Things You'll Need:
- College Applications
- College Catalogs
- Career Counseling
- Computers
- Online Career Search
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Step 1
Familiarize yourself with the field. The American Astronomical Society's Web page (see aas.org) offers a plethora of information for astronomy students and graduates and includes lists of fellowships, grants and jobs.
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Step 2
Take pre-calculus, chemistry and physics courses while you are in high school. If possible, also take advanced placement courses in those subjects.
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Step 3
Maintain at least a B average in a physics or astronomy/physics major in college. It is the minimum grade accepted by the astronomy departments of grad schools.
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Step 4
Check the Graduate School Directory (see gradschools.com) for a list of schools offering advanced degrees in astronomy. Be aware that there are relatively few openings in the approximately 80 schools offering a doctorate and that you may first need to obtain a master's degree.
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Step 5
Ask your college guidance counselor well before your senior year to make certain you have chosen all courses necessary for admittance to an astronomy program.
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Step 6
Expect to work with your grad school professors on their projects and fieldwork, regardless of the pay or type of work. Their recommendations will be necessary for your future jobs.
