Graduate Diploma of Science (Astronomy)
The Graduate Diploma of Science (Astronomy) is an online course and is part of a nested suite of programs which includes the Master of Science (Astronomy) and the Graduate Certificate of Science (Astronomy), with different entry and exit points depending upon previous academic studies.
Duration
1 year full-time or 2 years part-time
Intakes
Online (Study Period 1, Study Period 3) - View application and start dates
Study mode
- Online
2020 Start Dates
Study Period 3 -
31 August 2020
2021 Start Dates
Study Period 1 -
01 March 2021
Study Period 3 -
30 August 2021
Course information in detail
- Course detail, course structure and units of study.
Course description
The Graduate Diploma of Science (Astronomy) is an online course and is part of a nested suite of programs which includes the Master of Science (Astronomy) and the Graduate Certificate of Science (Astronomy) with different entry and exit points depending upon previous academic studies.
The Graduate Diploma 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 broad 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.
Note: This course is available to local students and off-shore international students who are studying in a country other than Australia; this course is not available to on-shore international students on a student visa.
Course structure
To qualify for the award of Graduate Diploma of Science (Astronomy), students must complete eight units of study (100 credit points) as follows:
- 6 Astronomy core units (75 credit points)
- 2 Elective units (25 credit points)
Maximum Academic Credit
The maximum level of credit that can be granted for the Graduate Diploma in Science (Astronomy) is 50 credit points (normally four units)
The maximum level of credit that can be granted for the Graduate Diploma in Science (Astronomy) is 50 credit points (normally four units)
Units of study
Core units
Complete six units (75 credit points)
AST80005 Exploring the Solar System
AST80004 Exploring Stars and the Milky Way
AST80005 Exploring the Solar System
AST80004 Exploring Stars and the Milky Way
Elective units
Select two units from the following (25 credit points)
AST80008 History of Astronomy - Final offering SP3 2019
Not all of the above units of study will be offered every semester and some are offered in alternate years. For further information, refer to Swinburne Astronomy Online. Electives will usually be offered subject to satisfactory enrolment numbers.
Careers and graduate outcomes
- Course aims and objectives.
Aims and objectives
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.
Pathways and scholarships
- Credit transfer, recognition of prior learning and scholarships.
Course fees and requirements
- Fees, entry requirements and non-year 12 entry.
Course fees
Fees are estimates for students commencing in 2020 only: Tuition fees as published are subject to change given individual circumstances at enrolment. These fees apply for units studied in 2020 only and may change for units studied in future years. If part-time study is permitted, annual fees will be proportionally lower based on the number of units taken per semester.
How do I pay my fees?
FEE-HELP is a loan given to eligible full-fee paying higher education students to help pay part or all of their tuition fees. The Commonwealth Government pays the amount of the loan directly to Swinburne.
The total tuition fee is dependent upon the combination of units of study selected by the student. Fees are reviewed each year. Find out more about fees.
Entry requirements
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)
All applicants
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).
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).