Master of Science in Astronomy

University of Canterbury

The Master of Science usually consists of two parts: coursework and a thesis, allowing you to investigate areas of interest and conduct independent and original research. Over 30 subjects are available, and some can only be studied at postgraduate level, which can allow for specialisation in academic and career pathways. For more information about why you should consider studying a postgraduate science programme at UC, see the Postgraduate Prospectus. The MSc may be awarded with Distinction, Merit, or Honours. Astronomy and astrophysics are concerned with the study of the nature and distribution of matter and radiation throughout all time and space in the Universe. Astronomers have always been keen to harness the latest technological advances in their quest for ever more precise and revealing observations. As a consequence, astronomy in recent years has been one of the most rapidly expanding of all physical sciences and many exciting and unexpected discoveries continue to be made. Study Involve: UC is the only university in Aotearoa New Zealand to offer the study of Astronomy at all levels. Te Kura Matu, School of Physical and Chemical Sciences has an exciting programme of teaching and research, often using state-of-the-art facilities as part of its core work. These include: field stations for meteor and atmospheric research, which are located at Te Mata Hapuku Birdlings Flat, and at Scott Base, Antarctica an internationally important astronomical observatory at Ōtehīwai Mount John, Takapō Tekapo, equipped with computer-controlled instruments and cryogenic detectors UC-constructed Hercules, a high resolution spectograph to search for planets and do improved stellar astrophysics. The School collaborates nationally and internationally as well. For example, we have a collaboration with Nagoya University in Japan, who installed a 1. 8 metre telescope at Ōtehīwai Mount John for finding planets orbiting distant Milky Way stars.

Faculty of Science