What is SAO?

Swinburne Astronomy Online (SAO) is a postgraduate degree program allowing you to study astronomy online. It is an established program, operating since 1999. It concentrates on the fundamental concepts of and key issues in contemporary astronomy. Designed for science educators and communicators, people working in astronomy-related fields, amateur astronomers, and anyone who loves astronomy, SAO also concentrates on building skills to communicate one's science knowledge to others. SAO is a global program in which students from all over the world may enrol. SAO has had many students from the USA, Canada, the UK, Europe, and Australia. Some students join SAO to enhance their qualifications with a Master of Science in Astronomy, while others wish to study one or more introductory-level astronomy units.

The Master of Science (Astronomy) [12 units] is part of a nested suite of postgraduate programs, which also includes the Graduate Certificate of Science (Astronomy) [4 units] and the Graduate Diploma of Science (Astronomy) [8 units]. There are several entry points depending on one's previous academic studies and work experience. All SAO degrees are awarded and fully accredited by Swinburne University of Technology, a recognised university by the Australian Federal Government.

SAO is operated within the Centre for Astrophysics & Supercomputing and the Department of Physics & Astronomy, which are part of the School of Science, Computing and Engineering Technologies at Swinburne University of Technology located in the suburb of Hawthorn, Melbourne, Australia.

Degree programs offered:

  • Master of Science (Astronomy);
  • Graduate Diploma of Science (Astronomy);
  • Graduate Certificate of Science (Astronomy).
We also offer individual unit enrolments.


Swinburne's Advanced Technology Centre building

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