Astrophysics/Astronomy in Australia (VIC)

[black]

Hey guys, got a few quick questions

Currently studying civil engineering at rmit, but getting very bored with it, and realising that I probably don't want to pursue this as a career

Just wondering what the job prospects are for an astronomer or astrphysicist in Australia, particularly around melbourne, and the income I could expect??

And what sort of education would be required, ie BSc at melbourne, or at rmit etc etc??

Thanks for the help in advance :)

[Barrykgerdes]

I don't want to be too pessimistic but a degree in any vocation without something else to go with it probably won't get you a better job than on a checkout at a supermarket or a fast food outlet. I have sat on interview boards.

I would expect the available careers in astronomy/astrophysics anywhere in Australia would number less that 1% of those looking for them. The openings in civil engineering would most certainly be a better % but you would still need something more than a degree.

Barry

[black]

Yes I understand that, and know that some form of experience in the field would be required, no matter what career I'm going for...just wondering whether I should continue my current study or transfer

[mswhin63]

I personally agree with the above, I spoke to a fellow student that I was with in the beginning, she went pure physics, I went with Electronic Engineering and Physics. She has decided to pulled out as there is not much prospect for a degree in Astrophysics alone so she decided to do go for Geophysics. I spoke to one of the consultants and there is a high call for geophysicists that can diverge there talent to earthly related applications while diverging into astro-geology as well.
I am now looking at continuing with my double degree and pursue maybe space engineering applications but I have left to door wide open for my future. The only issue I hope to deal with is age.

[astronut]

Amneesh,
Contact CAASTRO (http://www.caastro.org/contact) in Sydney, they will be able to help with all your questions.:)

[John W]

Hi,
It is hard to get a job in Astronomy but you are basically employed by a university or CSIRO. Get a BSc degree in Physics/ Mathematics first then specialise in Astronomy. Since you are in Melbourne you might try Swinburne University - it has post grad courses / online courses in Astronomy - also speak to its Astronomy dept (Dr Sarah Maddison I think) - I'm sure they will be helpful. Good luck.
Dr John Wilkinson