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Do you feel drawn to the stars, galaxies, planets, and swirling nebulas?
If you have an interest in space science and would like to pursue a career that takes you literally out of this world, then astrophysics could be a field worth exploring!
After all, you’ll be working closely with the laws of physics and chemistry to better understand the universe and your place in it.
As satellite and rocket technology becomes more of a reality, it is now possible to take a deeper dive into the birth, life, and death of stars, planets, galaxies, and other objects in the universe.
Hence, working as an astrophysicist is within your reach – as long as you’re willing to commit to years of studying and sharpening your skills to thrive in the workplace!
Read on to explore the dynamic astrophysics field and learn more about what to expect as an astrophysicist.
In the astrophysics field, you can work as an astrophysicist. Depending on your selected area and industry, your job could be more academic-focused or research-focused.
Some common industries that jobs in astrophysics would take you to include the research lab, aerospace, higher education as well as government agencies.
In general, astrophysics are research professionals who work with large amounts of data and often have to tap into their math and research skills to evaluate and analyze the physics component of astronomy.
Some general responsibilities include keeping up-to-date with the latest field research, developing theories in astrophysics and testing them via research techniques as well as learning more about the universe through science experiments, among others.
If you’re an astrophysicist working in a more research-focused setting, you’ll largely divide your time between teaching and doing fieldwork. This includes interpreting and analyzing data as well as tapping into research tools to collect extra information.
Sometimes you’ll be required to work closely and collaborate with a research team to share research techniques and results.
Astrophysicists who adopt a more academic-focused career will work in higher education largely as an astrophysics professor.
A typical workday would include designing lesson plans, teaching and interacting with college students as well as possibly overseeing internships.
At entry level, you’ll get to work closely with your supervisors and learn from them while you gain some industry experience. Sometimes you’ll get to take part in on-the-job training programs to build up your skills.
As you progress and gain more experience, you might work more independently and with bigger research budgets.
Apart from that, you could potentially move into a managerial position and manage a team as well as prepare schedules and budgets.
As an astrophysicist, you can expect to earn an average of $96,982 annually.
However, the annual salary typically ranges from $85,028 for those starting and $111,753 for those with more years of experience in the profession.
Having said that, there are other factors such as certifications, education, and additional skills that could contribute to the final amount in your salary.
To become an astrophysicist, you’ll require at least a master’s degree or in some cases, a doctoral degree. This includes a master’s degree or PhD in astrophysics or astronomy.
However, before that, you’ll have to first complete a bachelor’s degree and major in astrophysics or a related field.
Expect to dive into subjects such as physics, engineering, and astronomy as well as other areas of science.
When you pursue your studies in astrophysics, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how the laws of physics apply to astronomy and also learn about topics such as extrasolar planets and black holes.
Now that you have a better understanding of what your career as an astrophysicist would be like, are you looking to move in that direction?
At IDP, we can help you turn your career dreams into reality. With a team of education counsellors ready to help you out, you’ll get tailored guidance and valuable advice that can help you reach your goals.
Also, our education counsellors will assist you throughout your application process, making the process more seamless.
Get started with your free counselling session today!
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