Undergraduate astronomy courses?

Hi Frank
I highly recommend the Open University as a distance learning option. I completed a number of science courses (hence the “S”) with them such as, S103, S151, S207, and S281 (Astronomy & Planetary Science), my tutor for this course worked in Dunsink Observatory at the time. Not sure if these courses are still in the same guise but you can tailor a wide range of courses for certificate, diploma, degree etc.
You get a lot of support with tutors and indeed can keep in contact with fellow students to help you along. Some courses require a week’s summer school. In my first year I went to Reading University and it was well worth it indeed. The OU courses are not cheap here in Ireland (they are subsidised in the UK and hence more attractive to take on), but you might be lucky in having a very nice employer to help you along financially. I think if you go full time study with OU by distance learning there are financial /Tax incentives, but you need to check up on this with Revenue.

Clear skies and good hunting
Mike

Frank

If you are doing a recognised course (which the Revenue publish a list of )and it is required for your work and you are self assessed you can deduct the cost on your tax return as a work expense. Best to talk to an accountant in advance.

Some interesting courses in UCLAN.
I see they are the only bricks n mortar uni offering
A distance BA.

johnomahony wrote:

If you are doing a recognised course (which the Revenue publish a list of )and it is required for your work and you are self assessed you can deduct the cost on your tax return as a work expense. Best to talk to an accountant in advance.

Never knew that John, I am also self employed and thought about distance learning but did not know it was deductible.

Seanie.

Frank, I did some of the modules via UCLAN distance learning and I am considering doing some more. I still have the notes/cd roms/text books etc. If you are seriously considering going this route send me a pm and you are welcome to have a look at this stuff.

Out of curiosity Conn, how many modules is the course.