Master of Science (Astrophysics)

Overview

• The Master of Science (Astrophysics) enables professional development in astrophysics and astronomical and space sciences through coursework and research.
• Gain discipline knowledge and research project experience and widely useful scientific, numerical and critical analysis skills.
• This degree combines coursework and research giving you the opportunity to further develop your skills with four units of research. Designed for those already in an educational or science communication career, you will undertake a professional development component in science, as well as gain a specialist foundation relevant for further research.
• You will have the opportunity to decide between two different pathways of study in your masters degree:
  • Research Project track - the Research Project track equips you with research skills and allows you to develop a research thesis through a project in your chosen disciplinary application area.
  • Research Training track - the Research Training track allows you to develop your research capability and gain specialised cognitive and technical skills to prepare for a professional career in science.
• You will have access to UniSQ's remote-access facilities, including the Mt Kent Observatory, a facility for astronomical research and education operated by UniSQ, in partnership with the University of Louisville in Kentucky, USA, and Automated Patrol Telescopes Australia Pty Ltd, in addition to a High-Performance Computing cluster.
• Astronomy at UniSQ 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.
• Students enrolled in the Master of Science (Astrophysics) can apply to exit their studies early with a Graduate Certificate of Science after completion of four units of study.

Thinking of studying in 2024? UniSQ will be delivering flexible new ways of teaching, with different calendar offerings, making the balance of study and life easier. Read more in our new academic calendar FAQs.

Career outcomes

• As the global space industry supports a range of jobs beyond specialised space scientists and engineers, this degree accommodates those from a range of backgrounds seeking knowledge and skills relevant to international and emerging Australian space industry opportunities.
• This degree provides professional development for a scientist working for industry or government, technician working in a laboratory or in the field, practicing teacher or provider of scientific or technical services.

Degree structure

To complete this degree students must complete 16 units. Most courses (similar to 'subjects') are valued at 1 unit. To study full-time you would usually complete 4 units per semester.

Courses to be studied Units 12 x specialisation courses 12 2-4 x research courses 4 Total 16

Note: These electives are for students to take complementary studies in physics, mathematics, statistics or computing. Choice of the elective should be done in consultation with, and be approved by the School.

Refer to the UniSQ Handbook for courses to be studied and recommended enrolment patterns.

Other specialisations

• Agricultural Science
• Applied Climate Science
• Environment & Sustainability
• Mathematics & Statistics
• Sport & Exercise

How to apply

Complete your online application directly to UniSQ.

Note: The Master of Science Astronomy major is only available via external study. It is not offered on-campus.

Apply direct to UniSQ

The closing dates for applying directly to UniSQ are:

• Semester 1, 2023 - applications close on 20 February and the Semester 1 study period commences on Monday 20 February, 2023.
• Semester 2, 2023 - applications close on 10 July and the Semester 2 study period commences on Monday 10 July, 2023.

The closing dates for applying directly to UniSQ are:

• Trimester 1, 2024 - applications close 22 January 2024 and the Trimester 1 study period starts on 22 January 2024.
• Trimester 2, 2024 - applications close 13 May 2024 and the Trimester 2 study period starts on 13 May 2024.

More information on applying key dates is available.

Further information

Discover further information on applying to study at UniSQ that is relevant to you.