Subjects at A level

Computer Science
Chemistry
Mathematics
Physics
English/Communication Skills

Learning Resources

Research Writing

Academic Writing

Choosing & Applying for University

CV Writing

Navigating Career Path Options

Business School

Interviews

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Description:

Introduction to degree course was developed in response to high dropout and failure rates of university students. The program fully supports successful progression of students from high school to undergraduate study and beyond. This course introduces students to a degree, giving students a frame work and direction in their area of study. We are well aware that if students fail to understand the foundation of the subject they are likely to lose interest in the subject that is why this course was designed to make it easier for students. The course is equipped with most of the learning materials required by students to understand their degree program.

This course was developed in consultation with universities at global. The course is designed to give students a deeper knowledge and understanding of the degree. The course is designed to enhance the creativity and critical thinking skills that are needed by students to develop their own ideas at University standard. Taking students step by step, to simplify and to explain the degree.

The course equips students with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision before starting and during your studies enabling students to plan ahead, minimizing student failure rates. The process makes knowledge transfer easier between students, universities, professionals, employers and research institutes The aim of this course is not just to make learning easier, but also to help put qualification in to use. We understand that most students at Universities fail not because they are “dumb” but, because they don’t get to understand what they are required to do.

Key Modules:

1: Introduction to Astronomy

This module provides an overview of the field of astronomy, including the history of astronomy, celestial objects, observational techniques, and the basic principles of astrophysics. Students learn about the structure and evolution of the universe, the properties of stars, galaxies, and other celestial bodies, and the tools and methods used in astronomical research.

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2: Observational Astronomy

This module focuses on the practical aspects of observational astronomy. Students learn about telescopes, detectors, and data analysis techniques used in astronomical observations. They gain hands-on experience in observing celestial objects, analyzing astronomical data, and interpreting observations.

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3: Astrophysics

This module delves into the physical principles and theories that govern the behavior of celestial objects. Students learn about stellar astrophysics, including stellar structure, formation, and evolution. They study topics such as stellar atmospheres, nuclear processes in stars, stellar populations, and the life cycle of stars. The module may also cover other areas of astrophysics, such as galactic dynamics, cosmology, and high-energy astrophysics.

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4: Planetary Science

This module focuses on the study of planets, moons, asteroids, and other objects in our solar system. Students learn about the formation and evolution of planets, planetary atmospheres, geology, and the search for extraterrestrial life. They study topics such as planetary exploration, impact cratering, planetary atmospheres, and the dynamics of the solar system.

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5: Cosmology

This module explores the large-scale structure and evolution of the universe. Students learn about the Big Bang theory, the cosmic microwave background radiation, dark matter, and dark energy. They study topics such as galaxy formation and evolution, the large-scale structure of the universe, and the cosmic web.

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6: Astrobiology

This module examines the possibility of life beyond Earth. Students learn about the conditions necessary for life, the search for habitable environments in the solar system and beyond, and the detection of biomarkers. They study topics such as the origin of life, extremophiles, the potential for life on Mars, and the study of exoplanets.

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7: Computational Astrophysics

This module focuses on the use of computer simulations and modeling techniques in astrophysics. Students learn about numerical methods, programming languages, and data analysis tools used in computational astrophysics. They gain hands-on experience in simulating astrophysical phenomena, such as galaxy formation, stellar evolution, and the dynamics of celestial objects.

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8: Astronomical Techniques and Instrumentation

This module covers the design, operation, and calibration of astronomical instruments and observing techniques. Students learn about spectroscopy, photometry, imaging, and data reduction techniques used in astronomical observations. They study topics such as adaptive optics, multi-wavelength observations, and space-based telescopes.

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9: Astrostatistics

This module introduces statistical methods and techniques used in analyzing astronomical data. Students learn about probability theory, hypothesis testing, regression analysis, and Bayesian statistics as applied to astrophysics. They gain skills in handling large datasets, modeling astrophysical phenomena, and drawing meaningful conclusions from observational data.

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10: Extragalactic Astronomy

This module focuses on the study of galaxies beyond our own Milky Way. Students learn about the properties, classification, and evolution of galaxies. They study topics such as galaxy formation and mergers, active galactic nuclei, galaxy clusters, and the large-scale structure of the universe. The module may also cover observational techniques used in extragalactic astronomy, such as spectroscopy and imaging.

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11: Stellar Astrophysics

This module delves deeper into the study of stars, focusing on their physical properties, internal structure, and energy generation mechanisms. Students learn about stellar atmospheres, stellar spectra, and stellar evolution. They explore topics such as stellar nucleosynthesis, stellar interiors, variable stars, and the formation of compact objects like white dwarfs, neutron stars, and black holes.

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12: High-Energy Astrophysics

This module examines the study of astronomical phenomena that involve high-energy processes, such as supernovae, gamma-ray bursts, and active galactic nuclei. Students learn about the detection and analysis of high-energy radiation, including X-rays and gamma rays. They explore topics such as accretion processes, relativistic jets, cosmic rays, and the role of high-energy astrophysics in understanding the universe's most extreme phenomena.

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13: Astroinformatics

This module focuses on the analysis and interpretation of large astronomical datasets using computational and data science techniques. Students learn about data mining, machine learning, and statistical analysis applied to astronomical data. They gain skills in handling big data, developing algorithms for automated analysis, and extracting meaningful information from complex datasets.

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14: Planetary Astronomy

This module delves into the study of planets and their atmospheres, focusing on their physical properties, geology, and climate. Students learn about planetary formation, planetary surfaces, planetary atmospheres, and the search for habitable environments in our solar system and beyond. They study topics such as planetary geophysics, remote sensing techniques, and the exploration of other planets and moons.

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15: Radio Astronomy

This module explores the use of radio waves to study celestial objects and phenomena. Students learn about radio telescopes, interferometry, and radio frequency analysis techniques. They study topics such as radio emission from galaxies, pulsars, cosmic microwave background radiation, and the study of molecules in space.

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16: Gravitational Astrophysics

This module focuses on the study of gravitational phenomena and their effects on celestial objects. Students learn about general relativity, gravitational waves, and the astrophysical sources that produce them. They explore topics such as black holes, neutron star mergers, and the detection and analysis of gravitational waves using instruments like the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO).

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17: Astrochemistry

This module examines the chemical processes and composition of astronomical objects, including the interstellar medium, planetary atmospheres, and comets. Students learn about molecular spectroscopy, astrochemical reactions, and the formation of complex molecules in space. They study topics such as the origin of life's building blocks, the study of organic molecules in space, and the role of chemistry in understanding the universe's chemical evolution.

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18: Galactic Dynamics

This module focuses on the study of the dynamics and kinematics of stars, gas, and dark matter in galaxies. Students learn about galactic structure, galactic rotation curves, and the distribution of matter in galaxies. They study topics such as galactic dynamics models, galactic collisions, and the role of dark matter in shaping the evolution of galaxies.

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19: Planetary Exploration

This module explores the missions and techniques used in exploring planets and other celestial bodies. Students learn about space probes, landers, and rovers, and the scientific instruments used in planetary exploration. They study topics such as mission planning, data analysis, and the challenges and discoveries made by spacecraft visiting other planets and moons.

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20: Science Communication and Outreach

This module focuses on effectively communicating scientific concepts to the public. Students learn about science communication techniques, public engagement, and the role of astronomy in inspiring and educating the public. They study topics such as science writing, science journalism, and the use of multimedia platforms for science communication.

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