SAO Units and Course Structure
Explore the Universe with SAO
Swinburne Astronomy Online (SAO) offers a flexible pathway into modern astronomy, from introductory concepts through to advanced studies in astrophysics and research-based projects. Units are designed and delivered by professional astronomers and researchers from the Centre for Astrophysics and Supercomputing.
Whether you are beginning your astronomical journey or looking to extend your existing knowledge, SAO units provide opportunities to explore planets, stars, galaxies, cosmology, astronomical observations, and the search for life beyond Earth.
SAO Courses
SAO units contribute towards the following postgraduate qualifications:
| Qualification | Credit Points | Units |
| Graduate Certificate of Science (Astronomy) | 50 credit points | 4 units |
| Graduate Diploma of Science (Astronomy) | 100 credit points | 8 units |
| Master of Science (Astronomy) | 150 credit points | 12 units |
Each SAO unit carries 12.5 credit points and is normally completed over a 12-week study period.
Students may also enrol in single/individual units (subject to availability and admission requirements).
Introductory Astronomy Units
No previous university-level astronomy is assumed for these units. They provide a broad introduction to astronomy using a primarily conceptual approach.
AST80004 Exploring Stars and the Milky Way
Discover how stars form, evolve and die, and explore the structure and history
of our home galaxy.
AST80005 Exploring the Solar System
Investigate the planets, moons, asteroids, comets and the Sun, and learn how
astronomers study our planetary neighbourhood.
AST80006 Galaxies and their Place in the Universe
Explore galaxies, dark matter, galaxy formation and evolution, and the large-scale
structure of the Universe.
AST80001 Astrobiology and the Origins of Life
Examine the connections between astronomy, chemistry, geology and biology in the
search to understand the origins of life on Earth and elsewhere.
AST80017 Studies in Space Exploration
Explore the history, technology, science goals and challenges of human and robotic
space exploration.
Advanced Astronomy Units
These units build on introductory astronomy and introduce more advanced astronomical concepts, including physics, mathematics, observations and research methods.
AST80002 Astrophotography and CCD Imaging
Learn how astronomical images are obtained, processed and interpreted using
modern imaging techniques.
AST80015 Planetary Science
Investigate planetary formation, atmospheres, surfaces and the diverse worlds
within our Solar System.
AST80018 Professional Tools for Astronomical Observation
Discover how astronomers observe the Universe across the electromagnetic spectrum,
from radio waves to gamma rays.
AST80016 Stellar Astrophysics
Explore the physical processes governing stars and stellar evolution.
AST80003 Cosmology and the Large-scale Structure of the Universe
Study the physics of the early Universe, dark matter, dark energy and the
formation of cosmic structure.
Research Projects
Students undertaking the Graduate Diploma or Master of Science may complete research-based project units, providing experience in astronomical investigation, data analysis and scientific communication.
AST80011 Major Project - Computational Astrophysics
Use numerical modelling and computational techniques to investigate astronomical
problems.
AST80013 Major Project - Observational Astronomy
Develop practical experience with astronomical observations, imaging and data
analysis.
Planning Your Studies
Some units have prerequisites and each are offered only once per year. available units and delivery schedule may vary. Current students should refer to the detailed SAO unit information and prospective students should consult the relevant Swinburne course information when planning their enrolment.