ASTR 1210

Murphy was great - he has the ability to explain any concept clearly and answers questions in class well. Easy class overall.

Two mandatory labs at night, a midterm and final, clicker questions during the semester so attendance becomes necessary, online homework due weekly. Murphy is excited about Astronomy-- the course is doable for non-science majors

This can be a "trap" course if you decide to put in zero effort. Although, you sort of bottom out at a B even if you do terrible but not horrific on the exams, so definitely take if you're up to the task. A can be attained if you simply read the book and stay actively involved in learning process through the entire course.

The professor is adorably goofy, but isn't one for jokes. Personality aside, the class was definitely manageable, even for one who didn't put in much effort. As long as you do the homework, somewhat regularly attend class (due to clicker questions), and scan the book so you know what's happening in class, you should do completely fine. I didn't study for any of the tests and got a B in the class.

Fun class. Every quiz is multiple choice, but they are tricky. Two night labs are required.

Murphy is absolutely adorable. He truly loves this subject and it reflects in his lectures. Unfortunately I don't have a real interest in astronomy, so I didn't put much effort into the course, which ended up being a bad idea. Make sure you attend class (clicker questions), read the textbook, and do your two required night labs on time (they're pass/fail, so it's pretty manageable!) and you should be fine. Try to stay awake in class! It's hard, especially because most people around you don't pay attention, but being alert is a better idea, I promise.

I was told this class was an easy A but that is definitely not the case! The material seems easy but the quiz questions are tricky and sometimes I feel like they don't represent what we learned. The two labs and participation grades are free points though

Great professor! Favorite class in UVA!! His class is always well-organized and clear. And you will definitely find the materials fun!! Strongly recommended!!

I loved this class! Show up to lecture and get 100 clicker points and you'll do fine. Prof. Murphy is really enthusiastic about the material which helps since it's kind of dry and boring. The nighttime labs weren't that bad and there is minimal reading. An easy science course for non-science/math majors!

Astronomy is a fun subject to begin with, but Murphy makes it even more enjoyable. He is really passionate about the material and is always excited to share news articles and clips from current space endeavors. As far as the class goes, Mastering Astronomy is easy and the two labs are a breeze (but still really fun). Quizzes can trip you up if you don't read.