天体物理学选修课旨在让学生了解当今的天文学基本事实和概念，激发人们对研究的兴趣，并为天文学/天体物理学的研究生工作提供基础。
We teach undergraduate-level courses in astronomy and astrophysics, targeted at those majoring in astronomy, although there are a number of more generic courses that may be of interest to undergraduates in other areas. With the goal of understanding the physical processes that govern the universe, its constituents, and their origins and evolution, astronomy uses the apparatus and methodology of physics to gather and interpret data. Theoretical work and technology development round out astrophysics. The undergraduate astrophysics option is designed to give the student an understanding of the basic facts and concepts of astronomy today, to stimulate his or her interest in research, and to provide a basis for graduate work in astronomy/astrophysics. The primary aim of the graduate astrophysics program is to prepare students for creative and productive careers in astrophysical research. The program consists of core class work in a broad range of astrophysics subject areas then emphasizes independent research. Students are free to pursue study in virtually any area of astrophysics. The opportunity exists to take advantage of the many observational facilities owned and operated by Caltech.