Top 21 Jobs for Astronomy Majors (Plus Education Requirements and Average Salaries)

Careers in astronomy require advanced knowledge of math and science concepts, and in some cases, specialization in computer programming and engineering. Whether you’re currently an astronomy major or you’re considering a career in astronomy, you may wonder which jobs are available for you. In this article, we discuss 21 popular jobs available if you have an astronomy degree ranging from lowest to highest earning potential.

There are a variety of jobs that astronomy majors might consider upon graduation. Here are some of the most popular jobs with salaries:

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Journalists with a background in science are well-versed in complex topics, understand industry jargon prevalent in academic journals, have excellent writing skills and often have first-hand experience conducting scientific research. Some work as freelancers while others are employed by publishers who produce science-related content. In addition, science journalists often have access to valuable contacts, which enhances the quality of their stories.

Bachelor’s degree in a science-related field

Technical writers have expert-level knowledge regarding specific fields of science and math. Astronomy majors who choose to become technical writers craft complex documents—including research and grant proposals—and work with scientists to publish the latest findings based on research performed in the field.

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or college and prior experience with technical writing

Research assistants work as part of a team to collect, analyze and record data related to scientific research. They typically work under the guidance of a senior researcher and assist with a variety of lab duties. Often, they prepare reports and grant proposals to aid in their studies.

Bachelor’s degree relevant to a specialty

Today, aspiring astronomers must possess knowledge of modern coding languages to perform the work required and remain competitive in their field. Programmers write, debug, and test code to analyze many forms of data in the scientific realm, which helps companies and organizations find solutions to their problems.

Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Mathematics or a related subject

Science teachers are often remembered for their hands-on class experiments. In addition to experimentation, their primary role is to teach students about scientific concepts through engaging lectures and demonstrations. They work with children in educational settings from elementary school to high school, and sometimes make a guest appearance at local museums where they help the general public learn more about science.

Bachelor’s Degree in Science Education and in some cases, a master’s degree. A teaching certificate is also required.

Astronomy majors may become sales managers who work in a variety of environments. Their responsibilities include organizing and leading sales teams who collaborate to achieve sales goals. This role usually involves frequent traveling and time developing client relationships. Sales managers act as mentors to their team members and monitor sales objectives constantly to promote high productivity.

Undergraduate degree in a related field with proven sales experience

Business analysts help companies find solutions to any challenges they may be facing. They work with stakeholders to identify business needs, assess the impact of change, manage projects and design technical solutions to achieve company goals.

Master’s Degree in Computer and Information Science or another business-related field

Press officers serve as the main media contact for organizations when communicating with journalists and other professionals regarding company initiatives, campaigns and other events. They monitor media coverage and write press releases, as well as schedule interviews with key stakeholders.

Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Political Science or related field

Associate professors teach students in a higher education setting, such as colleges and universities. They prepare and give lectures based on information in the course syllabus, answer student questions, administer exams and sometimes participate in scientific research with other professionals in their chosen field.

Bachelor’s degree in a science-related field, then completion of a doctorate

Meteorologists study the Earth’s atmosphere to forecast weather conditions. They use complex mathematical and physical formulations to analyze their research. The results help government agencies and other organizations make informed decisions that help them achieve their business goals.

Master’s Degree in Meteorology or Climatology

Planetarium directors typically have an extensive background in astronomy. They oversee all aspects of the planetarium and its museum exhibitions. They work with other museum personnel to ensure a high level of enjoyment, safety and educational experience for museum patrons.

A Bachelor’s Degree in Astronomy or Physics is preferred, or equivalent educational and professional experience. Many directors have master’s and doctorate degrees, though this is not always required for the position.

Research scientists use critical thinking and technical skills to discover the unknown in various subfields of science. They work alone and alongside other scientists (and lab assistants) to perform scientific research, then present their findings in meetings, lectures and industry publications.

Master’s degree in a science-related field, plus the pursuit of a doctorate in some cases

Electrical engineers develop, design and test a wide range of electrical systems that solve business problems. They use their advanced knowledge of physics and mathematics to successfully manufacture electromagnetic devices and discover new ways to implement electrical power.

Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering

$94,110 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Climatologists study long-term weather patterns in specific areas of the world. Their studies span many decades and often focus on a 30-year cycle. They often work outside collecting soil samples, though much of their time is spent indoors analyzing data and presenting their research to the community.

Master’s Degree in Meteorology or Climatology

Astronomy majors often have a strong research background when they transition to business-minded professionals. Senior consultants help their clients achieve business development goals, track existing projects and find ways to increase efficiency and promote positive interpersonal relationships in the workplace. Often, consulting firms guide astronomy professionals to government agencies for industry-specific work.

Master’s degree or higher in a related field

Aeronautical engineers design spaceships and satellites, as well as space missions. They have an advanced math and science background, and extensive knowledge regarding space exploration and how rockets interact with the Earth’s gravitational pull.

Aspiring aeronautical engineers must earn a bachelor’s degree in the matching field or in a relevant field that is either engineering or science-related. Some students begin relevant coursework in high school, which includes advanced math, science and computer courses.

$111,090 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Astronomers are scientists who study elements of the universe and perform research to understand how it works. They examine the planets, sun and stars, galaxies and other aspects of the solar system and record their observations. There are several subfields of astronomy which include planetary, solar, stellar, galactic, extragalactic, as well as cosmology.

Master’s Degree in Astronomy and in some cases, a doctorate

$119,580 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Astrophysicists have extensive knowledge of physics, math and science concepts. They analyze objects in space and form theories about their astronomical relationships. Using advanced mathematical skills, they test these theories and how they relate to the laws of the universe. In addition to research, they must write grants to receive funding for their projects, as well as create presentations and write scientific articles for industry publications.

Bachelor’s Degree in Astronomy, Astrophysics or related field and pursuit of relevant graduate degree, or master’s degree

Data scientists collect, extract meaning from, and interpret large sets of structured and unstructured data for the organizations they are employed by. Part of their job involves cleaning and validating the data to ensure total uniformity. They present the results of findings to key stakeholders in an effort to pursue new opportunities.

Bachelor’s Degree in Data Science, Computer Science or closely related field. Master’s degree is often preferred, with experience as a data analyst or network architect.

$125,280 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Primary duties: Physicists perform scholarly research in a variety of scientific fields. Astronomy majors who become physicists may work with astronomers and other experts in the industry to test theories that produce new findings. They often work in educational settings and specialize in fields like astrophysics and quantum mechanics.

Master’s Degree in Physics or related field

Patent attorneys represent and assist clients throughout the patent process. They ensure their clients receive the exclusive rights as inventors of the patented products and may file oppositions, if necessary. They communicate with researchers, inventors and other lawyers regarding all issues related to patents.

A Bachelor’s Degree in Physics, Biology or Chemistry qualifies students for the Patent Bar Exam, though many pursue additional schooling in order to prepare for the field and licensing exam.