Astronomers

Median salary, education path, job outlook, and related careers — based on U.S. labor data.

What a Astronomers does

Astronomers observe and study stars, planets, galaxies, and the universe using telescopes and data analysis. They conduct research to understand cosmic phenomena and may teach, publish findings, or work on NASA missions.

Education & path

The typical entry point is a doctoral degree. About 8+ years of higher education.

Estimated cost of that path: ~$110,000. Estimated payback: ~4 years. Estimates only — actual cost varies widely by school and financial aid; payback assumes ~20% of income applied.

Related careers

• Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists — $103,410/yr
• Occupational Health and Safety Specialists — $90,150/yr
• Environmental Restoration Planners — $82,220/yr
• Industrial Ecologists — $82,220/yr
• Climate Change Policy Analysts — $82,220/yr