BSc (Honours) in Natural Sciences (Astronomy and Planetary Science)
Open University
Key Information
Campus location
Online United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
Distance Learning
Duration
3 - 6 years
Pace
Full time, Part time
Tuition fees
GBP 6,924 / per year *
Application deadline
Request info
Earliest start date
Request info
* cost per year full-time; £3,462 - cost per year part-time
Introduction
In this specialist route available in our BSc (Honours) Natural Sciences (Q64), you'll develop the knowledge and skills you need to study outer space. You'll be able to objectively and quantitatively describe, analyse, test and explain phenomena in the Universe, using appropriate quantitative tools and observational methods.
Key features of the course
- Includes planning and conducting astronomical observations by controlling our robotic optical telescopes at the Observatorio del Teide (Tenerife)
- Covers topics like our solar system, planets orbiting other stars, the life cycle of stars, extreme conditions near black holes, and the evolutionary history of the Universe
- Develops your understanding of physics concepts and processes that underpin a wide range of phenomena in the Universe
- Develops mathematical, analytical, investigative, practical, communication and team working skills
Accessibility
We make all our qualifications as accessible as possible and have a comprehensive range of services to support all our students. The BSc (Honours) Natural Sciences uses a variety of study materials and has the following elements:
- studying a mixture of printed and online material – online learning resources may include websites, audio/video media clips, and interactive activities such as online quizzes
- using mathematical and scientific expressions, notations and associated techniques
- undertaking practical work or using an online laboratory
- working with specialist reading material such as scientific journals
- using specialist software
- working in a group with other students
- using and/or producing diagrams and/or screenshots
- finding external/third party material online.
Program Outcome
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
The level and depth of your learning gradually increase as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; e-learning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Curriculum
Course details
This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.
- You’ll start Stage 1 with a 60-credit introductory science module, and study one 30-credit mathematics module combined with a further 30-credit module in a complementary subject.
- In Stage 2, you’ll study four 30-credit modules.
- In Stage 3, you’ll study two 30-credit modules, choose a further 30-credit module in a complementary subject and complete your degree with a 30-credit project module.
Prepare for OU study with an Access module
We offer two starting points depending on how confident you are or how long it’s been since you last studied. Choose to dive straight in at Stage 1, or if you’d prefer some extra preparation, you can get started with an optional Access module.