Astronomy at San Diego State University?

Hi all! I'm a junior really into astronomy and I came across San Diego State University's program. Does anyone here have any experience or knowledge about their astronomy department? Are the classes interesting, the professors passionate, and are there any cool research opportunities or internships?

Hey there! San Diego State University (SDSU) has a solid astronomy program that you might find interesting. While I don't have personal experience with the program, I can provide you with some helpful information.

First off, the professors in the astronomy department at SDSU are passionate about their subject and have a variety of research interests, ranging from exoplanets to galactic dynamics. You can find a list of faculty members and their research interests on the department's website to get a better understanding of what topics you might be able to explore.

As for the courses, you can expect a good range of classes covering various aspects of astronomy and astrophysics. The curriculum starts with fundamental topics like planetary science and stellar astronomy, and as you progress, you can dive deeper into areas like cosmology and high-energy astrophysics. The classes aim to be engaging and emphasize both theoretical concepts and practical applications.

When it comes to research opportunities, SDSU has strong connections to the Mount Laguna Observatory, which is located just east of San Diego. The observatory is jointly operated by SDSU and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Being involved with the observatory will grant you access to its facilities and the chance to work alongside professors on their research projects or even develop your own.

In addition to research opportunities, many students at SDSU find internships within the broader field of astronomy and astrophysics. You can explore internships at local research institutions, museums, or astronomy-focused organizations. The department may also be able to help you find internships in more specialized fields, like astrobiology or space instrumentation, depending on your interests.

Overall, the astronomy program at SDSU seems promising. It offers passionate professors, an exciting range of classes, and opportunities for hands-on research and internships. Don't forget to also consider visiting the campus and talking to current students or faculty to get a more personalized understanding of the program. Good luck!