Introduction
This module is only available to students enrolled on the Certificate of Higher Education (Cert HE) in Astronomy. It is designed to enable students to demonstrate that they have the ability to integrate subject knowledge and skills across individual modules composing the Certificate of Higher Education in Astronomy.
The module draws together scientific themes and
concepts found in the core modules of the Cert HE, namely
AA1051 Introduction to Astronomy and
AA1053 Introduction to Cosmology, providing students
with the opportunity to conduct in-depth study through research of
appropriate topics.
The students are expected to make significant use of the IT skills
developed in AA1055.
Duration
This course runs from October to May following the normal academic year for campus-based students.
The Cert HE in Astronomy as a whole consists of six standard university modules. It will normally take between 4 and 6 years to complete, with a minimum duration of 2 years and a maximum duration of normally no more than 8 years.
Most students are recommended to undertake no more than one or two modules per year depending on their commitments.
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.
AA1057 Investigations is a standard university module (200 hours of study per module) and students should expect to devote 4 - 5 hours per week averaged the duration of the course.
Admissions Criteria
Students must be enrolled on the Cert HE in Astronomy in order to study this module. Entry to the Cert HE in Astronomy is via the successful completion of at least two University Certificates, one of which must be the University Certificate in Astronomy (or equivalent). See the factsheet for the Cert HE in Astronomy for full details of admissions criteria.
Course Content
AA1057 Investigations in Astronomy is a single standard module of 20 national credits at level 1.
The subject matter for this module is the same as the subject material in AA1051 Introduction to Astronomy and AA1053 Introduction to Cosmology.
Students will select topics for a more detailed investigation. Possible topics might be:
- The Astronomical Distance Ladder.
- Exploration of the Cosmic Microwave Background, past, present and future.
- The Development of Large Ground-Based Telescopes.
- Active Galaxies
- Galactic Structure
- Space Technology
This module makes further use of the Course Notes for each of the core modules AA1051 and AA1053. Supplementary material on specific topics will be provided on the website.
The first topic (e.g. The Astronomical Distance Ladder) will be specified in the Workbook together with details of the appropriate research methods and structure for the written presentation of the subject matter. Students will be asked to submit an extensive summary of the main issues and problems. Detailed feedback will be provided on this initial report before the students submit the second item of coursework.
The students will have a choice for their second and third topics and will be expected to show increasing independence in producing the report, and in their presentation skills. For the third item of coursework, students will be required to create an on-line presentation (e.g. using PowerPoint), in addition to the written report.
Assessment
Assessment will be by coursework only and there is no examination. There are three items of coursework all of which must be prepared electronically.
Students will be expected to write a report on each of three different topics:
- initial report of 1000 words - to provide feedback on the student’s progress
- report of 1600 words
- report of 2500 and an on-line presentation designed to last no more than 10 minutes.
It is not necessary to pass each item of coursework individually provided that all items have been attempted and the overall module mark is 40% or more.
Further Courses
For details of the other modules that can contribute towards the Cert HE in Astronomy see the factsheets for it and the individual modules.
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 Admissions Tutor 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 October 2007 ib