Which College Shines for Astronomy Major?

The stars are kind of my thing, and I'm thinking about pursuing an astronomy major for college. Does anyone know which colleges excel in this field? Are certain programs more well-regarded than others? What's your experience?

For those interested in an astronomy major, there are a number of colleges that are particularly well-regarded in this field. Some of these include the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Harvard University, and the University of California - Berkeley.

Caltech has a strong reputation for its rigorous physics and astronomy programs. It also boasts of astronomical observatories and research centers, giving students ample opportunities for hands-on learning, research, and internships. Being located in Pasadena, it's close to NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, which provides a unique advantage.

Harvard, on the other hand, has the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, a joint venture with the Smithsonian Institution. Here, astronomy students can collaborate with some of the best minds in the field.

The University of California - Berkeley also has a notable astronomy program. UC Berkeley's location allows for a unique combination of on-campus observatories and close ties to nearby Lick and Keck observatories.

It's important to remember that the college you choose should also be a good fit for you overall, not just in your intended major. Consider the location, size, culture, cost, and other aspects of the schools you're considering. As for experiences, I've heard from many students who appreciated the hands-on experiences, rigorous coursework, and opportunities to perform high level research in these programs.