If you are interested in being an astronaut it is generally a requirement to have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, biological science, physical science, computer science or mathematics. It is also very handy to know another language, in particular Russian and Chinese. Usually there is a requirement to have a minimum amount of pilot flying time. Finally, some level of medical knowledge is generally required.
Thinking about what to study at university
The space sector needs everything from doctors, insurance providers and lawyers to engineers and scientists – being an astronaut is not the only job! But of course there are dedicated courses to space:
- Physics with Astronomy and Space Science (UCD): https://www.myucd.ie/courses/science/physics-with-astronomy-space-science/
- Astrophysics (UCC): https://www.ucc.ie/en/ck408/astrophysics/
- Physics and Astrophysics (TCD): https://www.tcd.ie/Physics/study/prospective/undergraduate/physics-astrophysics/
- Physics and Astronomy (UCC): https://www.ucc.ie/en/ck408/
Bachelor of Science (Physics – degree options in Applied, Astrophysics, Biomedical, Theoretical) (NUIG): http://www.nuigalway.ie/courses/undergraduate-courses/physics-with-options.html
Bachelors in Physics with Astronomy (DCU): https://www.dcu.ie/courses/undergraduate/physics/physics-astronomy.shtml
Physics with Astrophysics (Maynooth): https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/study-maynooth/undergraduate-studies/courses/bsc-physics-astrophysics