For this general area of career goals we recommend either the Astrophysics track or the General Astronomy track with a preparation level equivalent to the requirements for a High School Teacher (see above).  In Educating and writing for the general public, it is important to have as strong as an astronomy and physics background as possible.  This will also help you understand the scientific results you are presenting as well as allow you to converse knowledgably with the scientists who make the discoveries.  Recent graduates of our program have taken planetarium jobs and E/PO position at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science (Gates Planetarium), LASP and the Space Sciences Institute.

Specifically, if you choose the General Astronomy track, it is highly recommended that you choose to fulfill your sophomore level requirements with either:

  • PHYS 2130 General Physics 3 (3) or
  • PHYS 2170 Foundations of Modern Physics (3)

and choose your “other lab science” in coordination with your area of concentration within our department; e.g., if “Stars & Galaxies” choose a Chemistry sequence; if “Planetary Sciences” choose either a Geology sequence (for planetary surfaces), a Biology sequence (for astrobiology), or an Atmospheric Sciences sequence, (for atmospheric and climate change).

  • Consider taking: ASTR 4800 Space Science Policy (3)

Take advantage of the presence of Fiske Planetarium here on campus.  Early in your career you can become familiar with workings at Fiske either by volunteering or taking work-study positions.  Later, Fiske offers opportunities to present K-12 Star Theatre, hands-on laboratory and outreach programs that will assist you honing in teaching skills.  Development of learning modules and new Star Theatre shows is also possible independently with the Fiske staff.

Course work for you to consider outside our department which will enhance your preparation for E/PO and Science Writing by expanding your knowledge of the scientific method and your communications and writing skills:

  • PHIL 1400 Philosophy and the Sciences (3)
  • HIST 4040 The History of Space Exploration and Defense (3)
  • PHYS 3050 Writing in Physics (3)
  • ENVS 3020 Advanced Writing in Environmental Studies (3)
  • WRTG 3030 Writing on Science and Society (3)
  • WRTG 3035 Technical Communication and Design (3)
  • JOUR 4872/ENVS 4800 Science & Environmental Journalism (3)
  • COMM 3320 Persuasion in Society (3)