Astronomy
Astronomy, of all the sciences, is perhaps the most wide-ranging in its content and in its implications. It embraces such topics as the origin and evolution of the planets, stars, galaxies and the whole universe; the conditions for the origin of life on earth and elsewhere; the behaviour of matter in environments never experienced on earth, and in general, the influence of the universe on mankind's thinking down through the ages. Due to its breadth, it has always formed a valuable part of a general education.
Honours Bachelor of Science
Program Plans
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Tip Sheets
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- Astronomer
- Astronaut
- Climatologist
- Professor
- Scientist
Admission Requirements
Regional Requirements
Admissions RequirementsLife in Astronomy
Buzz Around Campus
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.
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.
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.
An introduction to equilibrium thermodynamics with application to ideal and non-ideal systems: covering the concepts of work and heat, the laws of thermodynamics, internal energy, enthalpy and entropy, the chemical potential, and states of matter.
Other Programs to Consider
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 (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.
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.