SAO Mathematical Requirements

Entry into the SAO degree programs do not require a previous undergraduate science degree so we will teach you all the physics you need to know. Some SAO units, however, do require some background mathematical experience.

Mathematics Background

The introductory-level units, HET602 Exploring the Solar System, HET603 Exploring Stars & the Milky Way, HET624 Galaxies and their Place in the Universe and HET607 History of Astronomy, require no background mathematical knowledge - they focus on a conceptual approach to astronomy. The more advanced-level units HET625 Cosmology and the Large-scale Structure of the Universe, HET611 Stellar Astrophysics and HET617 Major Project: Computational Astrophysics, assume some background mathematical knowledge. The following summary is a good guide for advanced-level units currently being offered:

Basic Algebra:
rules of algebra, functions, equations, cartesian coordinates, linear equations, graphs of simple equations, exponential functions & logarithms
Basic Geometry & Trigonometry:
straight lines, circles, ellipses, parabolas, spheres, definition & manipulation of simple trigonometric functions such as sine, cosine & tangent
Calculus:
graphical interpretation of differentiation & integration, eg. rate of change, instantaneous slope of a curve & differentiation, area under a curve & integration (integration & differentiation of mathematical expressions not required)

If other maths concepts & techniques are required, we will teach them as part of our course material (e.g. Fourier transforms are explained in HET608 Radio Astronomy & SETI).

Note that all SAO course material contain some mathematical equations - this is astronomy after all! Similarly, some questions in the computer managed tests that form part of the assessment may contain simple maths questions. These will usually be algebra of the type presented in the course material.

Bridging Mathematics

Course participants wishing to "brush up" their mathematics can use the above mathematics topics as a guide, and study from any suitable text.

As an alternative, for self-paced revision we can recommend: UNILEARN Senior Mathematics, Modules 1 to 3, a series of bridging mathematics workbooks published by the UNILEARN Learning Network Queensland. The topic of Module 1 is Introduction to Functions, Module 2 covers Coordinate Geometry & Trigonometry, and Module 3 introduces Calculus & its Applications. These Modules somewhat exceed the mathematics requirements listed above, particularly in the area of calculus, but they do provide a well thought-out learning program for bridging mathematics.

Each Module costs $AU 32.00 plus postage and handling. Note that some of the exercises in these Modules assume access to a graphics calculator. Swinburne University does not supply these Modules or provide further information about them. To order the Senior Mathematics Material from UNILEARN Learning Network Queensland, please fill in the UNILEARN materials order form. If you would like further information, visit www.unilearn.net.au or contact:

Email:	Jenelle.Benson@deta.qld.gov.au
Phone:	+61 7 3224 7347
Fax:	+61 7 3224 4608
Post:	Academic Services Learning Network Queensland PO Box 3165 South Brisbane BC QLD 4101 Australia