How difficult is it to get into astro/cosmology?

  • Thread starter Thread starter amesoeurs
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

Entering the field of cosmology presents significant challenges, particularly in securing employment within astronomy. Despite the competitive nature of the job market, obtaining a Ph.D. in cosmology is relatively straightforward, and acquiring a faculty position is comparable to other astronomy disciplines, such as planetary science. Critical thinking skills developed through philosophy courses can provide an advantage for aspiring researchers. Engaging in foundational courses, such as second-year astronomy, is essential for building a solid knowledge base.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic astrophysics concepts
  • Familiarity with cosmological principles and theories
  • Critical thinking skills developed through philosophy
  • Completion of introductory physics courses
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the requirements for a Ph.D. in cosmology
  • Explore career paths in astronomy and related fields
  • Study advanced topics in astrophysics and cosmology
  • Engage in research opportunities or internships in astronomy
USEFUL FOR

First-year physics students, aspiring cosmologists, philosophy students interested in science, and anyone considering a career in astronomy.

amesoeurs
Messages
5
Reaction score
0
Hi all

I'm a first year physics student at UQ in Australia with a strong interest in philosophy (I'm taking intro philosophy this semester and philosophy of modern physics next semester, a second year course).

I have a friend who's starting his honours project in cosmology, but he's incredibly smart. Perfect GPA for all his third year courses and he reads a lot. I'd love to get into research like that. Anyone have some tips? I think reading and philosophy, and the critical thinking skills I gain from it will give me a good edge. I'm starting second year astro next semester too (it's still first semester in Australia).
 
Physics news on Phys.org
As a career? Cosmology is very difficult to get into. There are hundreds of threads on this forum about the difficulties of getting a job in astronomy generally.
 
fasterthanjoao said:
As a career? Cosmology is very difficult to get into. There are hundreds of threads on this forum about the difficulties of getting a job in astronomy generally.

However, it's not hard to get a Ph.D. in cosmology, and getting a faculty position in cosmology is no more difficult than getting a position in any other field of astronomy (like for example planetary science).

The important thing about cosmology is not to get too philosophical and abstract.
 

Similar threads

Other Undergraduate 3rd Year - Need some Academic / Career Advice
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K
Physics Lost undergrad looking for advice on career path and grad school
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
Physics Should I graduate one semester early?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Job Skills Recent BS in Comp Sci graduate looking to get into fusion
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
PhD in astro to become a data scientist?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Physics Medical Physics: is it worth it?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
6K
Admissions What are my chances for PhD in physics after my MSc physics?
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
Math How important is it to understand math?
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
3K
Engineering Getting started late - how do I catch up? (Mechanical Engineering)
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
4K
Physics Starting my PhD in cosmology -- question about my career prospects
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
5K