New world-class astronomy facilities such as the Square Kilometre Array and the Southern African Large Telescope require a new generation of South African astronomers to help uncover the secrets of the Universe. In light of this, the School of Mathematics, Statistics & Computer Science and the School of Chemistry & Physics at UKZN will be offering a new Major in Astronomy from 2015. This Major will be taught by academic staff at UKZN’s Astrophysics and Cosmology Unit (ACRU).

The Astronomy major is part of a BSc degree in the Mathematical Sciences stream and includes five new specialised modules. Upon completion, students may engage in postgraduate research or enter a career in Astrophysics and Cosmology. Apart from learning about cutting-edge topics in astronomy, students will also acquire skills in statistics, data analysis, scientific computing, problem solving, and communication which are in high demand in a wide range of careers.

For further information regarding the Astronomy Major and available bursaries, contact Mr Strini Rajopaul acru@cs.ukzn.ac.za (tel: 031 260 7138).