Astronomy-new
Career & Academic Pathways >> STEM
Contact Information
Lijuan Wei (Department Chair)
(831) 645-1391
lwei@mpc.edu
For Additional Info
• Download our Info Sheet
• Visit MPC Astronomy
• Connect with a Counselor 

Program Overview

Astronomy is the branch of science that studies celestial objects and processes.  But it’s more than stargazing; astronomers draw on other disciplines to explain celestial phenomena, including mathematics, physics, and chemistry.  The AS degree in Astronomy at MPC gives students a foundation in introductory science and math, which are needed for further study in astronomy or a related field.

Job Outlook

As the private sector moves into space exploration, the aerospace industry is thriving, with year-over-year growth in 2021 forecast at more than 15%. While top-tier jobs require advanced degrees, MPC program graduates can explore entry-level roles as research and lab assistants; they can also share their love of astronomy as educators and docents at local institutions. Astronomy graduates’ mathematical and scientific knowledge, problem-solving skills, and big-picture thinking are broadly in demand, giving them a launchpad from which to explore further education and training.

Potential Careers

Museum Guides/Docents 

$24,660 - $50,070

*Aerospace Technicians
(may require additional training)

$40,540 - $101,550

*High School Science Teachers
(may require additional training)

$56,560 - $115,360

*Astronomers
(may require additional training)

$60,490 - $208,000+

*Pilots & Flight Engineers
(may require additional training)

$90,760 - $208,000

MPC Degrees and Certificates

  • Astronomy - Associate in Science (AS)

Suggested Course Sequence (AS)

Year 1

FALL
 UNITS
 SPRING UNITS

ENGL 1A 

 3

ENGL 2 

 3

LIBR 50

 1

MATH 20A

 4

MATH 13

 5

Area 3A or B

 3

ASTR 10

 3

Area 4

3

ASTR 10L

 1

   US-1 rec.

UC Elective

 1 UC Elective
2

   PERS 10 rec.

      
       
Total Fall Units
 14
 Total Spring Units
 15

Year 2

FALL
 UNITS
 SPRING UNITS

PHYS 3A

 4

Area 1C (CSU req. only)

 3
MATH 20B 4

Area 4

 3

Area 3A

 3

   US-2 & 3 rec.

  

Area 3B

 3

Area 4

 3
 

Area 5B

 3
   

Area 6 (UC req. only)

 5
       or UC Electives  
       
Total Fall Units
 14
 Total Spring Units
 17

This is a suggested sequence of coursework and is one pathway for students to earn their degree/certificate. This is not an official educational plan. A counselor is able to assist you with creating a personalized education plan based on your academic, career, and personal goals. For more information about counseling and up-to-date program requirements, please visit www.mpc.edu/counseling. 

Testimonials 

Brendan Chapman

The caring and knowledgeable instructors at MPC both prepared me for transfer to a four-year university and helped lead me to a Ph.D. program in Planetary Science. Modern, effective science courses paired with an excellent teacher to student ratio and focus on education contributed to making MPC the most effective learning institution I’ve been a part of.