Physics-Astronomy Bachelor Program

The Physics/Astronomy Bachelor program at the King Abdulaziz University (KAU) was first introduced in 1976 under the Department of Physics. It was then shifted to the Department of Astronomy upon its establishment in 1979. The program was designed to produce highly qualified and well-trained Astrophysicist who can fulfill the different demands in multiple fields such as education, observational work and research. The program exposes students to a wide variety of topics in Physics and Astrophysics such as Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Celestial Mechanics, Solar & Solar System Physics, Stellar & Galactic Astronomy and Radio Astronomy. The Physics/Astronomy Bachelor program has undergone several semi-periodic improvements over the years to better meet the program expectations. 

PROGRAM MISSION

The current mission statement of KAU is:

"Community Responsibility: Knowledge Development, Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship".

This statement is accessible on the University website:

http://www.kau.edu.sa/Pages-University-Mission.aspx

PROGRAM EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES

In ABET, PEOs are “broad statements that describe what graduates are expected to attain within a few years of graduation. Program educational objectives are based on the needs of the program’s constituencies”. Our PEOs cover three classic objectives: professional practice expectations (PEO-1, below), societal context, i.e., how graduates fit or fulfill their expected role in society (PEO-2), and the academic/professional growth (PEO-3). The PEO are stated as follows:

PEO-1: Have a successful career in Astronomy & Space Science and related applications in variety of fields such as space dynamics, physics, mathematics, computer programming and software applications.

PEO-2: Enhance qualities of responsibility and leadership, and contribute to dissemination of Astronomy culture and in economic growth as well as in the sustainable development of Saudi Arabia.

PEO-3: Engage in professional development and/or graduate studies to pursue flexible career paths amid future technological change.

STUDENT OUTCOMES

1. An ability to identify, formulate, and solve broadly defined technical or scientific problems by applying knowledge of mathematics and science and/or technical topics to areas relevant to the discipline.
2. An ability to formulate or design a system, process, procedure or program to meet desired needs.
3.  An ability to develop and conduct experiments or test hypothesis, analyze and interpret data and use scientific judgment to draw conclusions.
4. An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences.
5. An ability to understand ethical and professional responsibilities and the impact of technical and/or scientific solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts.
6. An ability to function effectively on teams that establish goals, plan tasks, meet deadlines, and analyze risk and uncertainty.

ENROLLEES/ GRADUATES