Astronomy and Astrophysics PGCert

Program Overview

With a focus on exoplanets, the galaxy, or cosmology, the program provides a solid foundation for professionals seeking a career change or those aiming to deepen their knowledge in the field. Taught by distinguished experts, the program combines lectures, exercises, and independent study, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in various astronomy and astrophysics-related careers.

Program Outline

Astronomy and Astrophysics PGCert

Degree Overview:

The Astronomy and Astrophysics PGCert program offered by Queen Mary University of London offers a flexible course of study ideal for professionals or graduates seeking a career change and those aiming to deepen their knowledge or passion for astronomy and astrophysics. With a duration of nine months, the program provides participants with an exceptional overview of the subject while offering specializations in either exoplanets and astrophysical disks, the galaxy, or cosmology.

Outline:

Modules:

Students enrolled in this program will take two taught modules per semester (four in total), chosen from a list of elective modules.

• Extrasolar Planets and Astrophysical Discs: This module dives into the latest research concerning exoplanets and circumstellar discs around young stars.
• Radiative Transfer and Astrochemistry: This module provides students with an essential toolkit for astronomical observations and theoretical interpretations, encompassing: emission and propagation of light (radiative transfer theory), how we use this transfer theory when interpreting spectra from distant objects to infer their properties and composition, astrochemistry including astrophysical phenomena like cataclysmic variables, X-ray binary systems, and active galactic nuclei, how physical conditions impact composition and influence the temperature and motion of matter.

Project or Dissertation:

Students may choose an independent, supervised research project or a dissertation in their chosen area of interest for the last 8 weeks of the course.

Assessment:

Assessments within the program will comprise a variety of methods depending on the chosen modules, including coursework, written examinations, and presentation of their chosen dissertation or research project.

Teaching:

The program provides a dynamic learning environment supported by distinguished international experts in their respective fields, including Dr. Karim Malik in theoretical cosmology, Dr. David Burgess in astrophysical objects and astrophysics, Dr. Christopher Chen in solar physics and space plasma, Dr. Timothy Clifton in theoretical cosmology and relativity, Dr. Timothy Clifton in theoretical cosmology and relativity, and Dr. Katie Mack in theoretical astrophysics and cosmology. The teaching approach uses a blended learning model of lectures, exercises, tutorials, and independent study for each individual module.

Careers:

Graduates of the program often pursue PhD studies, positions at prestigious academic institutions, or roles in various industries including business, data analysis, engineering, and programming. Recent graduates have pursued PhD degrees in institutions like the University of Cambridge, and secured employment at companies like Amazon, the DP World London Gateway terminal, and Tech Alchemy. Additionally, the program offers exceptional learning environment features:

• Access to the Queen Mary Collaborations like ALMA, LIGO, JWST, Parker Solar Probe.
• Availability of the Astronomical Observatory for hands-on astronomical observations using the Queen Mary Observatory’s telescopes.
• Exposure to high-performance computing facilities like the Local Supercomputer and National DiRAC facilities for advanced simulations and data analysis.
• Opportunities within the department to engage with experimental facilities in the School, including clean rooms, workshops, and laboratories.

Overall:

This program equips participants with the fundamental knowledge and valuable skills necessary for success in a variety of astronomy and astrophysics-related careers.

Home: £4,250 Overseas: £9,650