Were you the kid memorizing the names of the constellations and wondering about life on other planets? The University of Toledo offers a world-class program in Astronomy.
Our faculty members in the Department of Astronomy and Physics rival those at other, major universities. They are actively engaged in leading-edge research with NASA and colleagues around the world. Undergraduates are able to collaborate on research starting their freshman years.
Astronomy is closely tied to physics, mathematics, geology and biology. UToledo undergraduates study the origins of the Earth and other planets. They learn about humans’ place in the universe, our prospects for the future and the importance of physical sciences.
Top Reasons to Study Astronomy at UToledo
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Renowned faculty.Our physicists and astronomers at UToledo are equal to those anywhere in the U.S. Five of our faculty members have been elected fellows of the American Physical Society for their significant research. This international honor is bestowed on only a small fraction of members. Five are endowed professors. Others have been named UToledo outstanding lecturers and researchers.
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A head start on research.Get involved in research as early as your freshman year. Many schools offer research opportunities only to grad students. UToledo undergraduates publish in peer-reviewed journals and present their research at conferences.
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A national reputation.It’s not just our expert faculty and cutting-edge research. UToledo also is known for its active public-education programs at the Ritter Observatory, Ritter Planetarium and Brooks Observatory.
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Learn outside the classroom.UToledo undergrads are encouraged to:
- Join our award-winning chapter of the Society of Physics Students. The group offers a speaker series, networking, a community outreach program and social activities.
- Intern at UToledo’s Ritter Planetarium. The on-campus facility offers public programs during the weekends.
- Join our observing team on clear nights.
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Low student-to-faculty ratio.Our students work one-on-one with faculty members. These close relationships can lead to great recommendation letters for jobs or graduate school.
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Masters and PhD programs in astronomy.These graduate programs benefit undergrads by drawing passionate grad students and high-caliber faculty and resources to UToledo.
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State-of-the-art facilities.Labs with the latest equipment; the Ritter and Brooks observatories; and the Ritter Planetarium.
What jobs can I get with an Astronomy degree?
UToledo has a strong history of launching our undergraduates into rewarding careers. Employers love our students for their:
- Critical-thinking skills
- Abilities to solve complicated problems
- Technical software and hardware skills (modeling, design and development)
These skills allow our graduates to keep up with constantly changing technology.
A UToledo bachelor's degree in astronomy gives students a strong science education not only in astronomy, but also in physics, mathematics and chemistry. It prepares them for a variety of careers, including many industry positions that do not have “astronomy” in the title.
UToledo graduates are employed in:
- Planetary and space science
- Science writing
- Government
- Environmental science
- Business
- Law
They work as:
- Laboratory technicians
- Science journalists
- Computer programmers
- Patent lawyers
- Ecologists
- Crime-scene investigators
Many graduates also pursue higher degrees in business, law, medicine and science.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities
At UToledo, we take you beyond the textbooks and the four walls of a classroom. These real-world experiences are what help our graduates gain professional skills and land jobs.
Internships
Finding an internship is easy thanks to UToledo’s robust community partnerships with companies and organizations around the region. Dive into unique opportunities that prepare you to launch your career.
Internships help you:
- Gain practical experience
- Build your resume
- Refine your skills
- Cultivate contacts
Internships often lead to full-time jobs after graduation!
The Rocket Career Center can help you track down job opportunities. You also might be able to receive academic credit for your internship or job.
Research
UToledo's Department of Physics and Astronomy has a strong, externally funded research program. We have been elected to the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy. Our astronomers and astrophysicists are involved in major NASA missions. They also carry out theoretical and observational research with collaborators at leading observatories around the world.
Starting their freshman years, students can collaborate on research with faculty members, post-doctoral fellows and graduate students.
Our undergraduates:
- Publish an average of four refereed papers per year
- Publish their work in leading, peer-reviewed journals
- Present findings at regional and national conferences
UToledo's Office of Undergraduate Research can:
- Connect you to faculty mentors and projects
- Help you find funding
- Help you present your research at conferences and other events
Study Abroad
Travel, experience new cultures and meet new people — all while earning college credit.
UToledo's Education Abroad Office can help you find the perfect opportunity. You can apply for grants, scholarships and financial aid to help fund study abroad.
- Semester at Sea
- Short-term, summer and faculty-led trips
- Direct exchange programs with other universities
- Teach English abroad
- Global health program (med student clerkships)
- Rocket Kids (work with youth around the world)
Rocket Kids Semester
The Rocket Kids program offers University students a fall, spring or summer semester internship providing recreational programming to U.S. military youth while experiencing the world in locations such as Germany, Italy, Belgium and The Netherlands.
Rocket Kids interns will gain practical experience in programming, leadership, health and wellness, creative arts, performing arts, cultural and literary arts, team and individual sports, adventure and outdoor recreation and STEM education.
On-campus and Part-time Jobs
- Learn skills that prepare you for a career after graduation.
- Build your resume.
- Earn money.
If you want to work, there are plenty of opportunities on campus and at businesses near campus. If you demonstrate financial need, you may qualify for the federal work-study program.
Student Organizations
Our most successful students get involved.
UToledo has 400+ student organizations that will help you:
- Make friends.
- Build your resume.
- Network.
- Be a leader.
- Serve your community.
- Have fun!
Tuition and Scholarships
Most new students don't pay full price. 94% of new UToledo students receive scholarships or other state and federal aid.
Keep in mind: Your cost will vary by college, program and a host of other options. This is the average amount full-time students pay per year.
Tuition and Fees
Living Expenses (Housing & Food)
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How to pay for collegeInternational Student - How to Pay for College
Honors College
The Jesup Scott Honors College at The University of Toledo offer our best and brightest the resources and opportunities needed to unlock your fullest potential. Whether you aspire following graduation to cure disease, innovate technology, advance statecraft, redefine markets, or express creatively, together we can fuel vibrant and promising tomorrows.
Honors students come from a variety of countries, backgrounds and cultures. While we may bond over a tough class, our differences make us blossom.
Benefits of Honors
The Honors College is a community of academically gifted students from all majors on campus. Students take unique Honors classes taught by dedicated Honors faculty and complete an Honors thesis or capstone project in their major, earning the Honors medallion at graduation within their normal program of study. Honors students are challenged to think more deeply and broadly about what they learn. With special academic, cultural, and professional development opportunities, their education extends beyond the classroom.
Honors students can also choose exclusive housing in the Honors Academic Village or President's Hall.
Explore more about what the Honors College can offer you as a budding professional, inquisitive scholar, and engaged person.
Visit Campus
A campus visit is the best way to figure out if UToledo is a great fit for you.
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