Study Options

For those with an interest in the complex workings of the cosmos and a desire to further their understanding of the universe, New Zealand offers a wide range of opportunities. With its exceptional research facilities, remote locations, and clear skies, New Zealand provides unique opportunities for astronomy students to observe and explore the celestial realm. This page will provide an overview of the astronomy and space-related programs offered by universities and research institutes throughout the country, as well as the career pathways available to graduates in this fascinating field.

High School

Take science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects

Proficiency in STEM subjects lays the foundation for pursuing most careers in the space industry, offering a wider range of study and employment options. These subjects provide essential knowledge and problem-solving skills for various professions that demand innovation and critical thinking. Studying STEM subjects also fosters experimentation and experiential learning. To hone your STEM skills, consider participating in school competitions such as the Design a Satellite Mission essay competition. Additionally, initiatives like The Wonder Project and resources from the Science Learning Hub aim to inspire young Kiwis to pursue STEM fields.

Especially helpful NCEA subjects: Physics, Earth and Space Science, Calculus, Statistics, Chemistry, Biology

  • Dynamics of Stars and Planets

    Astrophysics

    Astrometry

    Computational Astronomy

  • Seeing Celestial Objects

    Observational Astronomy

  • Planets

    Planetary Science

    Geophysics

    Climatology

  • Origins & Evolution of the Universe

    Cosmology

    Astrochemistry

  • Invisible Phenomena

    Radio / Infrared / UV / X-Ray / Gamma-Ray Astronomy

    Spectroscopy

    Gravitational Waves

  • Life Beyond

    Astrobiology

    Biochemistry

  • Rockets & Satellites

    Aerospace Engineering

    Mechatronics Engineering

  • Systems & Space Data

    GIS

    Electrical Engineering

    Computer Science

    Applied Statistics

  • Humans in Space

    Environmental Engineering

    Space Law

    Space Medicine

NZ-specific options:

A little bit of everything:

Bachelor of Science: Space Science - Victoria University of Wellington See Here

By subject categories:

Collapsible content

Applied Statistics

The application of statistical methods to solve real-world problems. In astronomy, this might involve analyzing data from telescopes or spacecraft to draw meaningful conclusions about the universe.

Undergrad

Certificate in Science: Statistics - University of Canterbury

Diploma in Science: Statistics - University of Canterbury

Bachelor of Science: Statistics - University of Auckland

Bachelor of Science: Statistics - University of Canterbury

Bachelor of Science: Statistics - University of Auckland

Bachelor of Science: Statistics - University of Otago

Bachelor of Science: Statistics - Massey University

Graduate Certificate: Statistics - University of Waikato

Graduate Diploma: Statistics - University of Auckland

Graduate Diploma: Statistics - University of Canterbury

Graduate Diploma: Statistics - University of Waikato

Graduate Diploma: Statistics - University of Otago

Postgrad

Postgraduate Certificate: Statistics - University of Canterbury

Postgraduate Certificate: Statistics - University of Waikato

Postgraduate Diploma: Statistics - University of Otago

Postgraduate Diploma: Statistics - University of Auckland

Postgraduate Diploma: Statistics - University of Canterbury

Postgraduate Diploma: Statistics - University of Waikato

Master of Applied Statistics - Victoria University of Wellington

Master of Applied Science: Statistics - University of Otago

Master of Science (Research): Statistics - University of Waikato

Master of Mathematical Sciences: Statistics - University of Canterbury

Master of Science: Statistics - University of Auckland

Master of Science: Statistics - Massey University

PhD: Statistics - University of Auckland

PhD: Statistics - University of Canterbury

PhD: Statistics - University of Waikato

PhD: Statistics - University of Otago

Astrobiology

The study of the origin, evolution, and distribution of life in the universe. Astrobiology helps us understand the conditions necessary for life to exist on other planets or moons.

Courses

Astro 200 - University of Auckland

As this is a relatively new and growing field, the pathway to becoming an astrobiologist is to start with a Biology degree.

Astrochemistry

The study of the chemical composition and reactions of celestial objects. Astrochemistry helps us understand how the building blocks of life might form in space.

Astrochemistry is a very specialized field. Astrochemists need a strong background in chemistry, astrophysics, or related fields, as well as data analysis skills. Research positions typically require a Ph.D. and specialized experience in fields such as geosciences, physics, mathematics, or chemical biology. Collaboration with experts in other fields benefits from this interdisciplinary background. Observational instrument work requires at least a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Radio Physics or related fields, while modeling physical processes requires top-notch programming skills and expertise in theoretical physics, astrophysics, and mathematics.

Astrophysics

The branch of astronomy that deals with the physical and chemical properties of celestial objects and their interactions with the surrounding environment. Astrophysics helps us understand the behavior of stars, galaxies, and other celestial objects.

Astrometry

The measurement of the positions and motions of celestial objects. Astrometry helps us create maps of the universe and track the movements of planets and stars.

Aerospace Engineering

The design and construction of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. Aerospace engineering is essential to building and launching telescopes and other astronomical instruments.

Climatology

The study of climate and its variability over time. In astronomy, climatology might be used to understand how changes in the Earth's climate affect observations of the night sky, or the conditions on other planets.

Computational Astronomy

The use of computer simulations and models to study astronomical phenomena. Computational astronomy helps us test theories and predictions about the universe.

Computer Science

The study of computers and computational systems. In astronomy, computer science is essential to developing algorithms and software for processing and analyzing astronomical data.

Cosmology

The study of the origin, evolution, and structure of the universe. Cosmology helps us understand the nature of dark matter, dark energy, and the Big Bang.

Electrical Engineering

The design and application of electrical systems and devices. In astronomy, electrical engineering is important for designing and building electronics for telescopes and spacecraft.

Environmental Engineering

The application of engineering principles to protect and improve the natural environment. In astronomy, environmental engineering might be used to reduce light pollution on Earth, or potentially with terraforming other planets.

Geophysics

The study of the physical properties and processes of the Earth. In astronomy, geophysics might be used to understand the Earth's magnetic field and its effects on astronomical observations, or the habitability of other planets.

GIS

The collection, analysis, and interpretation of geographic data. In astronomy, GIS might be used to create maps of the night sky or to study the distribution of galaxies and other celestial objects.

Gravitational Waves

Ripples in spacetime caused by the acceleration of massive objects. The detection of gravitational waves has opened up a new window on the universe and allowed us to study phenomena such as black holes and neutron stars.

Mechatronics Engineering

The design and application of advanced mechanical and electronic systems. In astronomy, mechatronics engineering might be used to build complex instruments for telescopes or spacecraft.

Observational Astronomy

The collection and analysis of data from astronomical observations. Observational astronomy is essential for studying celestial objects and phenomena.

Planetary Science

The study of planets, moons, and other objects in our solar system and beyond. Planetary science helps us understand the history and evolution of our solar system and the potential for life on other planets.

Radio / Infrared / UV / X-Ray / Gamma-Ray Astronomy

The study of celestial objects and phenomena at different wavelengths of the electromagnetic spectrum. Studying different wavelengths allows us to understand different aspects of the universe.

Space Law

The body of law that governs space-related activities and is essential for ensuring the peaceful and responsible exploration and use of space.

Space Medicine

The field of medicine that studies the effects of space travel on the human body and develops methods to keep astronauts healthy during long-term space missions.

Spectroscopy