Introduction
This course provides the non-specialist with an introduction to the application of information technology in astronomy. The course is designed for people who have a strong interest in astronomy and related sciences and who have already studied the University Certificate in Astronomy or Cosmology.
The University Certificate in IT for Astronomy includes an introduction to the personal computer, windows operating systems and office applications. Self-study exercises are heavily biased towards applications appropriate for astronomy and cosmology. Internet resources are used to research astronomy topics and for gathering specific data sources appropriate for the study of astronomy. The course also discusses astronomical applications software available on the internet that illustrates a variety of concepts in astronomy.
Applicants to this course must have access to the internet and a PC with a full suite of office applications.
This course runs from October to May following the normal academic year for campus-based students.
Study Mode
Part-time by distance learning only
Learning materials are supplied on-line via the Course Website, which also provides a noticeboard and web-based discussion groups where students can interact with one another and with staff. Tutorial support is available by email, web-based discussion or telephone. The university library's Distance Learning Service is available to students enrolled on this course.
Students are recommended to have access to a PC with internet connections to obtain maximum benefit from the course. Students are responsible for printing out their own paper copies of the learning materials if required.
This course consists of a standard University module (200 hours of study per module) and students should expect to devote 4 - 5 hours per week averaged over the duration of the course.
You must have access to the internet and windows-based software for a substantial part of this course.
Admissions Criteria
The course is designed to allow non-specialists to acquire basic skills and knowledge in a structured way. Candidates who can demonstrate that they have a strong interest in the subject and who will benefit in terms of their personal development and enjoyment will be given preference.
Applicants for the University Certificate in IT for Astronomy must normally have passed AA1051 Introduction to Astronomy or AA1053 Introduction to Cosmology or their equivalents. Applicants with other equivalent qualifications should discuss the details of their education with the Course Leader.
Course Content
The University Certificate in IT for Astronomy consists of a single standard module of 20 national credits at Level 1: AA1055 IT for Astronomy . This course is designed as an introduction to the use of information technology appropriate for the study of astronomy and cosmology. The course covers an introduction to the personal computer, its component parts and the use of peripheral devices. Electronic communications are introduced and used in a variety of ways including; e-mail, discussion groups, internet browsing, ftp and web site publishing. The final part of the course covers applications software and computer based resources available commercially or via the internet to illustrate astronomical concepts and provide the student with an extended pool of information on a range of astronomical topics.
Assessment
The assessment for the University Certificate in IT for Astronomy consists of 3 items of coursework which will expand themes developed in the University Certificates of Astronomy or Cosmology. Typically these will require use of IT packages to process and present astronomical data. Assessments are normally submitted electronically, according to a Course Schedule. It is not necessary to pass each item of coursework individually provided that all three have been attempted and the overall module mark is 40% or more. There is no examination.
Further Study
The Department offers Level 1 University Certificate courses in related topics which are structured in a similar way. These courses can be studied separately or combined to obtain a Certificate of Higher Education in Astronomy. Please see the relevant factsheets for these courses.
Students who successfully complete the University Certificate in Astronomy can progress to the University Advanced Certificates (at Level 2). See separate factsheet for details of the Diploma of Higher Education in Astronomy and BSc (Hons) in Astronomy.
In addition, there is a progression route from the University Certificate in Astronomy to other courses leading to degree programmes in astronomy and astrophysics on-campus at the University of Central Lancashire. For details of entrance requirements to degree programmes, please contact the Programme Administrator at the address below.
International Students
International Students are welcome to apply but should note that the course is only available in the English language.
Fees
The tuition fee for a standard module of 20 national credits is set each year. For guidance, in the year 2008/2009 the fees per standard module for private individuals are:-
| Living in the UK | £210 |
| EU excluding the UK | £250 |
| Outside the EU or UK | £350 |
| (approximately US$600 depending on the exchange rate) |
Application Procedure and Further Information
For further information and on-line application form visit the www.StudyAstronomy.com website.
Alternatively, contact the Programme Administrator at the following address:
The Programme Administrator
Study Astronomy
School of Computing, Engineering and Physical Sciences
University of Central Lancashire
Preston PR1 2HE
UKTel: +44 (0) 1772 893541 (direct line)
Fax: +44 (0) 1772 892996
Email: ucastro@uclan.ac.ukWebsite: www.StudyAstronomy.com
(This information is correct at the time of going to press but may be subject to change.)
Last updated: 10 Oct 2007 bjmh