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Office of the Associate Dean, Undergraduate Studies

McMaster Academic Planner (MAP) - Faculty of Science

Honours Astrophysics

An Honours Astrophysics degree is a good choice for anyone who is curious and seeks an understanding of the world both at its most fundamental level and on its largest scale.

Training in astrophysics provides transferable skills in experimental design, modelling, big data analysis, computing, scientific communication, critical thinking and problem solving. Because of this, our graduates find employment in many different fields: research, industry, education, software development, medicine, law, finance, etc.

Program Type

Honours Bachelor of Science

Degree at Graduation

Limited Enrollment

Learn More About Level 2 Program Types

Admission Requirements

Enrolment in this program is limited.

Admission is by selection but requires, as a minimum, completion of any Level 1 program with a Grade Point Average of at least 5.0 including:

  • 2 courses from MATH 1A03, 1AA3, 1LS3, 1LT3, 1X03 and 1XX3
  • 1 course from PHYSICS 1A03 and 1C03
  • 1 course from PHYSICS 1AA3 and 1CC3
  • CHEM 1A03
  • 3 courses from the Science 1 Course List

Typical Second-Year Courses

PHYSICS 2B03

Electricity and Magnetism 1

PHYSICS 2BB3

Electricity and Magnetism 2

PHYSICS 2C03

Modern Physics

PHYSICS 2E03

Mechanics

PHYSICS 2P03

Introductory Laboratory

MATH 2X03

Advanced Calculus 1

MATH 2C03

Introduction to Differential Equations

ASTRON 2E03

Planetary Astronomy

Career Opportunities

Honours Astrophysics students develop a range of skills that are easily transferred to a wide range of careers.

Graduates have pursued careers in the following areas:

  • Astrophysics/Biology
  • Biophysics
  • Data Science/IT
  • Science Communication
  • Financial Risk Analysis
  • Materials Innovation
  • Medical Physics
  • Nuclear Industry
  • Quantum Materials
  • Software Development
  • Space Industry