Astronomy Courses & Education for first-timers.University Certificates
Single-module certificates for broader study and skills.Advanced Study
Routes to a full BSc(Hons) Degree in Astronomy.

Advanced Certificate in Astrophysics of Galaxies Course - VSASGL502
Studying two modules at Level 2, you will normally have completed AA1051 (Introduction to Astronomy) or equivalent. Study of A-level Maths is advantageous as the course takes a quantitative approach, but without the use of highly complex maths. You must study the two modules in the order AA2051 The Milky Way followed by AA2052 Galaxies Beyond the Milky Way, and they are at second year degree standard.
Modules on this Astrophysics of Galaxies Course:
The Milky Way - AA2051
You will build upon what you learnt about stars and our Galaxy in AA1051 Introduction to Astronomy to develop a broad understanding of The Milky Way. You will learn about observations of the overall structure of the Galaxy in which we live, concluding with the black hole at its centre. You will also gain an overview of many of the processes that are responsible for shaping the content of the Galaxy and guiding its evolution over time.
Tutor: Gordon Bromage & Barbara Hassall
Level: 2 Credits: 20
Galaxies Beyond the Milky Way - AA2052
Using your knowledge of our own Galaxy, you will be introduced to Galaxies beyond the Milky Way. You will use multi-waveband observations coupled to basic physical principles to understand the phenomena of galaxies in the Universe.
You will cover the following topics: the local universe, the local group of galaxies, clustering of galaxies, evolution and challenges for the future.
Tutor: Anne Sansom & Victor Debattista
Level: 2 Credits: 20