Love the stars and universe etc.?

Question

I study ICT at college and probably Uni in a year but one of my dreams is to study the stars, planets and universe! Can this be done with A levels and degrees in ICT? Or is it best to study Maths and physics a dream for me would be traveling the world doing astronomy, but maybe its too late? Did i pick the wrong path back in the day? I got a levels in Sociology and Media studies to, argghh anybody got any clue on what i should do? As ICT is a very big area of work there must be something! or at least something similar, help me people! Thanks love to you all x

Answer 1

Yes, it looks like you had the wrong advice when it came to choosing your A-levels. I did media studies as well, and ending up doing a sociology degree - complete waste of time. I'm not saying I would have made an astrophysicist, however. You need a minimum of A-level maths and physics to start down the road to professional astronomy. There are a few specific astronomy/astrophysics (astrophysics is basically the modern term for astronomy) degree courses out there, but I believe most people choose the pure physics degrees first, before specialising in astrophysics at postgraduate level.

There is a lot of computing done in astrophysics, but A-level maths and physics are essential. Don't let me put you off, though. Ask the staff at your college for advice, they may know of a way around this.

Answer 2

Yeh as far as I can tell you, maths physics and chemistry are kind of vital for those studies.

I took the easy way out and I wish I had just given them a go, even if I did fail miserably, I would know a lot more now about that vital science.

Still go and ask some one at college about this subject, you might get in with your media savvy and social capabilities skills.

Good Luck to you and your family.

Answer 3

I had the same dream as a little girl, when I would look up into the night sky, and imagine all sorts of things.  When I went to college, I majored in maths and physics, and got to University, where I got my doctorate.  I now live my dream, and work as an astronomer and cosmologist, and have never regretted a moment!    By your post, I'd say you are British, and your system is a little different to ours.  I guess you could switch to physics, or continue with ICT, and apply for posts within the astronomy community.  However, to work in the field directly, physics would give you a better chance.  It will be hard work, but I'm sure that with application and dedication, you can make it.  Good luck!