Introduction

This course presents an analysis of key astronomers in history and their discoveries in the period from ancient Greece until 1900. Within this framework, the course aims to promote understanding both of the nature of historical study, and the nature and dynamics of western scientific discovery in its cultural context. The module is aimed at those with a general interest in astronomy who would like to take on a broader perspective of the subject, and at those with an interest in history to encourage them to expand into the history of science. No previous knowledge of astronomy or the history of astronomy is assumed.

This course complements the University Certificate in Astronomy and is at the same academic level (first year undergraduate level). The module is also available to students enrolled on the Certificate of Higher Education (Cert HE) in Astronomy,  Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE) in Astronomy and BSc(Hons) in Astronomy.  

Duration

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.

Admissions Criteria

This course about the history of astronomy is designed for the non-specialist and hence is available to applicants with a minimum level of academic qualifications.

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. No prior knowledge of the subject is necessary but we normally expect GCSE English or equivalent high school qualification. Applicants with other equivalent qualifications or who have not been involved in academic study for a number of years should discuss the details of their education with the Course Leader.

Course Content

The University Certificate in the History of Astronomy consists of a single standard module of 20 national credits at Level 1:  AA1066 Great Astronomers in History. The module is divided into twelve sections and includes:

• The nature and history of science
• The Greek beginnings
• Contributions made to science by Copernicus, Tycho Brahe, Kepler and Galileo
• UK based scientists Jeremiah Horrocks, Isaac Newton and William Herschel
• Theoretical and observational astronomy
• The interconnection of Science, Extra-terrestrials and the Emperor’s New Canals.

The learning materials consist of these twelve sections of Course Notes and  a  History Workbook. For a background and overview, students are recommended to obtain either the 

Cambridge Concise History of Astronomy  by Michael Hoskin, 1999, CUP, (ISBN 0521576008 £24.99 paperback or ISBN 0521572916 hardback) or the 

Cambridge Illustrated History of Astronomy by Michael Hoskin, 1996, CUP, ISBN 0521411580 (£25.00) subject to availability. 

Arthur Koestler’s The Sleepwalkers (1989, Arkana, ISBN 0140192469, £14.99) gives a better feel for the earlier key figures. The History Workbook contains the assessed coursework, guidance in preparing essays and reviews and a comprehensive bibliography from which students may select additional reading for an essay. Some of the original works (in translation) e.g. works of Kepler and Galileo, are available in cheap editions from web book suppliers.

Assessment

The assessment for the University Certificate in the History of Astronomy consists of three items of coursework (typically two assignments of 1000-1500 words and one essay of 3000-3500 words).  Assessments are normally submitted according to a Course Schedule. It is not necessary to pass each item of coursework individually provided that the essay has been attempted and the overall module mark is 40% or more.  There is no examination.

Further Courses

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, students who fulfill the A-level requirements can study the full-time on-campus degree programmes in Physics or Astrophysics. Prior completion of University Certificate in Astronomy will count towards the degree, by means of accreditation of prior learning. Please see the UCLan Prospectus for Full-time Students for details of the entry requirements. 

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. Please visit the Module Fees page on our website for details of this year's fees: http://www.studyastronomy.com/fees.php

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
UK

Tel:  +44 (0) 1772 893541 (direct line)
Fax: +44 (0) 1772 892996
Email: ucastro@uclan.ac.uk

Website: www.StudyAstronomy.com 

(This information is correct at the time of going to press but may be subject to change.)

Last updated: 13 July 2010 sd