<p>Astronomy is in no way a “lower” science (whatever that means). Astronomy is very well respected and is among the top-paying careers in the United States (on average). Astronomy can be considered the oldest science in existence. It’s extremely interesting (to me, at least) and many, many schools offer astronomy or astrophysics degrees. Besides government labs, astronomers work in universities and observatories.</p>
<p>The title of this thread confuses me. Whenever I tell normal people what I study, they get a glazed over expression on their face and exclaim that I must be so smart!</p>