Planetary Sciences (Graduate Certificate)

The Graduate Certificate in Planetary Sciences at Birkbeck University of London is a unique opportunity for students to explore the wonders of our solar system and beyond. This interdisciplinary program draws on expertise from a range of fields, including astronomy, geophysics, and space science. Students will gain a deep understanding of the structure, composition, and evolution of planets, moons, asteroids, comets, and other celestial bodies, as well as the latest research techniques and technologies used in planetary science. This program is ideal for students who are passionate about space exploration and want to pursue a career in this exciting field.

Additional Information

Students will have access to cutting-edge facilities and research opportunities, including the Birkbeck Observatory and the London Astrophysics Group. The program is designed to be flexible, with students able to tailor their coursework to suit their interests and career goals. Graduates of this program will be well-prepared for careers in academia, industry, or government, and will have a solid foundation for pursuing further research in planetary science.

Discover the Wonders of Space at Birkbeck University of London

Birkbeck University of London is an ideal place to study planetary sciences due to its world-class facilities, expert faculty, and strong research culture. Birkbeck has a long history of excellence in astronomy and space science, and students will have access to cutting-edge research opportunities and state-of-the-art equipment. The program is also designed to provide students with a broad range of skills and knowledge that will serve them well in their future careers.

This is a very exciting time for planetary science, with new data being returned by spacecraft from planets within our own solar system and thousands of planets now being discovered orbiting other stars. There is also growing scientific interest in the likelihood of life elsewhere in the universe. You will be taught by academics who are actively engaged in cutting-edge planetary research that is expanding the boundaries of knowledge. We cover planetary surfaces and remote sensing, volcanic activity on Earth and other planets, the nature of comets, asteroids, and meteorites, and the internal structure and origin of planets. We also offer advanced modules in astronomy, scientific computing, and the design of, and participation in, an analog field mission. You can choose from a range of modules and design a program that matches, expands, and deepens your particular interests. Our teaching philosophy is based around flexibility, allowing you to fit the certificate around your lifestyle. We embrace new technology and methods to make learning accessible to all and have been running remote as well as face-to-face lectures for more than 20 years. This means you can attend classes with our internationally distinguished researchers in our world-class laboratories in London or you can watch live streams/recorded lectures at home using our cutting-edge online teaching platform. You are free to mix both these methods to find the best balance for you. Graduates go into careers in geology and postgraduate training in planetary sciences, astronomy, and related fields. Graduates can pursue careers in other areas of industry or education. This degree may also be useful in becoming an astronomer, research scientist, or higher education lecturer.

Applicants should hold an undergraduate degree in geology, earth sciences, geological sciences, or equivalent, and have a basic knowledge of the architecture of the solar system.