Question

But I've heard that there are very few jobs in the field, and astronomers don't get paid that much. Is there any other interesting job that I can do that requires a degree in engineering, or physics?

Answer 1

You are right that jobs for astronomy is very limited even if you have a Ph.D. Since you are interested in astronomy and you are concerned about job prospects, have you thought about doing something less theoretical but still astronomy related? Within the field of electrical engineering, many universities offer something called space physics (or remote sensing). When I was in college, I was taught by a number of EE professors and TAs in this field. Researchers in this field typically use radio telescopes, radars, and satellites to study the upper atmosphere, solar wind, meteors, northern lights, and other phenomena. They also study the effect of space weather on wireless communication. Graduates usually do go on and get their PhDs (in EE, astrophysics, or geophysics) for more advance research. Many of them eventually go work for the Dept of Defense, NASA, NOAA, defense companies, or academia. However, the advantage of this field is that you do have an engineering degree, and you can take other more practical courses that can land you a job, just in case if your primary pursuit does not pan out.

Example from my alma mater: http://www.ece.cornell.edu/research-sspp.cfm
http://spp.ece.cornell.edu/

Answer 2

In general astronomers don' t get paid much. It is a job people love. Also one almost needs a PhD to do astronomy research and get paid. Undergrads are a dime a dozen and compete for assistant positions that pay nothing just to get the experience. That is just the way it is.

Other scientists make a wide range of incomes depending on the projects they work on, who they work for, and how well funded it is.

Projects for NASA, the military, or cutting edge engineering pay very well but usually require graduate degrees.

There is a great demand for scientists in the near future and I fully expect the incomes to rise-especially if we get into a war.

Answer 3

i've always had an interest in astronomy too, but i am taking my life up in writing and building and steering away from astronomy.

you can get any type of job, and then research and live atronomy if you want to in your spare time. But otherwise, there are few jobs that involve astronomy.

Answer 4

astronomy will be no. 1 in the near future so don't be discouraged I suck at math and physics but i love space and i know a lot of thing about it
do what u like and if u don't find a job teach :P

Answer 5

I'm in the same type of position except i want one that requires a degree in mathematics and physics, although they dont pay all too well =(

Answer 6

It doesn't hurt to try anyway. If you want the bucks, engineering is for you. As for the type, I really can't help you since I don't know about your likes and dislikes. Try your HS guidance office.

Answer 7

you can teach of course.
become an engineer
research and development