Astronomy Minor — Chico State Skip to Main Content
California State University, Chico

Astronomy Minor

Giovanni Paz-Silva working in the Roth Planetarium and leading in the Society of Physics Students
  • Program Type

    Undergraduate Minor

  • Delivery Type

    On Campus

Follow your curiosity across the cosmos. A minor in astronomy will give you a broad foundation in astrophysics and applied sciences.

You’ll work with passionate faculty using cutting edge telescopes and technology to conduct meaningful research that seeks to answer deep questions about the nature of the universe. Whether you’re a dedicated stargazer or a budding physicist looking to enhance your degree, you’ll be welcomed to a tight-knit department and a network of peers who share a love of learning.

Students and teachers on the grass surrounding a tool that is used to view the solar eclipse.

A Universe to Explore

Your coursework includes a basic overview of applied physics, an introduction to astronomy and a survey of the cosmos, and electives that include “Stars and Telescopes.”

a workshop on “Phase-Sensitive Detection With A Low-Cost Microcontroller” as visiting faculty learn about scientific and educational innovation

Enhance Your Career Trajectory

As a student in the minor, you’ll develop a range of important skills that translate to any career path or profession. This includes research, communication, project management, and analysis, alongside the technical acumen and confidence to operate and engage with technology like telescopes.

Embracing the First Science

A minor in astronomy is a great addition to any major in science and provides an additional focus on the first of all the sciences.

Some majors that complement this minor include:

Students pouring liquid Nitrogen into a pumpkin

The Society of Physics Students

Join our very own student-run club dedicated to all things physics, offering you a welcoming community to build your knowledge-base, attend workshops and social gatherings, and network with faculty offering research opportunities.

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