Bachelor of Science (Astronomy major)
Overview
The Bachelor of Science – Astronomy major is offered from the Westville Campus. A major in Astronomy provides a strong foundation in physics, mathematics, and data analysis, all while exploring the universe.
SAQA
NQF LEVEL
DURATION
CAO CODE
KN-W-BG4
CLOSING DATE
30 September
Entry Requirements
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) – Degree (Pass).
- APS score of no fewer than 28 points.
- Mathematics at Level 4 and Physical Science, Life Science or Agricultural Science or Economics at Level 4.
Modules
Semester 1
- Introduction to Calculus – MATH130 (16 Credits)
- Mechanics, Optics and Thermal Physics PHYS110 (16 Credits)
Select 32 credits from the list of recommended electives below:
- Introduction to Statistics – STAT130 (16 Credits)
- Principles of Microeconomics – ECON101 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
Semester 2
- Calculus and Linear Algebra – MATH140 (16 Credits)
- Electromagnetism, Waves and Modern Physics – PHYS120 (16 Credits)
Select 32 credits from the list of recommended electives below:
- Statistical Methods – STAT140 (16 Credits)
- Principles of Macroeconomics – ECON102 (16 Credits)
- Foundations of Computer Science – COMP107 (16 Credits)
- Development and Applications Fundamentals – ISTN103 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits.
Semester 1
- Stars and Planets – ASTR203 (16 Credits)
- Advanced Calculus and Linear Algebra – MATH 212 (16 Credits)
- Level 2 module from the second major (16 Credits)
- Level 1 or Level 2 elective (16 Credits)
Recommended electives are given below:
- Discrete Mathematics with Applications – MATH236 (16 Credits)
- Mechanics – MATH235 (16 Credits)
- Mechanics and Modern Physics – PHYS211 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
Semester 2
- Galaxies and Cosmology – ASTR204 (16 Credits)
- Further Calculus and Introductory Analysis – MATH251 (16 Credits)
- Level 2 module from the second major (16 Credits)
- Level 1 or Level 2 elective (16 Credits)
Recommended electives are given below:
- Intro to Numerical Mathematics – MATH243 (16 Credits)
- Mathematical modelling – MATH246 (16 Credits)
- Electromagnetism, Waves & Vibrations – PHYS212 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits.
Semester 1
- Astronomy Beyond the Visible – ASTR301 (16 Credits)
- Observational Project – ASTR304 (16 Credits)
- Level 3 electives (32 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
Semester 2
- Fluids in Astrophysics – ASTR303 (16 Credits)
16 credits must be chosen from:
- Numerical Analysis – MATH327 (16 Credits)
- Tensor Analysis – MATH344 (16 Credits)
- Level 3 electives (32 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits.
- Total Credits for Qualification: 384
What do they actually do?
Astronomers apply the principles of Physics and Mathematics to deepen our understanding of the universe. They collect and analyse data on planets, moons, stars, and other celestial objects using telescopes and computer programs. Often specialising in specific types of celestial bodies or phenomena, such as black holes, astronomers develop and test scientific theories, interpret complex data, and prepare research proposals. They also write scientific papers and present their findings to others within the scientific community.
Areas of Employment
• HartRAO
• SAAO,
• SA SKA
• MeerKAT
• Universities or Colleges
• Planetariums
Apply today and take the next step toward your future.