<p>I have been interested in astronomy for awhile and I am wondering where are some of the best programs for an Astronomy major. So far I have heard UNC, Wisconsin, MIT. My GPA is 3.8 W so I would say UNC is a stretch as is for me. I live in the Mid-Atlantic states but I am willing to travel to California max distance. Thanks guys!</p>
<p>Astronomy has no job market in this economy. I suggest if you want useful skills you should at least major in astrophysics or for maximum benefits for job prospects go with aerospace engineering.</p>
<p>I received my BS in Astronomy from the University of Maryland College Park and believe it is an excellent program. The graduate program in Astronomy at UMCP is one of the top rated ones in the U.S. In California, The University of California campuses at Berkeley, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz(home of the Lick Observatory) and Riverside are all highly regarded in Astronomy. Cal tech, which operates the Mt. Palomar Observatory, is very highly rated in Astronomy. The University of Arizona is also strong in Astronomy and has access to very good facilities.</p>
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<p>The Lick Observatory is not in Santa Cruz. It is in unincorporated Santa Clara County east of San Jose, about an hour and a half drive from Santa Cruz over various mountain roads.</p>