Minor in Astronomy
Astronomy is a branch of science which features the study of celestial objects, space and our physical universe as a whole. The study of astronomy dates way back to pre-historic times, where humans have attempted to discover what lies beyond the Earth we live in. At that time, people associated cosmological phenomena and celestial bodies with gods and spirits; but as time progressed, they started to study astronomy systematically by observing and recording the movements of celestial bodies. Today, astronomy is not only an active research area in science, it has also become a hobby to many enthusiasts.
The minor in astronomy provided by the School of Physics is open to all full-time undergraduate students in USM, the courses are structured such that they are easily understood by students who have little to no background in physics and astronomy. However, students should still expect some SPM-level mathematical calculations throughout the courses. The School of Physics cordially invites all students who are interested in astronomy to join us in our minor programme: come, and let us discover the Universe together!
Objectives of the Programme
- To provide a general introduction to the wide area of astronomy;
- To provide a historical perspective of astronomy and trace its path to modern astronomy, crossing different civilisations; and
- To provide a hands-on experience of handling and assembling astronomical instruments and making sky observations.
Programme Learning Outcome
At the end of this programme, students will be able to:
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Define, interpret, explore and explain the basic foundations of astronomy;
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Recognise, assemble and use astronomical instruments;
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Recognise celestial objects in the universe, appreciate their beauty, and relate them with physical processes and theories;
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Understand the principles of measurements in astronomy, and perform simple astronomical calculations;
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Understand the principles of radio astronomy: its instruments, data processing and its contributions to mankind.
Programme Structure
To meet the requirements of a minor in astronomy, students are required to take the following 4 courses (16 credits) throughout their term of study in USM:
No pre-requisites are imposed on any of the courses listed above. Students under the School of Physics who do not intend to take up the minor are also allowed to take these courses as electives in contribution to their respective major programmes. For more details, students can refer to the Rancangan Minor booklet from this site (USM login is required).
Gallery
The following are some videos featuring Hon. Prof. Dr. Abdul Halim Abdul Aziz, where he introduces the USM astronomy minor programme and provides the synopses of two of the courses.
An Introduction to the Astronomy Minor in USM
ZCE275 Introduction to Astronomy
ZCE277 Structure of the Universe
Enquiries
For more information about the minor programme, please contact:
Deputy Dean (Academic, Career and International)
ASSOC. PROF. DR. ISKANDAR SHAHRIM MUSTAFA
Ext: 3650 / 6129
Course Lecturers
Hon. Prof. Dr. Abdul Halim Abdul Aziz (
Dr. Nur Azwin Ismail (
Dr. John Soo Yue Han (
Dr. Idahwati Sarudin (