General Information

Overview

The Master of Science (Astronomy) is suited to students who have an advanced knowledge of contemporary astronomy. The course provides individuals with the necessary academic knowledge, science communication, and research skills across astronomy and its related fields.

After graduating, students may work in a range of astronomy related fields for professional practice or gain a scholarship in this area.

Study structure

Successful completion of the Master of Science (Astronomy) requires students to complete units of study to the value of 150 credit points. All units of study are valued at 12.5 credit points unless otherwise stated.

  • Full-time study: 100 credit points/eight standard units of study per year

  • Part-time study: 50 credit points/four standard units of study per year

  • One credit point is equivalent to one hour of study per week per semester (including contact hours and private study)

  • See the course planner for an example degree structure 

  • Full-time study: 100 credit points/eight standard units of study per year

  • One credit point is equivalent to one hour of study per week per semester (including contact hours and private study)

  • See the course planner for an example degree structure.

Units of study Unit code
Core units
Exploring Stars and the Milky Way
Core unit, 12.5 credit points 		AST80004
Exploring the Solar System
Core unit, 12.5 credit points 		AST80005
Galaxies and their Place in the Universe
Core unit, 12.5 credit points 		AST80006
Astrobiology and the Origins of Life
Core unit, 12.5 credit points 		AST80001
Units of study Unit code
Core units
Astrophotography and CCD Imaging
Core unit, 12.5 credit points 		AST80002
Planetary Science
Core unit, 12.5 credit points 		AST80015
Studies in Space Exploration
Core unit, 12.5 credit points 		AST80017
Professional Tools for Astronomical Observation
Core unit, 12.5 credit points 		AST80018
Units of study Unit code
Core units
Cosmology and the Large Scale Structure of the Universe
Core unit, 12.5 credit points 		AST80003
Major Project - Computational Astrophysics
Core unit, 12.5 credit points 		AST80011
Major Project - Observational Astronomy
Core unit, 12.5 credit points 		AST80013
Stellar Astrophysics
Core unit, 12.5 credit points 		AST80016

Aims and objectives

  • 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 

Career opportunities

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.

Admission criteria

Information about Swinburne's general admission criteria can be found at Admissions at Swinburne - Higher Education webpage.

Interested in the Master of Science (Astronomy)?

From state-of-the-art facilities to opportunities to engage with industry – this course is designed with your future in mind. Let's get started.

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