Bachelor of Science (Space Science and Astrophysics) (BSc(SpacScAstrophys))
Bachelor of Science (Space Science and Astrophysics) (BSc(SpacScAstrophys))
Program Code
BSC
Program Faculty
Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology
Academic Year
2025
These Program Rules should be read in conjunction with the University's policies (https://www.adelaide.edu.au/policies).
Overview
This program explores the fundamental processes of our universe from the upper atmosphere of the Earth to the most distant regions. It consists of core training in the disciplines of astronomy and space science, with a strong emphasis on physics. Students are given the flexibility to supplement this core with their choice of other science, geoscience, and mathematically based work and students will have direct exposure to professionals in the fields of space science and astrophysics, which enables them to form professional mentoring relationships. There are also opportunities to take part in project work with established scientists in the field.
The Bachelor of Science (Space Science and Astrophysics) is an AQF Level 7 program with a standard full-time duration of 3 years.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate a coherent understanding of science, in particular space science and astrophysics, by: 1.1 articulating the methods of science and explaining why current scientific knowledge is both contestable and testable by further inquiry 1.2 explaining the role and relevance of science in society.
- Exhibit depth and breadth of scientific knowledge by: 2.1 demonstrating well-developed knowledge in at least one disciplinary area in the field of space science and astrophysics 2.2 demonstrating knowledge in at least one other disciplinary area relevant to space science and astrophysics.
- Critically analyse and solve scientific problems in space science and astrophysics by: 3.1 gathering, synthesising and critically evaluating information from a range of sources 3.2 designing and planning an investigation 3.3 selecting and applying practical and/or theoretical techniques or tools in order to conduct an investigation 3.4 collecting, accurately recording, interpreting and drawing conclusions from scientific data 3.5 demonstrating the cooperativity and effectiveness of working in a team environment.
- Be effective communicators of science by: 4.1 communicating scientific results, information, or arguments, to a range of audiences, for a range of purposes, and using a variety of modes.
- Be accountable for their own learning and scientific work by: 5.1 being independent and self-directed learners 5.2 working effectively, responsibly and safely in an individual or team context 5.3 demonstrating knowledge of the regulatory frameworks relevant to space science and astrophysics and personally practicing ethical conduct.
Conditions
Interruption of program: Students must apply for permission from the Executive Dean or delegate before taking a Leave of Absence. Any extension of the leave without approval will result in the loss of place in the program but an application may be made to be re-admitted to the program subject to the admission procedures in place at the time.
Program Maximum Duration: As specified in Table 1 of the Coursework Academic Programs Policy, this program must be completed within a Maximum Duration which includes any periods of non-enrolment, leave of absence or approved study at other institutions for credit towards a Program.
Academic Program Rules for Bachelor of Science (Space Science and Astrophysics)
There shall be a Bachelor of Science (Space Science and Astrophysics).
Qualification Requirements
To qualify for the degree of Bachelor of Science (Space Science and Astrophysics), the student must complete satisfactorily a program of study consisting of the following requirements with a combined total of not less than 72 units, comprising:
- Core courses to the value of 48 units.
- Elective courses to the value of 24 units.
- Level I courses not exceeding 30 units.
- Level III Science courses to the value of at least 24 units.
- A major in Physics.
- Broadening experience.
Core Courses
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Core Courses
Level I
All of the following courses must be completed:
Subject/Catalogue Course Title Unit Value ENG 1002 Programming (Matlab and C) 3 MATHS 1011 Mathematics IA 3 MATHS 1012 Mathematics IB 3 PHYSICS 1007 Space Science and Astrophysics I 3 PHYSICS 1100ND Physics IA 3 PHYSICS 1200ND Physics IB 3 Level II
All of the following courses must be completed:
Subject/Catalogue Course Title Unit Value MATHS 2101 Multivariable & Complex Calculus II 3 MATHS 2102 Differential Equations II 3 PHYSICS 2510 Quantum Mechanics II 3 PHYSICS 2520 Solid State Physics & Photonics II 3 PHYSICS 2534 Electromagnetism II 3 PHYSICS 2536 Space Science and Astrophysics II 3 Level III - For a major in Physics
All of the following courses must be completed:
Subject/Catalogue Course Title Unit Value PHYSICS 3002 Experimental Physics III 3 PHYSICS 3532 Atmospheric and Astrophysics III 3 PHYSICS 3542 Physics III 6
Electives
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Elective Courses
To satisfy the requirements for Elective Courses students must complete courses to the value of 24 units.
Electives may include other undergraduate courses offered by the University that are not listed as elective courses from the degree of Bachelor of Science up to the value of 9 units in total at levels I and/or II with no more than 6 units at level I.
Level I
Courses to the value of up to 12 units may be taken from the following:
Subject/Catalogue Course Title Unit Value COMP SCI 1102 Object Oriented Programming 3 GEOLOGY 1100 Planet Earth 3 GEOLOGY 1103 Building a Habitable Planet 3 SCIENCE 1500 Introductory Data Science - Becoming Smart About Data 3 STATS 1000 Statistical Practice I 3 STATS 1005 Statistical Analysis and Modelling I 3 or
Level I Elective courses from the degree of Bachelor of Science or other undergraduate courses offered by the University that are available to the student.
Level II
Courses to the value of up to 12 units may be taken from the following:
Subject/Catalogue Course Title Unit Value PHYSICS 2532 Classical Physics II 3 or
Level II courses from the degree of Bachelor of Science or other undergraduate courses offered by the University that are available to the student.
Level III
Courses to the value of 12 units from the following:
Subject/Catalogue Course Title Unit Value GEOLOGY 3022 Geophysics IIIA: Potential Fields and Geothermics 3 GEOLOGY 3023 Geophysics IIIB: Electromagnetics and Seismology 3 PHYSICS 3534 Computational Physics III 3 PHYSICS 3540 Optics and Photonics III 3 SPATIAL 3010 Earth Observation III 3 or
Level III Elective courses from the degree of Bachelor of Science.
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Broadening Experience
The broadening experience requirement can be met by any of the following:
Study abroad or exchangeor
Courses to the value of at least 3 units from the following:
Subject/Catalogue Course Title Unit Value SCIENCE 3200 Communicating Science III 3 SCIENCE 3500 Science International Study Tour 3 SCIENCE 3510 Science International Study Tour B 3 STEM 3700 STEM Internship 3 or
courses outside the major area of study.