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Astronomical Sciences

Astronomical Sciences

Astronomical Sciences studies the vast universe beyond Earth, discovering objects and phenomena that do not exist on Earth or in the solar system, such as planets orbiting other stars, black holes and forms of mass and energy that cannot be seen even though they form 95% of the universe. To study these objects, astronomical sciences integrates the methods and knowledge of all the other sciences.

Department
Degree

Honours Bachelor of Science

Program Options

Specialist

Program Plans

Plan your degree with these academic and co-curricular program overviews.

Tip Sheets

Learn more about further education, applying to jobs & more!

Potential Career Options
  • Astronomer
  • Aerospace engineer
  • Optical physicist
  • Cosmologist
  • Environmental scientist
Career Centre

Admission Requirements

Admission Category
OUAC Code
TMW
Competitive Average
Mid to High 70s
Program Course Prerequisites
ENG4U
, MHF4U, SPH4U; (recommended: Calculus)

Regional Requirements

Admissions Requirements

Life in Astronomical Sciences

Buzz Around Campus

Stars

If you are searching for homeschooling activities or looking to try a new hobby during the pandemic, now might be the perfect time to turn your gaze toward the heavens as the weather gets warmer. From planets and stars to galaxies and the cultural importance of the night sky, there’s a fascinating universe waiting to be explored.

Patrick Gunning

Professor Patrick Gunning, a medicinal chemistry researcher at the University of Toronto Mississauga, whose novel methods may significantly improve how we treat the deadliest types of cancer, has made 2017's list of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40.

Paul Ashwell

Something unexpected is happening at U of T Mississauga. The ground has started to rumble with increasing frequency, shaking buildings, rattling desks and leading to mounting concern and confusion.

Sample Courses

This course explores the astrophysics of planets, Sun and stars, including their observed variety, structure, formation and evolution.

The analysis of vibrating systems and wave motion, introducing mathematical techniques such as complex numbers, eigenvalue problems, and Fourier series. Topics include: travelling waves; propagation of electromagnetic waves in materials.

Structure of computers; the computing environment. Programming in a language such as Python. Program structure: elementary data types, statements, control flow, functions, classes, objects, methods, fields. List: searching, sorting and complexity.

Other Programs to Consider

Earth Science

Earth Science

Earth Science is the discipline that studies our planet and all of its natural environments. Our program offers training in both critical streams of Earth Science: Resources & Tectonics and Earth, Climate & Life. Through our program, students become well equipped to understand the causes and consequences of radical shifts already underway in Earth’s climate system.

Geography

Geography (HBSc)

The Geography BSc offers a broad perspective on physical geography. In-depth studies include climatology, hydrology and ecosystems, with possible specialization in biogeochemistry, arctic regions, landscape ecology, natural resources and urban climate. The curriculum stresses the integrative nature of the discipline as well as the development of skills in geographical information analysis.

Environmental Geosciences

Environmental Geosciences

Completion of this program is intended to fulfill the knowledge requirements for certification as a Professional Geoscientist (P. Geo.) in conformity with the stipulations of the Association of Professional Geoscientists of Ontario (APGO) and the Canadian Council of Professional Geoscientists (CCPG).