Bachelor of Arts in Astronomy

Astronomy today is a large, fast-moving enterprise, in which new instruments and theories are constantly evolving. We live in a golden age of science, and astronomy is enjoying more than its share of breakthroughs. As an astronomy major, you will come to understand how much of this works, and you will have opportunities to make your own contribution to humankind's understanding of the cosmos. The astronomy major is under the umbrella of the Department of Physics and Astronomy. Until recently, a separated major wasn't available. You may wonder, then, what astronomy is, and how it relates to the other subject in the department, physics. Other disciplines come into play as well. Computers are used at every step of the way, not just to simulate physical situations, but to deal with the reams of data modern instruments produce. Some astronomers specialize in telescope and instrument building, and become very good engineers. Even chemistry has its place in understanding molecular clouds in space, cool stellar atmospheres, and the composition of planets. And because randomness is everywhere, both in the sky and in our data, some astronomers make very clever use of statistics. Astronomy is not a mere subfield of physics, but a truly interdisciplinary quest to understand the universe.
Students who complete a major in Astronomy: Are critical thinkers who can apply scientific reasoning to new situations, Are effective written and oral communicators, Can solve problems using logical, mathematical and computational skills, Can design and execute an astronomical observing program, Can formulate the major open questions in astronomy and evaluate the results of recent studies.

Regular Decision applicants are considered for first-year admission and may apply to other colleges concurrent with their application to Dartmouth.
Students who have not matriculated at a college are eligible for first-year admission. Students who have taken college coursework that is counting towards their high school graduation must apply for first-year admission. This includes students pursuing an associate's degree while finishing high school.

The Secondary School Report is a form completed by the applicant's school counselor that provides Dartmouth with an overview of the applicant's academic record. This form can be submitted online via the Common App. Along with the required School Report, your counselor should also submit their letter of recommendation, your high school transcript, and a school profile if available.

Applicants score above 100 on the TOEFL exam, above a 7 on IELTS, above a 130 on Duolingo