| program requirements | Department | School |
| Undergraduate Major, Minor | Physics & Astronomy | School of Science |
Reach for the Stars with Siena's Astrophysics Program
At Siena, your journey into the universe is more than just classroom learning – it’s an experience where you actively explore the cosmos. From day one, you’ll dive into world-class research, build programming skills, and observe the night sky using one of New York’s largest university-run telescopes, the Breyo Observatory. This is what makes Siena truly unique – hands-on learning where you’re at the forefront of discovery.
Why Choose Siena's Astrophysics Program?
Experience Real Research Early On
Unlike larger schools, at Siena, you’re not waiting in line behind graduate students to participate in groundbreaking research. As early as your freshman year, you can work side-by-side with faculty on research funded by NASA, the National Science Foundation, and the Department of Energy. Whether you're analyzing star formations or investigating the mysteries of dark energy, your contributions aren’t just assignments—they’re real-world experiences that prepare you for top-tier careers and graduate programs.
Learning with the Latest Tools
You won’t just study astrophysics; you’ll live it. Using Siena’s Breyo Observatory, you’ll capture stunning images of galaxies and analyze their spectra, just like a professional astronomer. And with our commitment to physics education research, you’ll learn using the most effective teaching methods, ensuring you grasp complex concepts in a way that sticks.
Tight-Knit, Supportive Community
With class sizes under 20, you’ll get to know your professors and peers personally. You won’t be just another face in the crowd; you'll be part of a supportive community that collaborates, learns, and grows together. Here, you’re encouraged to ask questions, explore your passions, and find your place in the universe.
Real-World Outcomes
Siena astrophysics graduates don’t just leave with a degree; they leave with a portfolio of experiences that stand out to employers and graduate schools. Our alumni have earned spots at prestigious institutions like MIT, Stanford, and the University of Michigan, and others have secured positions at companies like Disney World, Regeneron, and Globalfoundries. With Siena’s program, you’re not just preparing for a job—you’re preparing for a career that takes you anywhere you want to go.
Key Courses That Define Your Journey
Your gateway to the universe, where you learn the fundamental principles of celestial phenomena.
Gain essential programming skills with Python, equipping you with tools used by professionals in the field.
Take your learning beyond the textbook and use the Breyo Observatory to capture and analyze images of stars and galaxies.
Dive deep into star formation, galaxy evolution, and the birth and death of the universe.
Careers You Can Pursue
With a Siena degree, the possibilities are vast. Graduates have gone on to become:
- Aerospace Research Scientists
- Astrophysicists
- Environmental Analysts
- Data Scientists
- And even Astronauts!
But that's just the beginning. Our program equips you with skills that are transferable across industries, making you a valuable asset in roles that haven't even been imagined yet.
Why Siena Stands Out
No Graduate Students: All research opportunities are yours. At other schools, you'd compete with graduate students; here, you take the lead.
Exceptional Faculty: Our professors aren't just educators; they're mentors who bring the latest physics education research into the classroom and who guide you on your journey from student to professional.
Hands-On Learning That Matters: From working at the Large Hadron Collider at CERN to using cutting-edge telescopes to explore dark energy, Siena provides experiences that few other schools can match.
