About Swinburne Astronomy Online
Since 1999, Swinburne Astronomy Online (SAO) has brought the Universe within reach of curious minds worldwide. Its comprehensive curriculum explores astronomy's foundations and history, the latest discoveries, and some of science's biggest unanswered questions. Whether you are a science educator, astronomy communicator, professional in an astronomy-related field, dedicated amateur astronomer, or simply fascinated by the cosmos, SAO offers an opportunity to deepen your understanding of the Universe.
Study astronomy on your terms. Our flexible online format lets you study from anywhere in the world, with no scheduled lecture times, making SAO accessible to people balancing study with work, family, and other commitments. Our diverse student community spans the USA, Canada, the UK, Europe, Australia and beyond, bringing together working professionals, retirees and learners from a wide range of backgrounds. Alongside developing your astronomical knowledge, you can strengthen your ability to interpret and communicate complex scientific ideas.
SAO is delivered by Swinburne University's Centre for Astrophysics and Supercomputing (CAS), one of Australia's leading centres for astronomy research and education. You will learn in an environment shaped by internationally recognised, research-active astronomers, including highly cited researchers whose work ranks among the top 1% worldwide and scientists recognised among the world's top 2% in their fields.
Why study with Swinburne Astronomy Online
Connect with research-active astronomers, explore the latest discoveries, and join a community united by a fascination with the Universe.
Research-active astronomers
Study with astronomers actively contributing to our understanding of the cosmos. CAS is home to highly cited researchers and internationally recognised scientists whose expertise brings current astronomical research into your learning experience.
Research excellence
CAS's research in Astronomical and Space Sciences routinely received the highest rating of 5 out of 5 ('well above world standard') in Australia's Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) assessments.
Top rankings in Australia for teaching
Swinburne ranked first in Australia for postgraduate science and mathematics students' overall educational experience and second for teaching quality in the Good Universities Guide 2024.
What you can study
Whether you're aiming to advance your career, broaden your knowledge, or finally pursue a lifelong passion, SAO opens the door to cosmic exploration. You may choose to immerse yourself in one of our introductory units or obtain a Master of Science degree (12 units).
Assessment involves online newsgroup discussions, essays, and online tests. The discussions are asynchronous, so you can join anytime at your convenience.
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Graduate Certificate of Science (Astronomy)
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Graduate Diploma of Science (Astronomy)
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Master of Science (Astronomy)
Single units
We also offer individual units that run for 12 weeks plus an orientation week prior. Note: some units have prerequisites.
Our 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
- Professor Alister Graham – former Future Fellowship recipient and current Course Director of SAO
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Swinburne’s Professor Matthew Bailes honoured with 2024 Prime Minister’s Prize for Science
- Astronomy
- Education
- Science
- University
Swinburne’s Professor Matthew Bailes has been awarded the 2024 Prime Minister’s Prize for Science for his pioneering work in astrophysics, particularly his discovery of fast radio bursts (FRBs).
Wednesday 09 October 2024 -
A cosmic romance written in the stars
- Astronomy
- Science
Astronomers have discovered the intact heart of an infalling galaxy – a significant discovery of a star cluster that is falling into a spiral galaxy.
Thursday 13 January 2022
Astronomy news at Swinburne
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Swinburne recognises space innovator with Honorary Doctorate
- University
Swinburne University of Technology has recognised Anousheh Ansari, a trailblazer in space engineering and exploration, with an Honorary Doctorate in Science.
Friday 17 April 2026 -
Swinburne JWST collaboration to receive prestigious 2027 Berkeley Prize from American Astronomical Society
- Astronomy
- Science
- University
Swinburne leads the international team who have been awarded the American Astronomical Society’s 2027 Lancelot M. Berkeley Prize for the UNCOVER project
Friday 18 September 2026 -
Swinburne astrophysicist makes Forbes 30 under 30 Asia list
- Astronomy
- Science
- University
Swinburne astrophysicist and science communicator Dr Kirsten Banks has made the Forbes 30 under 30 Asia list for social media, marketing and advertising
Friday 29 May 2026
Need more information?
If you have any questions about Swinburne Astronomy Online, you may like to visit our website