[Ralph Davey (Ralph)]

Hi Ice in Spacers!

My name is Ralph, and this is my first post so please excuse me if I'm re-inventing the wheel! Besides that, I hope to have some good Astronomy based conversation with other members, so its good to be here!

I'm thinking of taking the plunge and studying Astronomy. I've looked at the distance education courses and Swinburne and JCU seem to be the most perfered. I'm opting for the JCU graduate certificate to start with, as this can potentially lead to further "career changing" studies (Masters etc), however, I'm playing it safe by starting with their lower course as I'm not sure if I want to commit to anything larger yet and may want to keep astronomy as my hobby, not a career option. However, this low investment option will give me a taste of whats to come!

My main issue is that my background is in human resources, and although I have a tertiary degree which will get me into the course (any bachelors degree is fine to start the program), I know that I don't have the required physics/maths background, with the exception of year 12 maths and am not sure what to expect. I've looked at all the threads that have covered this topic before, so any advice from JCU alumni would be great as I've still got till next year to prepare!

I spoke with the course coordinator at JCU and he was very helpful and reassuring regarding my background and told me that the two units; Modern Astrophysics and Astronomy Instrumentation, are not too intense and that the required Maths would be introduced. While I dont doubt his sincerity, I used to work for a TAFE and know that getting numbers into a course is the prefered option for educators. Having said that, he did state that the other coursework units were more intense at a Diploma and Masters level.

As far as I'm aware, both units are graded on assignments, tutorials and a final exam. Being an amateur observational astronomer for quite some time, I'm sure I'll be fine with assignments based on astronomical theory. However, if any of the JCU alumni could offer any tips or advice of what to expect regarding the intensity of these units, and any pre-physics/maths advice it would be a great head start.

My appologies in advance for making my first post such a cry for help, hopefully I can repay the community by helping someone else down the track!

Thanks again!

Best,
Ralph