Astronomy

An acute need for young scientists in the field of astronomy is present. The following possibilities are open for a career for a physics/mathematics/engineering graduate with a specialisation or a Ph.D in Astronomy & Astrophysics.
Research Scientist
Several research institutes and government organizations employ research scientists in various academic grades for research-oriented programmes.
University and Faculty
There will be more openings in the universities, especially in physics departments, for specialists in Astronomy & Astrophysics.
Industry
Experience with sophisticated astronomical instrumentation and the expertise gained in computer programming and handling data can serve as valuable assets for jobs in the industry.

Step 1: Obtain a Bachelor's degree in science subject
This is the first step required to get in to the field of astronomy. After higher secondary, candidate should obtain a Bachelor's degree in science subjects such as physics / chemistry/ mathematics. Apart from these, some universities offer under graduation course in astronomy. If the candidate is interested in doing M.Tech courses related to astronomy, then he/ she can opt for engineering stream. Engineering courses in streams like electronics and communication engineering, electrical and electronics engineering and computer science engineering will help one to have master level courses in the field of astronomy.
Step 2: Obtain a Post Graduate degree
Those who have completed their graduation in Science subjects such as Astronomy or Physics or Chemistry or Mathematics can look for master level courses like M.Sc. Astronomy, M.Sc. Astronomy and Space Physics, etc. Engineering graduates in any of the above mentioned streams should pursue courses like M.Tech (Space Technology and Applications), and M.Tech + PhD (Astronomical Instrumentation). Reputed institutions like Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Sri Venkateswara University, etc. Offer this kind of master level courses. M.Sc programs on streams of astrophysics, astrometeorology, astrometry, astrobiology, astrogeology, etc. are also suitable to build up a career in astronomy.
Step 3: Search for a career in astronomy
After completing educational programs related to Astronomy, candidate can search for a lucrative career in the field. At entry level one can get in to the role of Junior Research Fellow, Research Trainee, etc. Job positions exist in firms like NASA, Association of Bangalore Amateur Astronomers (ABAA), Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), and Indian Space Research organisation (ISRO). Department of Science and Technology, Government of India also offer enough career openings. Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), Technology Information, Forecasting and Assessment Council (TIFAC), etc. are some other firms offering rewarding jobs in this field.

Eligibility for M.Sc in Astronomy
The minimum eligibility required to be met for admission to the course is B.Sc or an equivalent degree with a minimum aggregate score of 50%. A few universities and colleges in India conduct entrance examinations for admission to the course.
M.Sc in Astronomy: Admission Process
Most of the institutes offering the course in India admit students on the basis of their performance in the relevant entrance test. Such institutions/ universities conduct their own entrance tests for offering admission. However, the admission process varies from college to college.
M.Sc in Astronomy: Academic Options
Upon the successful completion of the course, successful postgraduates interested in higher studies in the discipline may go for pursuing M.Phil/ Ph.D in the subject. Successful postgraduates of the course also have the option of joining non-profit organizations like the Association of Bangalore Amateur Astronomers (ABAA), involved in telescope making, organizing observation sessions for the public and popularization of astronomy.