Graduate Certificate of Science (Astronomy)

The Graduate Certificate of Science (Astronomy) is an online course and is part of a nested suite of programs which includes the Graduate Diploma of Science (Astronomy) and Master of Science (Astronomy), with different entry and exit points depending upon previous academic studies.

The Graduate Certificate of Science (Astronomy) is an online course and is part of a nested suite of programs which includes the:

Graduate Diploma of Science (Astronomy) Master of Science (Astronomy)

with different entry and exit points depending upon previous academic studies.

The Graduate Certificate of Science (Astronomy) qualifies individuals who apply a body of knowledge in a range of contexts related to contemporary astronomy. The course provides individuals with the requisite academic knowledge and science communication skills across a range of astronomy and astronomy-related fields for professional or highly skilled work, and as a pathway for further learning.

Many graduates use this qualification to begin or enhance opportunities in teaching, working in observatories, science centres and museums, and science/astronomy education, public outreach and communication positions.

To qualify for the award of Graduate Certificate of Science (Astronomy), students must complete four units of study (50 credit points) as follows:

• 3 astronomy core units (37.5 credit points)
• 1 elective unit (12.5 credit points)

Units of study

Complete three units (37.5 credit points):

AST80004 Exploring Stars and the Milky Way AST80005 Exploring the Solar System AST80006 Galaxies and their Place in the Universe

Select one unit from the following (12.5 credit points):

AST80001 Astrobiology and the Origins of Life AST80008 History of Astronomy AST80017 Studies in Space Exploration Elective single units of study are available to students. Find out more . Note: Not all of the above units will be offered every semester. Electives will usually be offered subject to satisfactory enrolment numbers. For further information about unit offerings, students should visit Swinburne Astronomy Online .

Upon successful completion of the Graduate Certificate of Science (Astronomy), students may apply to enter the Graduate Diploma of Science (Astronomy) or the Master of Science (Astronomy).

Relevant industry experience: If this includes work experience, documents substantiating work experience need to be provided on company letterhead and clearly detail roles as well as duties and duration of posts held.

At the successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• identify, interpret and analyse credible resources to present information, knowledge and critique on astronomy topics
• apply problem solving methodologies to synthesise solutions that demonstrate information and technical skills in astronomy
• apply communication skills to demonstrate an understanding of recent developments in astronomy
• demonstrate skills and knowledge of research principles and methods applicable to astronomy
• manage own time and work independently to investigate and communicate research in astronomy
• demonstrate communication and technical skills, either individually or working as an effective member in a team to interpret complex ideas in astronomy to specialist and non-specialist audiences.