Bachelor of Science (Space Sc & Astrophysics)

University of Adelaide

About

Want to delve into the depths of our solar system?

Explore the universe’s most distant galaxies?This is the number one degree in South Australia for Astronomical and Space Sciences research, and has a 90% student satisfaction ranking*.

Structure

The program consists of core training in the disciplines of astronomy and space science, with a strong emphasis on physics. Students are given the flexibility to supplement this core with their choice of other science, geoscience, and mathematically based work. They will have direct exposure to professionals in the fields of space science and astrophysics, which enables them to form professional mentoring relationships. There are also opportunities to take part in project work with established scientists in the field and a six-week summer scholarship at the University or other institutions around Australia.

Academic Program Rules

The Calendar is a comprehensive handbook of the University's academic program rules.

Bachelor of Science (Space Sc & Astrophysics)

Example Study Plan

Indicative study plan Year1 S1 MATHS 1011: Mathematics IA PHYSICS 1100ND: Physics IA Approved Level I Elective 1 x 3 units COMP SCI 1101 Introduction to Programming*ORENG 1002 Programming (Matlab and C)* S2 MATHS 1012: Mathematics IB PHYSICS 1200ND: Physics IB PHYSICS 1007: Space Science and Astrophysics I COMP SCI 1101 Introduction to Programming*ORENG 1002 Programming (Matlab and C)*OR Year2 S1 MATHS 2101: Multivariable and Complex Calculus MATHS 2102: Differential Equations PHYSICS 2510: Physics IIA Approved Level II Elective 1 x 3 units S2 PHYSICS 2520: Physics IIB PHYSICS 2534: Electromagnetism II PHYSICS 2536: Space Science and Astrophysics II Approved Level II Elective 1 x 3 units Year 3 S1 PHYSICS 3532: Atmospheric and Astrophysics III PHYSICS 3542: Physics III Approved Level III Elective 1 x 3 units S2 PHYSICS 3002: Experimental Physics III Approved Level III Elective 2 x 3 unitsOR Approved Level III Elective 1 x 6 units Approved Level III Elective 1 x 3 units *one of these courses must be completed

Assessment

Varies with individual courses and includes a combination of assignments, reports, tests, practical work, tutorial preparation and exams.

Entry requirements

For those who are based in Adelaide, we will be offering a blended delivery mode that combines face-to-face with remote learning in as many courses as possible, taking into consideration social distancing and hygiene. All lectures will continue to be delivered online for the remainder of the year, with some exceptions.

For our students who are studying offshore for the remainder of the 2020 Academic Year, the University will continue to offer high-quality access to the learning resources remotely. This includes all lectures, tutorials and other support material. Students will be advised in advance if there are course components that cannot be provided in remote mode and, wherever possible, offered alternative courses.

Learning outcomes

Career Readiness

You’ll be set to gain employment in space and astrophysical research, physics, and high-tech research and development in:

  • defence agencies
  • government (Bureau of Meteorology)
  • national space agencies
  • research institutes
  • universities.

The University of Adelaide Careers Service prepares, inspires and empowers students to achieve successful career transitions and connect with industry.

Graduate Attributes

Adelaide Graduate Attributes
  1. Deep discipline knowledge
  2. Critical thinking and problem solving
  3. Teamwork and communication skills
  4. Career and leadership readiness
  5. Intercultural and ethical competency
  6. Self-awareness and emotional intelligence

Industry Placement

Potential careers

Atmospheric Chemist, Astronomer, Physicist, Aerospace Scientist, Defense Industry Scientist, Remote Sensing and GIS, Research Associates, Research Scientist, Environmental Scientist, Science Communicators, Science Educators, Scientific Data Analyst, Scientific Officer, Geophysics, Satellite Project Scientist, Space and Astrophysical Research, Space Scientist, Astrophysicist

Institution