Master of Science (Astronomy)

The Master of Science (Astronomy) covers the fundamental concepts and ‘big questions’ of modern astronomy.

It equips students with an overall understanding of modern astronomy, rather than training as a professional astronomer.

Graduate Certificate of Science (Astronomy) Graduate Diploma of Science (Astronomy)

The Master of Science (Astronomy) qualifies individuals who apply an advanced body of knowledge in a range of contexts related to contemporary astronomy. The course provides individuals with the requisite academic knowledge, science communication and independent research project skills across an extensive range of astronomy and astronomy-related fields for professional practice or scholarship, 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.

• 9 Astronomy core units (112.5 credit points)
• 1 or 2 astronomy Major project options (either 12.5 or 25 credit points)
• 1 or 2 elective units (either 12.5 or 25 credit points)

Units of study

Complete 9 units of study (112.5 credit points)

AST80002 Astrophotography and CCD Imaging AST80003 Cosmology and the Large Scale Structure of the Universe AST80004 Exploring Stars and the Milky Way AST80005 Exploring the Solar System AST80006 Galaxies and their Place in the Universe AST80015 Planetary Science AST80016 Stellar Astrophysics AST80018 Tools of Modern Astronomy AST80013 Major Project: Observational Astronomy

Complete 1 or 2 of the following units (12.5 or 25 credit points)

AST80011 Major Project: Computational Astrophysics AST80012 Major Project: History of Astronomy AST80014 Major Project: Astronomy and Astrophysics

Complete 1 or 2 of the following units (12.5 or 25 credit points)

AST80001 Astrobiology and the Origins of Life AST80008 History of Astronomy AST80017 Studies in Space Exploration

* Outcome units - matched exemptions are generally not granted for higher education outcome units.

Swinburne Astronomy Online

Standard entry

• A recognised Bachelor degree, or higher, in a cognate discipline aligned to astronomy or related fields. Some examples include aerospace engineering and technology, computer science, earth sciences, information systems, mathematical sciences, optical science, physics and astronomy, radiography, radiology or
• For applicants who have a recognised Bachelor degree not aligned to astronomy or related fields, application can be made to enter the Graduate Certificate of Science (Astronomy) or
• Successful completion of the Graduate Certificate of Science (Astronomy) or the Graduate Diploma of Science (Astronomy)

All applicantsUpon 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).

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

• Interpret, analyse and evaluate credible resources to argue information, knowledge and critique on astronomy topics.
• Judge and apply problem solving methodologies to synthesise solutions that assess information and technical skills in astronomy.
• Apply and appraise communication skills to demonstrate an understanding of recent developments in astronomy.
• Demonstrate and appraise skills and knowledge of research principles and methods applicable to astronomy.
• Manage own time and work independently to design and construct a substantial research project work in astronomy.
• Demonstrate communication and technical skills, either individually or working as an effective member in a team to interpret and discriminate complex ideas in astronomy to specialist and non-specialist audiences.