About Swinburne Astronomy Online

Since 1999, SAO has offered a comprehensive curriculum that dives deep into the wonders of modern astronomy, exploring cutting-edge discoveries and tackling the biggest questions in the cosmos. SAO is tailored for a wide audience – science educators, astronomy communicators, professionals in astronomy-adjacent fields, dedicated amateur astronomers, and anyone driven by curiosity about the stars.

Our flexible, online format empowers you to build not only your astronomy expertise, but also your skills in communicating complex scientific ideas to others. With students joining from across the world – including the USA, Canada, the UK, Europe and Australia – SAO is vibrant, international community of learners.

SAO is proudly offered by Swinburne's Centre for Astrophysics and Supercomputing (CAS) – one of Australia's most respected and active hubs for astronomy education and research. With a global reputation, the centre houses an elite team of reseach-active astronomers, including highly cited (HiCi) researchers whose work ranks in the top one percent worlwide and scientists among the top two percent globally.

Why study with Swinburne Astronomy Online

Connect with leading experts, gain insights into the latest discoveries and become part of a vibrant global community passionate about exploring the cosmos.

Research-active astronomers

CAS houses a team of highly cited reseachers and scientists that you can engage with during your studies.

5 out of 5 for research excellence

CAS has routinely rated "well above world standard" for research in astronomical and space science.

Excellence for Research for Australia

Top rankings in Australia for teaching

Swinburne is ranked first for education experience and second for teaching quality for science in Australia.

Good Universities Guide 2024

What you can study

Whether you're aiming to advance your career, broaden your knowledge or fuel a lifelong passion, SAO opens to the door to a world of cosmic exploration. Choose to pursue a degree or simply immerse yourself in one of our introductory courses – all online.

Our courses do not involve final exams. Assessment includes newsgroup discussions, essays and online tests throughout the semester. Newsgroup discussions are asynchronous – allowing you to join anytime at your convenience.

Single units

We also offer individual units that runs for 12 weeks plus an orientation week prior.

Learn more about single units

Our teaching staff

Currently leading groundbreaking research at the forefront of astrophysics and bringing world-class insights directly to your learning experience, our academic staff include:

  • Professor Matthew Bailes – former CAS Director and co-recipient of the prestigious 2023 Shaw Prize in Astronomy
  • Dr Sara Webb – Course Director of SAO and Mission Director for the Swinburne Youth Space Innovation Challenge

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Need more information?

If you have any questions about Swinburne Astronomy Online, please email Dr Sara Webb at swebb@swinburne.edu.au.

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