Astrochemistry combines a broad astronomical perspective with fundamental organic and inorganic chemistry. The wide variety of courses available through this minor option highlights the interdisciplinary nature of this growing and critically important field and emphasizes the unique avenues that students can pursue to gain a strong foundational background. Students minoring in Astrochemistry will be prepared to provide a cosmic perspective to more traditional chemical fields, while this strong background will also enable students to truly appreciate the uniqueness of Earth and comparisons to other planetary bodies both within and outside of our own solar system.
Students minoring in Astrochemistry will benefit from a strong foundation in astronomical and chemical principles. This foundation will prepare students for fields in industry, laboratories, research facilities, government organizations, K-12 education, and academia. As a minor, this degree is designed to provide broad perspectives and a foundational appreciation for the scale of space and challenges that may arise in the investigation of astrochemistry. Skills including creativity, problem solving, teamwork, and concept integration are emphasized in this degree and would help to broadly and holistically prepare students for their future endeavors, specifically in technological and scientific fields of high and emerging growth. NASA has also deemed Astrochemistry as an area of important research growth, as is evident by the number of astrochemistry-related federally funded grants awarded over the past decade.
A minor is earned in conjunction with a bachelor's degree.
To receive a minor (18 - 24 units) at Northern Arizona University, you must complete a planned group of courses from one or more subject matter areas with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0. At least 12 units of the minor must be unique to that minor and not applied to any other minor.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
No more than fifty percent of the units used to satisfy minor requirements may be used to satisfy major requirements.
| Highest Mathematics Required | MAT 137 |
| Minimum Units for Completion | 23 |
Purpose Statement
The purpose of this minor in Astrochemistry is to combine a broad astronomical perspective and understanding to students with interests in fundamental organic and inorganic chemistry. The wide variety of electives available through this minor option highlights the interdisciplinary nature of this growing and critically important field and emphasizes the unique avenues that students can pursue to gain a strong foundational background. Specific courses in astronomical principles as well as physical chemistry, environmental chemistry, analytical chemistry, and biochemistry will constitute the bulk of the required coursework. Students minoring in Astrochemistry will be prepared to provide a cosmic perspective to more traditional chemical fields, while this strong background will also enable students to truly appreciate the uniqueness of Earth and comparisons to other planetary bodies both within and outside of our own solar system.
Student Learning Outcomes
Take the following 23 units:*
*Students pursuing a BS in Astronomy, Chemistry, or Chemistry - American Chemical Society, have alternative requirements outlined below.
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.