Astronomy encompasses the most interesting physical phenomena in the universe, from the atmospheres of planets, to the discovery and characterization of planets orbiting other stars, the nature of galaxies and the stars within them, the supermassive black holes at the centers of large galaxies, and the way the universe came to be the way it is. Astronomy and Physics (A and P) majors gain a broad knowledge of the principles of astronomy and physics, including planets in the solar system, stars and star formation, the nature of the interstellar medium, galaxies and cosmology, mechanics, electricity and magnetism, statistical mechanics, quantum mechanics, and mathematical methods of physics. A and P students learn to communicate astronomical information effectively, both in writing and verbally, to a variety of audiences and to think critically and evaluate, interpret, and solve problems related to astronomy, physics, and general scientific topics. The A and P BA is a pathway to research-oriented careers that prepares students for either immediate workforce entry or further, graduate-level study in astronomy and related sciences. Students who are interested in applying to graduate school to study astronomy or astrophysics are generally advised to choose this major.