How many years of college/university are required to become an astrophysicist...?

Question

What classes can I expect to be taking? How old is too old to start (I'm almost 28)?

Answer 1

It depends on your interest as Astrophysicist comes in many forms. If you are interested in research, then yes, a PhD (and many years of classes and reaches) is a must. If you are handy with instrument or programming, you may be able to work in the astronomy without a PhD. There are many space-related astronomy programs that need a lot of people with undergraduate degrees.

Answer 2

You are never too old.

Astrophysics requires a back ground in physics, astronomy, math and chemistry. I do not know for sure but I would guess that most working astrophysicists have a PhD. That means a 4 year degree to get a Bachelors, get accepted into a PhD program and probably at least 4 years of graduate school including doing research and writing a thesis.

good luck

Answer 3

Keep in mind that there are pretty much no jobs in astronomy or astrophysics if you don't have a PhD. It takes about 10 years to get a PhD in astronomy. But it's never too late to start.

First, you'll need an undergraduate (4-year degree) in physics, with a double major or minor in math and astronomy, if possible. Astronomy is good to study (obviously) but physics is more important. You can always pick up the astronomy in grad school. Spend your summers in REU (research experience for undergraduates) programs to get a feel for how research works and maybe even get published.

Then apply to grad schools in physics, astrophysics, or astronomy. Two more years of physics and astronomy classes, and then about 4 of research to finish your thesis.

There are plenty of older students in my program. It's never too late to start.

Answer 4

you can start any time. usually you need a phd which
means 4 years of undergrad (minimum) and then
3 years to the PHD (that is if you are fast). Most people take longer--some don't make it because admission to grad school is competive. Some who aren't quite at that level can only get into a master's first. then you probably will spend at least an extra year. get your master's and then apply for phd programs if you couldn't get into a phd program right out of undergrad school. but 7 years minimum.