Astronomer/Cosmologist/Astrophysicist: what are the differences?

[scallywag]

I am in the southern california area, and am interested in pursuing a career in the field of...well the universe. what are some recommendations on how to get started, the universe is a big place, so i'm stuck with the question of how/where to start. point me in the right direction? pretty please:confused::eyebrow:

[ajb]

Get a good degree in physics, astronomy, cosmology or mathematics (or some combination). Then get an MSc in physics/astronomy/cosmology/astrophysics etc, or if you can get onto a PhD program in the same. After the MSc get onto a PhD program.

 

Then after lots of hard work and a bit of luck you can become a professional physicist/astronomer/cosmologist etc.

 

You could enter "space science" from an engineering/computing angle also.

[prodigenius]

naturally I'm biased since I go there, but you should check out harvey mudd college. it's not as well known as caltech or major universities, but there's a good focus on undergraduates and I got into physics research with awesome professors my freshman year. good luck.