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Experience hands-on lessons using advanced technology in the Astronomy program at JCCC. Share your passion for the stars with other students and learn from dedicated faculty members.

What will I learn in JCCC's Astronomy program?

The Astronomy program at Johnson County Community College provides you with a galaxy of different career options once you graduate.

It's more than peering through telescopes at the sky. When you study astronomy, you’ll expand your knowledge and understanding of the sun, moon, planets, stars and other deep space objects. Earn science credits and expand your horizons with an astronomy education from JCCC.

The following JCCC Astronomy courses are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents to transfer to any Kansas postsecondary public institution. They will also transfer to many other four-year schools. These courses are as follows:

  • ASTR 120 Fundamentals of Astronomy: ASTR 120 is an online course that offers 3 credit hours. Consider choosing this option if you’ve already fulfilled your science lab requirement and would like to learn more supplemental information, or if you want a more flexible schedule.
  • ASTR 122 Astronomy: ASTR 122 is on campus and offers 4 credit hours. You will have the opportunity to use five 45-minute observing sessions to gaze at the cosmos. This class can also fulfill your science lab requirement.

Why JCCC for Astronomy?

JCCC offers both online and on-campus classes to start your studies in the Astronomy program. Enjoy the flexibility of online courses that can be scheduled to fit your lifestyle. On the other hand, on-campus classes feature lectures, labs, and time in our fully equipped Paul Tebbe Observatory.

Located five stories high on the roof of the Classroom Laboratory Building (CLB), the Paul Tebbe Observatory is comparable to those you'd find at many four-year schools. It features:

  • Two mounted 12-inch reflecting telescopes and removable hydrogen-alpha filters for observing the sun
  • Four 8-inch reflecting telescopes can be placed on one of the two other hard mounts on the observing deck or upon portable tripods
  • Astronomical CCD cameras for creating remarkable, detailed images
  • A dedicated, portable solar telescope with a built-in hydrogen-alpha filter
  • A special camera to track nearby meteor traffic and trajectories
  • Red lights to maximize night vision during observations

Looking for an even deeper learning experience? Consider applying for an Honors contract or independent study. JCCC’s Astronomy program allows you to work with a knowledgeable faculty mentor to pursue a topic of study or design and complete a research project.

Join other successful JCCC students Apply now

At JCCC, the Astronomy program expands your skillset and knowledge of physics, mathematics, computer programming, and statistics. These skills are in demand, especially for many high-paying job positions. If you go on to get a bachelor’s degree in astronomy, you can pursue a rewarding career as a:

  • Science educator
  • Laboratory technician
  • Computer programmer
  • Science journalist

You may choose to work in national observatories, research centers, private industries, museums or planetariums. You can also choose to enter a graduate program and continue toward becoming a professional astronomer. Make an appointment with an Academic Counselor who specializes in this program to learn more about your options.


 

The cost of going to college can drastically impact your ability to succeed. At Johnson County Community College, we want our students to be able to afford a program that they love. That’s why we’re constantly working to make tuition more affordable for you.

Here’s what JCCC has to offer Astronomy students:

Textbook and other supply costs vary depending on your courses.

There are several things to consider when budgeting for college. Visit our Cost of Attendance page for detailed information.

Resources and Tools at JCCC

In addition to tutoring and small class sizes, there are several resources available to you as a JCCC student. 

Our Financial Aid office can help you make a plan to pay for your schooling including the use of scholarships and student loans. 

Our Career Development Center and Academic Counseling services ensure your degree in astronomy aligns with your long-term career goals. 

You may also decide to transfer your credits to another university later. Transferring allows you to further your studies and knowledge through various other programs and career paths.