Apart from the zeal, confidence etc, whether you like it or not, you have to like physics and mathematics. Bachelor's level background in Physics and Mathematics is required. This is not to scare you guys, but I am trying to show you the reality.
There are different paths that you can take to start your career in astronomy. Depending on where you are in your education, you could choose different ways to get into astronomy. I will keep it updating as and when I come across something new from the experiences of many people. I would also encourage you guys to give me your inputs so that we will have answers all at one place.
Whatever path you choose, for a career in Astronomy, it is important to obtain a Ph.D. in Astronomy.
Students who have completed their 10th class:
This looks like a lot of studying and qualifying several entrance exams, but it is worth the effort.
Students who have completed their 10th class:
- should take Mathematics and Physics as their majors in their college,
- followed by a Bachelors degree in either Physics or Mathematics.
- You could then proceed to join Masters in Astronomy which will pave the way to get admission into Ph.D. program.
This looks like a lot of studying and qualifying several entrance exams, but it is worth the effort.
Students who have an engineering background and have a B.Tech degree, even they are eligible to join the Ph.D. Astronomy program.
In India, this can be done by clearing the Joint Entrance Screening Test. The syllabus for the exam is at master's level Physics subject. There are Integrated M.Sc-PhD as well as Ph.D. program available at various institutes in India. In addition to the JEST, each institute also conducts its own entrance exam.
One can also study abroad - in the US, Germany, Australia to name a few. Here again, any B.Tech/M.Sc students are eligible to apply for Ph.D. in Astronomy.
In addition to clearing the exam, it is important to have some experience in Astronomy outreach or in research. You might ask how is it possible? Well, now-a-days, there are several internships that are being offered at the institutes that I have mentioned above and several other universities as well. They are often summer internships which extend for a month or two. These will help you to gain experience in this field and this way you can check if you really like astronomy or you wanna do something else? This research experience will also add weight to your resume. Check the 'Experiencing Astronomy' page in this blog.
Hi Sravani, your story inspired me a lot. I am not very sure whether I can post my question here, but still dared to do.
ReplyDeleteI am a mother of two, my son (currently in 4th standard) is very fascinated towards astronomy. He is an enthusiastic kid and doing good with his studies. I am very much aware that doing his class (or one class above) is not at all sufficient. Could you suggest me the path on how to make him ready for astrophysics. Thank you so much.
regards
Padmaja.
Highly appreciate for taking time to drop in a message. I am also happy to know about the budding astronomer in your home. You are right that, studies is not all sufficient. Getting practical knowledge and training is more important, not just in physics, but in every subject. He could make small exhibits, you could help him. Even a simple exercise will leave a sense of understanding in the kid...for example, when we say, oil is less dense than water, you can actually show it practially what it means. Encourage him to analyze the subject and not just memorize. May be this is too early for him, but this is where he should be lead to.
DeleteShould I take statistics or mechanics as an addition to maths?
ReplyDeleteI'm doing my grade 11
That is a hard choice to make. In addition to maths, I would prefer mechanics which I mean, classical mechanics, quantum mechanics,statistical mechanics. These all come under physics.
DeleteFor studying about the space objects in universe, which stream best suits for under graduation courses in india?
ReplyDeletePhysics....
Delete