Astronomy

Astronomy is the scientific study of the universe, and aims to understand the nature of the Sun and stars, planetary systems, galaxies, and the universe as a whole. Astronomy provides a scientific basis for understanding humanity’s origins, its place in the universe, and its future.

Studying Astronomy at USQ

USQ is a leading provider of external education in Australia, with over two-thirds of students studying via distance or online across a range of disciplines including science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

USQ’s astronomy study offerings range from one semester undergraduate courses to postgraduate research programs, with student learning and research training supported by USQ’s remote-access facilities, including Mt Kent Observatory, a High-Performance Computing (HPC) facility and online library and lending services. Astronomy at USQ is a significant part of a physical sciences research cluster that has consistently rated as world class in Excellence in Research in Australia (ERA) assessments.

Astronomy distance education programs

Program	Description	Admission requirements	Program fees
Bachelor of Science (Physical Sciences) (BSCI)	24 units of undergraduate courses with 4 units of astronomy studies available	High school senior with recommended prior maths and science	Commonwealth supported or full fee-paying
Graduate Certificate in Science (GCSC)	4 units of undergraduate astronomy courses	Any recognised 3 year degree	Commonwealth supported or full fee-paying
Master of Science (Research) (MSCR)	Research masters with 12 units of study	Recognised 3 year degree in a relevant discipline with a high GPA	Research Training Scheme support, FEE-HELP or full fees
Master of Science (Astronomy) (MSCN)	12 units coursework plus 4 units of research	Any recognised 3 year university degree	Commonwealth supported or full fee-paying
Doctor of Philosophy (DPHD)	24 units of research - no coursework	Recognised 1st/2A honours or masters degree with a research component in a relevant discipline and professional standing	Research Training Scheme support, FEE-HELP or full fees

In addition to the above, honours and doctoral studies are available on-campus at USQ Springfield and Toowoomba. Astronomy courses may also be studied as electives in many USQ programs, or as stand-alone courses via USQ continuing professional education and development.

Launch of Professor Fred Watson's Book 'Star-Craving Mad: Tales from a Travelling Astronomer'

Download a video of Professor Fred Watson's Book Launch event which was held at the TV Studio, USQ Toowoomba on 27 February 2013.

Please note - This video file will stream using the Windows Media Player (v.9 and above), and will play over a broadband (or better) connection. The file is not downloadable. You are able to pause, rewind and fast-forward using the player's control bar. It is generally not compatible with mobile devices. Some users have reported that their institutional ICT policies do not allow streaming-video content. Please check with your local systems administrator if you are unable to connect to this streamed-video presentation.