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What level of College education do you suggest future astrophysicists need to be successful in their career path? Why is this level of education necessary?

I'm a young student who wants to pursue a career in space science, specifically astrophysics. Stem is very important to me and I want to know what level of college education will allow me to be the most successful.

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Mack’s Answer

Hello Viviennne,

Becoming an astrophysicist will be quite a challenge, but if your interests and skills fall in the area of STEM, you have a great chance of being successful in that field.

You will likely need a bachelor's degree in physics or maybe astronomy and a PhD in physics, astronomy, or astrophysics. Here is a general overview that I found online: https://learn.org/articles/what_does_an_astrophysicist_do_-_how_to_become_an_astrophysicist.html

You might want to contact the US Air Force Academy Astronomical Research Group and Observatory since you live in Colorado Springs! No doubt they could give advice about education needs in the space science field. The Academy has many activities for students coordinated by the STEM outreach program: https://www.usafa.edu/research/stem-outreach/. Sandy Lamb is listed as a STEM contact; go to the bottom of the webpage to find contact information. Lt. Col. Benjamin Roth is listed as the Observatory contact ; go to the bottom of this webpage for Observatory contact information: https://www.usafa.edu/research/research-centers/astronomical-research-group-observatory/

And, it looks like an effort is ongoing to install an observatory on top of Pikes Peak. Contacting them might give you a lead to discuss your college education plans: http://www.pikespeakobservatory.org/

Good luck with your investigation and success in the field of Astrophysics,

Mack Bailey
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JOHN’s Answer

Hello:

If you follow the URL for the Q&A, this type of question could be asked to Prof. Chris Impey. His knowledgebase extraordinarily blooms with boundless information. Watch for the next Q&A session and you could ask your question via chat.

"July 10th, 2023 Live Astronomy Q&A Session with Prof. Chris Impey":
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtqOse15Tvc

Next Live Q&A - July 21 at 1:00 PM: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhQpQy49wyk

Some courses on CourseRA:
https://www.coursera.org/learn/evolvinguniverse/home/welcome
https://www.coursera.org/learn/astrobiology-exploring-other-worlds/home/week/1
https://www.coursera.org/learn/astronomy/home/week/1

Thank you for your steps.

God Bless,

John German
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Mutahir’s Answer

Dear,

To thrive in your career as an astrophysicist, a Bachelor's degree is essential. This degree serves as a foundation, allowing you to gather and blend diverse concepts into a cohesive whole.

In your Bachelor's studies, consider every idea as a building block for creating innovative scientific theories. Continually question and challenge existing theories, as this will spark your creativity and lead to the development of fresh perspectives.

Remember, if you only adhere to the current theories and concepts in astrophysics, you may limit your potential to make significant contributions to the field.

However, while challenging the status quo, it's important to respect the ideas of others. Use their suggestions as a stepping stone to broaden your understanding and knowledge.
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