Schools What are the top universities for Cosmology?

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Top undergraduate universities for a major in cosmology, excluding Ivy League institutions, often do not offer a dedicated cosmology major. Instead, a strong foundation in physics and mathematics is essential, with specialization occurring at the graduate level. The reputation of the undergraduate institution is less critical than the quality of its physics program. Students should seek universities with active cosmology research groups, as hands-on experience and research opportunities are vital for building a competitive CV for graduate school applications. Institutions like UC Irvine, which has a Center for Cosmology, exemplify this approach, providing access to faculty engaged in cosmological research. The focus should be on selecting a university with a robust physics program and faculty involved in cosmology or related fields.
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What are the top undergrad universities for a major in Cosmology minus Ivy?
 
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I'm not sure that there are any universities where you can major in cosmology (and even if there are, I'm not sure that they will be advantageous: it's best to get a strong undergrad knowledge of physics/maths and then specialise later).
 
Realistically, it doesn't matter much on what Undergraduate university you attend. As long as it has a physics program that interests you and is a strong program.

Also, if you are really interested in cosmology, try looking for universities where they have people working in cosmology (or a related-field). Places like UC Irvine have a group of people who are working in this field under the name of Center for Cosmology, Department of Physics & Astronomy. It is really important to be in a place with cosmologists since you want to include undergraduate research in cosmology on your CV when applying to grad school (if that is the path you wish to take).

My main advice is: (1) pick a university with a suitable physics program; (2) try to pick one that has cosmologists working there (not necessarily having an academic cosmology program).
 

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