Astronomy Opportunities

Experiential learning opportunities for astronomy students

Undergraduate Research

One of the most in-depth experiential opportunities available to Astronomy students is independent research within a faculty member’s research group.

On-campus Opportunities

Astronomy students participate in research on-campus during the academic year and in the summer. Funding may exist to support your research; deadlines for funding vary depending on the fellowship/stipend.
Department of Astronomy list of faculty with research opportunities for undergraduates
Department of Astronomy list of research areas and research groups
EUREKA - a searchable database of opportunities and faculty research interests at UT 

Off-campus Opportunities

These programs often take place over 8-10 weeks in the summer and many times include a stipend and housing/travel support. They are competitive and require an application. Application deadlines and requirements vary, but are usually due in January or February and require at least one recommendation. 
National Science Foundation Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) in Astronomical Sciences
American Astronomical Society listing of summer programs
UT Department of Astronomy list of relevant summer programs in Astronomy  
Summer Research Opportunities at Harvard University
Pathways to Sciences list of summer programs in Astronomy and Astrophysics
Caltech LIGO SURF Summer Undergraduate Reseach Fellowships
Yale Undergraduate Research Scholarship

Resources for Getting Involved and Funding a Research Experience

Internships

The purpose of an internship is to gain valuable skills and experience, explore and refine your career interests, and network with professionals in your field.  Also, internships allow you to apply concepts you have learned in the classroom in a real-world, work environment.  

CNS Career Services is your college resource for career exploration and internships. 

The Office of Experiential Learning offers weekly drop-in advising/consultations over Zoom for students who would like to discuss strategies for getting involved in experiential learning activities and connecting with CNS and campus resources. CNS undergraduates are invited to make an appointment with our team to learn more. The list below is a sample of opportunities and is not exhaustive.

Study Abroad

Study abroad programs provide Astronomy majors with access to interesting and relevant courses around the world. Immerse yourself in a new culture while earning credits toward your degree.

The Office of Experiential Learning offers weekly drop-in advising/consultations for CNS students seeking opportunities.

Study Abroad by Major Guides

MyCreditAbroad database lists Astronomy courses abroad with UT course equivalents
CNS Research and Internships Abroad
UT Study Abroad Semester and Summer Internship Programs

Short-term Programs
Semester-long Programs
RISE Research Internships in Science and Engineering

Entrepreneurship

CNS students can engage in entrepreneurial activities both in and out of the classroom. The Office of Experiential Learning offers weekly drop-in advising/consultations for CNS students seeking opportunities.

CNS Inventors Program
Entrepreneurship Resources Across Campus
Bridging Disciplines Programs – Innovation, Creativity & Innovation