You will delve deeper into topics covered in the Certificate programme, as well as exploring more advanced subjects. A particular focus will be the variety of techniques used by astronomers, both historically and in current research, and you will learn how different observational and theoretical approaches can be combined to tackle particular questions.
As well as those with a general interest in astronomy, this course may also be of interest to secondary teachers of Physics,and to planetarium and science museum workers.
What will I be studying?
The course is taught through three termly units, each with its own topic. The evening sessions take place on Thursdays 7.15pm - 9.15pm. There are also some Saturday practical sessions throughout the course.
Unit 1: Astronomical techniques across the spectrum
This unit explores the past, present and possible future of observing techniques in astronomy, from radio through optical and infrared astronomy to X-rays and gamma rays, neutrinos and gravitational waves.
Unit 2: Stellar phenomena
We consider the later stages of both low- and high-mass stars, including exotic objects such as pulsars and gamma-ray bursts, stellar winds and explosive behaviours, and explore the evolution and phenomena associated with binary star systems.
Unit 3: The early Universe
In this unit we examine the present understanding of our Universe’s history, from the Big Bang through its early evolution to the emergence of large-scale structure and the formation of star and galaxies. In particular we consider how astronomers use observational evidence to test our understanding of the history of the Universe.
What can I go on to do?
Credit awarded by the Institute may also be transferred into the degree programmes of other higher education providers. However the volume of credit and the curriculum which can be transferred into degree programmes varies from institution to institution and is always at the discretion of the receiving institution.
