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How to Become an Astrophysicist (Requirements and Skills

Pursuing a career in astrophysics can be rewarding, especially if you're interested in studying various aspects of the universe, such as astronomical events and celestial bodies. Becoming an astrophysicist can be a good option if you're passionate about learning astronomy, applying physics and mathematics in solving related problems, and investing your time in research projects. Learning about the requirements to become an astrophysicist is an advantage if you plan to pursue a career in the field. In this article, we discuss how to become an astrophysicist and describe their responsibilities and skills.
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How to become an astrophysicist

Below are four steps on how to become an astrophysicist that you can follow:
1. Obtain a bachelor's degree

Formal education is important and the foremost requirement for becoming an astrophysicist. This can provide you with all the necessary theoretical knowledge. The first step is completing a bachelor's degree and majoring in a study of relevance, such as astrophysics, astronomy, or physics. There are educational institutions throughout the country that offer an astrophysics program, including:

    University of Alberta:

This university offers an astrophysics program that awards students a Bachelor of Science with Honors degree upon completion. Another option is obtaining a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree specializing in astrophysics.

Western University:

This school's Faculty of Science has a physics and astronomy department that offers the opportunity to obtain an honours bachelor's degree or a bachelor's degree in astrophysics, depending on the number of specified courses or modules you complete. You can take astrophysics as a specialization, major, or minor.

University of Toronto:

This university offers undergraduate programs that enable students to earn a Bachelor of Science degree focusing on astrophysics, astronomy, and physics. You can enrol in an astronomy and physics specialist program or take astronomy and astrophysics as a major or a minor.

Ontario Tech University:

    This school provides students with the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree in astrophysics. There's also an undergraduate program in astrophysics that leads to a Bachelor of Science and Management degree, which is suitable for students with interest in assuming leadership roles in the applied sciences.

Coursework in science and mathematics can prepare you for entry into a master's program, which is another requirement for many astrophysicists. You can also apply for and complete internships while you're completing your studies. These can give you experience that can help you succeed in your chosen profession and enable you to network with other professionals in the field, which can expand your employment opportunities.

Related: 7 Bachelor of Science Degrees (With Relevant Career Options)
2. Pursue advanced degrees

A master's degree allows you to meet the requirement to become an astrophysicist. A master's in astronomy or astrophysics is often mandatory for hiring organizations. Either of these typically takes two years to finish and focuses on both observational and theoretical studies of astrophysics.

Obtaining a doctorate in astrophysics is ideal and can give you a competitive edge in the job market. To complete a doctoral program, it's usually necessary to complete a dissertation that you present and defend in front of a panel. Here are three educational institutions with graduate programs in astrophysics and related areas of study:

    University of Calgary:

This university's graduate program culminates in a Master of Science (MSc) degree in physics and astronomy. This is a thesis-based program that usually takes two years of full-time study to complete.

University of Toronto:

This university's Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics offers a five-year direct-entry doctoral program to which you can gain admission if you possess a bachelor's degree from a recognized university and have completed advanced courses in physics and mathematics. There's also a program for individuals with an MSc degree in astronomy and astrophysics or a related discipline.

University of Lethbridge:

    This institution offers a four-year graduate program that allows you to earn a doctorate in earth, space, and physical science upon completing the degree's requirements. These include coursework focusing on the physical sciences, a thesis, and a comprehensive exam.

Related: What Do Astronomers Do? (With Duties, Salary, and Skills)
3. Prepare a resume and cover letter

Before looking for a job opening in astrophysics, it's advisable to prepare a strong resume and cover letter. A cover letter highlights your passion for the profession and interest in the astrophysicist position for which you're applying. It also discusses how you're a good fit for the job and the organization. A resume highlights your skills, experience, and other qualifications that match the employer's requirements and preferences for an ideal candidate.

Related: What Are Applied Sciences? (With Careers and Salaries)
4. Apply for a job as an astrophysicist

You can search for job openings online or inquire about opportunities in the field from professional organizations. When applying, make sure to send a well-written cover letter and resume that match the requirements of the job. For example, if the job posting states that the organization seeks an astrophysicist with experience in conducting research, highlight your research experience in your application.