Minor in Astronomy

Astronomy is one of the oldest of the natural sciences and continues to be relevant today. The study of astronomy provides a broader perspective on the development of civilisation, science and the scientific method as well as the data analytics necessary to support such endeavours.

Students will learn the fundamental physics underlying celestial objects such as how and why planets orbit the sun, and how stars work. In addition, students will learn how to operate a small telescope, and be exposed to the practice of data collection, interpretation and analysis in the astronomical context. Group activities will be widely used throughout this minor. In addition, some courses may incorporate some active elements of science communication to encourage students to step out of their comfort zone and engage people.

The basic structure of the Minor in Astronomy is 5 courses, 3 of which are essential and 2 are elective: Read all of:
  • GEH1031 Understanding the Universe or HSI2012 From Ancient Cosmologies to Big Bang
  • PC2411 Practical Astronomy
Read either of:
  • PC2412 Celestial Exploration (Recommended)
  • PC2132 Classical Mechanics I
Read any two courses from the following list:
  • PC3411 The First 3 Minutes of the Universe
  • PC3412 How Stars Work
  • PC3413 From Data to a Galaxy
  • XD3103 Planet Earth or HS2907 Earth and Beyond

For more information and queries on this minor, please contact: Dr. Abel Yang (email: phyyja@nus.edu.sg) or Dr Cindy Ng (email: phynsc@nus.edu.sg).