Astronomy is the study of everything in the universe beyond Earth’s atmosphere. That includes objects we can see with our naked eyes, like the Sun , the Moon , the planets, and the stars .
Astronomers apply the principles of physics and mathematics to learn more about the universe. They gather data on the characteristics of planets, moons, stars, and other objects using telescopes and computer programs. Astronomers usually specialize in certain types of celestial bodies or events, such as black holes or planetary systems. Typical duties include developing and testing scientific theories, analyzing data, and writing research proposals. They also spend time composing scientific papers and presenting their findings to others in the field.
Educational Requirements
For those interested in pursuing a career in astronomy, students will need to complete a Bachelor’s degree. A Bachelor’s degrees in physics (with additional courses taken in astronomy, chemistry, and geology) or astronomy (with additional courses taken in physics and mathematics) are most commonly accepted for graduate programs in astronomy. Most Ph.D. programs also recommend taking classes in the social sciences, humanities, and writing. In addition, because astronomy graduate programs are highly competitive, beginning research early in an academic career can be very beneficial. Students should be open to interning at astronomy labs, working with professors on research projects, and/or completing an undergraduate thesis project to make themselves more competitive for these graduate programs. Some Ph.D. programs will require students to complete a Master’s of Science degree prior to entering a Ph.D. program, while others only require a Bachelor’s degree.
Astronomy positions require a Ph.D. in the field of astronomy, which usually takes 5-7 years to complete. These programs are likely to contain courses in astrophysics, stellar and planetary physics, galaxies, cosmology, interstellar medium, and optics. Mathematics and computer science are also emphasized.
After completing a Ph.D. program, aspiring astronomers often enter one or more postdoctoral research positions. These take roughly 2-3 years to complete. Postdoctoral scholars work under senior astronomers before taking on more complex projects. Astronomers who are employed by the federal government may need to obtain proper security clearance.
Required Skills
According to the BLS, astronomers must have the ability to solve complex problems, conduct research, and accurately analyze data. They need strong math and science skills, along with being about to work within a team. It also helps to have knowledge of specific science-related software programs.
Where to Study Astronomy
Wits University – BSC Astronomy
Entry Requirements
APS 43+
English Home Language OR First Additional Language Level 5
Mathematics Level 6
Physical ScienceLevel 6
Wait-listing
Applicants with 40-42 points may be wait-listed, subject to place availability.
University of South Africa – Astronomy
Major combinations:
NQF Level: 5: AST1534, MAT1503, MAT1512, PHY1503, PHY1505, PHY1506
NQF Level: 6: APM2611, AST2651, AST2652, AST2655, MAT2615, MAT1613, PHY1604
NQF Level: 7: APM3712, APM3713, AST3755, AST3763
Astronomy (with Astronomy and Applied Mathematics major)
General Information: In this case another combination of four APM modules on NQF Level: 7 may be selected. Seven modules at NQF Level: 5 or NQF Level: 7 (at least 2 must be at
NQF Level: 7) are needed to complete the degree and can be selected from any other BSc subjects.
Major combinations:
NQF Level: 5: APM1513, AST1534, MAT1503, MAT1512, PHY1503, PHY1505, PHY1506
NQF Level: 6: APM1612, APM2611, AST2651, AST2652, AST2655, MAT2611, MAT1613, MAT2613, MAT2615, PHY1604
NQF Level: 7: APM3701, APM3712, APM3713, AST3755, AST3763, MAT3706
Astronomy (with Astronomy and Mathematics major)
General information: The remaining modules required to complete the BSc degree (3 at NQF Level: 6 and 2 at NQF Level: 7) can be selected from those in any other BSc subject.
Major combinations:
NQF Level: 5: APM1513, AST1534, MAT1503, MAT1512, PHY1503, PHY1505, PHY1506
NQF Level: 6: APM1612, APM2611, AST2651, AST2652, AST2655, MAT1613, MAT2611, MAT2613, MAT2615, PHY1604
NQF Level: 7: APM3712, MAT3701 or MAT3711, APM3713, AST3755, AST3763, MAT3702, MAT3705
Astronomy (with Astronomy and Physics major)
Major combinations:
NQF Level: 5: APM1513, AST1534, MAT1503, MAT1512, PHY1503, PHY1505, PHY1506
NQF Level: 6: APM1612, APM2611, AST2651, AST2652, AST2655, MAT1613, MAT2613, MAT2615, PHY1604, PHY2601, PHY2602, PHY2606
NQF Level: 7: APM3712, APM3713, AST3755, AST3763, MAT3705, PHY3702, PHY3703, PHY3707
How much do astronomers earn in South Africa?
The average astronomer salary in South Africa is R818,445 or an equivalent hourly rate of R393. In addition, they earn an average bonus of R34,784. Salary estimates based on salary survey data collected directly from employers and anonymous employees in South Africa.
Which universities offer astronomy in South Africa?
Where to study astronomy
- The National Astronomy and Space Science Programme. (run by a consortium of institutions) …
- University of Cape Town.
- University of the Free State.
- University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.
- University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg.
- North-West University.
- Rhodes University.
- University of South Africa.
How many years does it take to study astronomy in South Africa?
This can take from one to three years.