Program Purpose: Students who complete Astronomy courses will be able to identify, compare and contrast physical properties of astronomical objects; visualize the general structure and scale of the universe and our place within it; locate, identify and contrast prominent astronomical objects in the night sky; identify and comprehend the purpose of elementary equations used in astronomy and describe the functions; and use of basic astronomical tools.

Program Description: Astronomers use the principles of physics and mathematics to answer questions about the fundamental nature of the universe and about celestial bodies such as the sun, moon, planets, and stars. They may apply their knowledge to problems in navigation and space flight.

Astronomy is the scientific study of celestial objects (such as stars, planets, comets, and galaxies) and phenomena that originate outside the Earth's atmosphere (such as the cosmic background radiation). It is concerned with the evolution, physics, chemistry, meteorology, and motion of celestial objects, as well as the formation and development of the universe. The introductory astronomy course transfers to the University of California and the California State University system and fulfills general education requirements in science.