This is distance learning in every sense – exploring the galaxy from your home. It’s a chance to indulge in your passion for astronomy and cosmology, taking your studies at your pace.
Why study with us
- 1stin the UK for academic supportNational Student Survey (Physics and Astronomy) (compared with unis in the Guardian University Guide)
2023 - 6thin the UK for overall positivityNational Student Survey (Physics and Astronomy) (compared with unis in the Guardian University Guide)
2023
- This is the first and only online astronomy degree available from a UK university.
- Study at your own pace, choosing your modules each year. You can achieve a different qualification with each level you reach. After six years, you could get a BSc (Hons) degree.
- You’ll have the chance to work with observations from our £200,000 state-of-the-art robotic telescope for your dissertation.
What you'll do
- The course concentrates on the astronomical principles, avoiding complicated mathematics where it can.
- You’ll study astronomy, cosmology, astrobiology and our Milky Way and galaxies beyond.
- Learn from expert staff with research interests in solar and stellar astrophysics, and galactic and extragalactic astronomy.
Modules
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our published course information. However, our programmes are subject to ongoing review and development. Changing circumstances may cause alteration to, or the cancellation of, courses. Changes may be necessary to comply with the requirements of accrediting bodies or revisions to subject benchmarks statements. As well as to keep courses updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make variations if we consider such action to be necessary or in the best interests of students.
Institute of Physics (IOP)
The BSc (Hons) in Astronomy is recognised by the Institute of Physics (IOP) and all graduates are eligible for membership of the institute. Students on the course are eligible for IOP digital student membership.
Future careers in astronomy
While our BSc (Hons) Astronomy lets you explore your passions, it also offers the scientific skills and advanced understanding. This will enhance your career and open new possibilities such as postgraduate study.
Entry requirements
We will consider your educational achievements, predicted grades, work experience and personal statement. If you don't meet the grades for your chosen course, we will consider you for other programmes.
We know that many factors can influence the grades you achieve in school or college. If your life experience has affected your academic studies, we can take this into account. Use the UCAS Points Calculator below to check whether you are eligible.
Unsure if you meet our entry requirements? Contact our friendly Course Enquiries team to talk through your options.
- Entry to the BSc (Hons) degree programme is generally via prior study of one of the smaller awards (e.g. the Certificate of Higher Education in Astronomy).
- Those with A Levels may apply for direct entry to the degree programme.
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) from other institutions, such as the Open University and University College London, will be considered.
- UCAS: 128 points at A2 including pass in science or technology
- BTEC Extended Diploma: DDM
- Pass Access Course: 128 points
- International Baccalaureate Diploma: 128 points from Higher Level subjects
- IELTS: grade 6 with no component lower than 5.5
- GCSEs: 5 at grade C/4 including Maths and English or equivalent
Use our UCAS points calculator
Not got the grades?
Our courses with a foundation year could be exactly what you're looking for. They provide an alternative route to study for this degree.
Fees and funding
Scholarships and bursaries
We have a wide range of bursaries, scholarships and funds available to help support you whilst studying with us.
Select your country to see eligibility information and how to apply by selecting more info on the cards below.
Care Leaver Bursary
Our Care Leaver Bursary is for students who need extra support because they have been in care or are estranged from their parents.
Find out more about Care Leaver BursaryEstranged student support
Estranged Student Support Bursary is for students who need extra support because they are estranged from their parents.
Find out more about Estranged student supportLeverhulme Bursary
The Leverhulme Bursary supports UK undergraduate students in financial need.
Find out more about Leverhulme BursaryCare-experienced and Estranged Student Graduation Bursary
A bursary to support students who are care-leavers or estranged from their family, to transition to employment of post-graduate study.
Find out more about Care-experienced and Estranged Student Graduation Bursary
This course is delivered by the School of Engineering and Computing
For information on possible changes to course information, see our essential and important course information
You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at the University of Central Lancashire on our student contract page