Astronomy Major — Salary & ROI 2026
Study of celestial objects, space phenomena, and the universe.
Starting Salary
$52K
median
Mid-Career
$88K
salary
ROI Payback
5.5 yrs
avg payback
Unemployment
4.5%
rate
Astronomy Overview
Study of celestial objects, space phenomena, and the universe.
Category
STEM
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Graduation Rate
62%
Enrollment Trend
stable
Online Available
Limited
Underemployment
25%
Lifetime Premium
$500K
Female Graduates
30%
Astronomy Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your actual return on investment based on school type and scholarships.
0 to $40K/year in aid
Est. Total Cost
$18,900
4-year tuition
Net Cost (w/ aid)
$18,900
after scholarships
ROI Payback
1 years
to break even
Lifetime Return
$481,100
Lifetime earnings premium ($500,000) minus net degree cost ($18,900)
Astronomy Salary Progression
Common Astronomy Careers
Astronomer
Research Scientist
Data Analyst
Top Employers
Skills You'll Learn
Top Schools for Astronomy
#1
Caltech
#2
MIT
#3
Princeton
#4
Harvard
#5
University of Arizona
Related Majors
Astronomy Degree FAQ
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