Certificate in Astronomy and Planetary Science: Standard pathway

Stage 1

You’ll study two 30-credit Level 2 modules. The first, Astronomy (S282)Astronomy::This course considers the structure, origin and evolution of stars, galaxies and the universe as a whole, asking questions such as: How are stars born, and what happens when they die? How do galaxies form, and how do we know that the universe began in a ‘big bang’? This introduction to astronomy investigates the stars and their life cycles, galaxies and quasars, and the origin and evolution of the universe – and how it might continue to evolve in the future. You’ll make use of computer-based resources and can undertake some straightforward project work, based on your observations of the sky.undergraduate.qualification.pathways.S10-1,module,S282,,1, introduces the structure, origin and evolution of stars, galaxies and the universe as a whole – asking questions such as: How are stars born, and what happens when they die? How do galaxies form, and how do we know that the universe began in a ‘big bang’? You’ll investigate the stars and their life cycles, galaxies and quasars, and the origin and evolution of the universe – and how it might continue to evolve in the future. You’ll make use of computer-based resources and have the opportunity to undertake some straightforward project work, based on your observations of the sky. 

Then Planetary science and the search for life (S283)Planetary science and the search for life::This course tackles fundamental questions about our Solar System. How did it form and how has it evolved? Why aren’t all the planets like Earth? How and why did life arise on Earth? Has life arisen elsewhere in the Solar System or beyond, and could it be intelligent? You’ll look at the exploration of the Solar System by spacecraft; planetary processes such as volcanism and impacts; the structure of planets and their atmospheres; and asteroids, comets and meteorites. You’ll use web-based resources and electronic conferencing extensively. Although the course is intended for a wide range of people, a background in science is required.undergraduate.qualification.pathways.S10-1,module,S283,,1 tackles fundamental questions about our Solar System. How did it form and how has it evolved? Why aren’t all the planets like Earth? How and why did life arise on Earth? Has life arisen elsewhere in the Solar System or beyond, and could it be intelligent? You’ll look at the exploration of the Solar System by spacecraft; planetary processes such as volcanism and impacts; the structure of planets and their atmospheres; and asteroids, comets and meteorites. You’ll use web-based resources and electronic conferencing extensively.

If you have already completed some successful study at higher education level at another institution you may be able to transfer credit for this study and count it towards an Open University qualification. If you wish to apply to transfer credit you must do so as soon as possible, and before you register for your chosen qualification. If you are awarded credit for study completed elsewhere, you may find that you need to study fewer OU modules to complete your qualification with us.

Visit our Credit Transfer site for more information and details of how to apply for credit transfer.