Astrochemistry, Minor
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.
Requirements Accordion Open
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.
Overview Accordion Closed
In addition to University Requirements:
- Complete individual plan 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.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 23 |
| Highest Mathematics Required | MAT 137 |
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
- Evaluate our current understanding of the origin and evolution of matter throughout our universe, including the drivers of chemical diversity observed and modeled within our solar system and beyond.
- Understand how specific geological and astronomical processes modify the observed chemical makeup of solar system and exo-solar objects.
- Describe how chemical processes influence the habitability of planetary and astronomical bodies.
Details Accordion Closed
Minor Requirements
Take the following 23 units:*
*Students pursuing a BS in Astronomy, Chemistry, or Chemistry - American Chemical Society, have alternative requirements outlined below.
- Minor Requirements for Astronomy, BS Majors
- Minor Requirements for Chemistry, BS or Chemistry - American Chemical Society, BS Majors
Additional Information
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.