Astronomy and Planetary Science | Saint Anselm College

The Astronomy and Planetary Science Minor

This minor provides a foundation in astronomy and planetary science. Students are introduced to the sciences of astronomy and geology through two introductory courses. Then students choose three courses depending on their focus. Some courses can come from the General Physics or Calculus-based Physics course sequence and Modern Physics. Other available courses explore more advanced astronomical concepts or an introductory course in Weather and Climate. Astronomical or geological research projects or special topics courses can be included for this minor with department approval.

Required courses

PS 201 Geology

One astronomy course from the following list:

PS 101 Astronomy
PS 222 Life Beyond Earth
PS 384 Astrophysics

Three technical electives, at least two of which are 200-level courses or above, from the following list:

PS 103 Weather and Climate
PS 121 General Physics I
PS 122 General Physics II
PS 131 Calculus Based Physics I
PS 132 Calculus Based Physics II
PS 202 Planetary Science
PS 211 Remote Sensing
PS 222 Life Beyond Earth
PS 231 Modern Physics
PS 384 Astrophysics
PS 400 Independent Study (with an astronomy or planetary focus)
PS 449 Topics in Physics (with an astronomy or planetary focus)
PS 452 Research in Physics (with an astronomy or planetary focus)