SAO Mathematical Requirements

Astronomy is a science that uses mathematics to describe the Universe, but students do not need to have a specialist mathematics background to study astronomy. Our introductory units focus primarily on developing conceptual understanding, although some basic mathematics is used throughout the course. More advanced SAO units introduce additional mathematical concepts and assume some previous mathematical experience.

Mathematics Background

The introductory-level units, such as AST80005 Exploring the Solar System, AST80004 Exploring Stars & the Milky Way, and AST80006 Galaxies and their Place in the Universe use mathematics mainly to support understanding of astronomical concepts. Students may encounter basic calculations, graphs, equations, and mathematical reasoning through online discussions, course activities, and assessment tasks.

The advanced-level units, such as AST80003 Cosmology and the Large-scale Structure of the Universe, AST80016 Stellar Astrophysics, and AST80011 Major Project: Computational Astrophysics, make greater use of mathematics. A background equivalent to senior secondary mathematics (such as Year 12 mathematics in Australia) is recommended for these units.

The following topics provide a useful guide to the mathematical background expected:

  • Basic Algebra:
    Manipulation of equations, functions, solving simple equations, Cartesian coordinates, linear relationships, graphs, exponential functions, and logarithms.
  • Geometry and Trigonometry:
    Straight lines, circles, ellipses, parabolas, spheres, and the use of basic trigonometric functions such as sine, cosine, and tangent.
  • Calculus:
    A conceptual understanding of differentiation and integration, including ideas such as rates of change, slopes of curves, and areas under curves. Students are not expected to perform advanced differentiation or integration unless these techniques are introduced within the unit material.

If additional mathematical concepts are required for a particular topic, these will be introduced within the course material. SAO assumes that students are willing to learn and apply mathematics as it arises in an astronomical context.

All SAO units contain some mathematical equations because mathematics provides the framework astronomers use to describe and understand astronomical phenomena. However, the emphasis is on understanding the physical meaning behind the mathematics rather than performing lengthy mathematical derivations.

Bridging Mathematics

Students wishing to refresh their mathematical skills before or during their SAO studies can use the topics above as a guide and study from any suitable introductory mathematics resource.

A useful self-paced resource is:

MathCasts: MathCasts are online mathematics learning resources developed through a collaboration between mathematics support centres at Swinburne University, the University of Limerick, and Loughborough University. They provide revision material covering many topics relevant to science, engineering, computing, and technology students.

Do I need university-level mathematics?

No. SAO welcomes students from a wide range of backgrounds. A willingness to learn and practise mathematics is more important than having completed advanced mathematics previously.

For further mathematics revision resources, visit Swinburne Commons, or search for "MathsCasts" online.