Studying a BSc [mathematics/physics] (Unisa?)

[Polk]

Kinda

Some very useful people at UNISA here. Astronomy is no longer offered as a Major but the central folks haven't yet told anyone else about it so had some very interesting conversations

Anyway, it basically breaks down that the best thing to go for is a BSc. General with:

1st Year (8 modules):

AST1631 - GENERAL INTROD TO ASTRONOMY
AST1534 - SPHER ASTRON AND KEPL ORBITS
(1) PHY1506 - ELECTROMAGNETISM & HEAT
(2) PHY1505 - MECHANICS
(3) MAT1512 - CALCULUS A
(4) PHY1604 - MODERN PHYSICS
(5) MAT1613 - CALCULUS B
(6) PHY1503 - PHYSICS PRACTICAL WORK I

2nd Year (12 Modules):
3 Maths
4 Physics
AST2651 (PR: 1,2,3)
AST2652 (PR: 1,2,3,4,5)
AST2655 (PR: 6,7)

3rd Year (10 modules)
5 Maths
5 Physics

(7) PHY1038 which is a prereq for AST2655 is the only mystery. It's listed as a prereq but not listed at all in the current list of modules so have to phone and ask them about that

Besides that, it shooould all work out and let me carry on Astonomy at a postgrad level. *phew*

Looks good. Did they recommend app or pure math for the major? Or is it a mix?

 

[Bar0n]

Looks good. Did they recommend app or pure math for the major? Or is it a mix?

My guess would be a mix. You need to have a good understanding of pure math, even though astronomy might focus on applied.

 

[AntiThesis]

Well, the only prereq. for the astronomy modules are those two MAT modules and some PHY ones above. I'll scrub up on all the various bits of maths via MIT or one of the schools that provide open courseware. Bonus, I get to watch Walter Lewin do his thing.

Love his style

 

[ponder]

Bonus, I get to watch Walter Lewin do his thing.

Love his style

I love lecturers like that, their passion is contagious and makes classes interesting.