The module introduces the fundamental concepts of modern cosmology and selected topics in extragalactic astrophysics. You’ll develop skills in applying the ideas of cosmology and the astrophysics of the distant Universe through problem-solving and using and interpreting observational evidence. You’ll explore how this evidence supports current theories about the Universe and its evolution and gain an understanding of current open questions and the limitations of our knowledge.
The module comprises printed books, supporting practical activities and online content.
Cosmology provides a thorough introduction to modern cosmology, beginning with an overview of current understanding to provide context for the more specialised topics that follow. You’ll then explore the basic concepts and mathematical language of special and general relativity, learning how these underpin our ability to describe the geometry of the Universe. The module introduces the metric describing the geometry of the Universe and the Friedmann equations that describe its expansion. You’ll learn how a small set of cosmological parameters define spacetime’s past and future evolution, then explore the key observational evidence supporting the current model and how observations measure these fundamental parameters. In later parts, you’ll follow a history of the Universe from the earliest particle interactions to the formation of structure via gravitational collapse and, eventually, the birth of stars and galaxies.
Three Python-based practical activities support this part of the module, providing hands-on experience working with cosmological models and observations.
The Distant Universe provides a series of in-depth study topics in extragalactic astrophysics, linked to each other and Cosmology by themes of relativity and the interaction of matter and radiation. You’ll examine how we find and study the first galaxies and learn about their impact on their surroundings. You’ll then consider in more depth how to use the technique of gravitational lensing – the bending of light by massive objects – to learn about distant galaxies and more nearby objects. You’ll also learn about the dynamic processes in the Universe’s most massive structures, galaxy clusters. Finally, the module introduces the topic of high-energy astrophysics; you’ll learn about observations and models of extreme phenomena, including jets from supermassive black holes and gamma-ray bursts.
Two further Python-based practical activities support Book 2, The Distant Universe.
You’ll build on your mathematical, physics and astronomy knowledge to further develop your understanding of fundamental concepts in physics and astronomy in the specific context of cosmology and astrophysical phenomena associated with the distant Universe.
You’ll develop skills in quantitative and computational problem-solving and organising and assessing evidence to support arguments and ideas in astrophysics and cosmology. Coding is an important practical and professional skill; you’ll develop this by exploring real astrophysical data and models, applying cosmology and astrophysics concepts.
You’ll get help and support from an assigned tutor throughout your module.
They’ll help by:
Online tutorials run throughout the module. While they’re not compulsory, we strongly encourage you to participate. Where possible, we’ll make recordings available.
Course work includes:
You’ll have access to a module website, which includes:
We also provide physical:
You can study this module on its own or use the credits you gain towards an Open University qualification.
S385 is an option module in our:
Cosmology and the distant Universe (S385) starts once a year – in October.
It will next start in October 2026.
We expect it to start for the last time in October 2030.
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the academic regulations, which are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.
There are no formal entry requirements for this module.
At The Open University, we believe education should be open to all, so we provide high-quality university education to anyone who wishes to realise their ambitions and fulfil their potential.
Even though there are no entry requirements, you’ll need an appropriate knowledge of mathematics and physics obtained through:
Are you ready for S385?
We recommend that you’ve completed:
Plus:
This module includes Python coding activities, which assume a good computing ability. If you’ve passed SXPS288, your coding experience should be appropriate. Otherwise, we recommend you undertake some Python preparation. Once a student, you can access the ‘Programming for Physical Sciences’ resource page with self-study material.
The OU strives to make all aspects of study accessible to everyone, and this Accessibility Statement outlines what studying S385 involves. You should use this information to inform your study preparations and any discussions with us about how we can meet your needs.
To find out more about what kind of support and adjustments might be available, contact us or visit our Disability support website.
| Start | End | Register by | England fee |
|---|
| No current presentation |
There may be extra costs on top of the tuition fee, such as set books, a computer and internet access.
If your income is not more than £25,000 or you receive a qualifying benefit, you might be eligible for help with some of these costs after your module has started.
There may be extra costs on top of the tuition fee, such as set books, a computer and internet access.
If your personal income is £25,000 or less, or you’re on certain benefits, you could qualify for a grant and OU top-up funding to cover 100% of your course fees. Apply online at the same time as you register on your module.
For more information on how to apply, visit our Part-Time Fee Grants for students in Scotland page.
The Open University Student Budget Accounts Ltd (OUSBA) offers a convenient 'pay as you go' option to pay your OU fees, which is a secure, quick and easy way to pay. Please note that The Open University works exclusively with OUSBA and is not able to offer you credit facilities from any other provider. All credit is subject to status and proof that you can afford the repayments.
You pay the OU through OUSBA in one of the following ways:
Joint loan applications
If you feel you would be unable to obtain an OUSBA loan on your own due to credit history or affordability issues, OUSBA offers the option to apply for a joint loan application with a third party. For example, your husband, wife, partner, parent, sibling or friend. In such cases, OUSBA will be required to carry out additional affordability checks separately and/or collectively for both joint applicants who will be jointly and severally liable for loan repayments.
As additional affordability checks are required when processing joint loan applications, unfortunately, an instant decision cannot be given. On average, the processing time for a joint loan application is five working days from receipt of the required documentation.
Read more about Open University Student Budget Accounts (OUSBA).
Studying with The Open University can boost your employability. OU courses are recognised and respected by employers for their excellence and the commitment they take to complete. They also value the skills that students learn and can apply in the workplace.
Over 30,000 employers have used the OU to develop staff so far. If the module you’ve chosen is geared towards your job or developing your career, you could approach your employer to see if they will sponsor you by paying some or all of the fees.
You can pay part or all of your tuition fees upfront with a debit or credit card when you register for each module.
We accept American Express, Mastercard, Visa and Visa Electron.
We know that sometimes you may want to combine payment options. For example, you may wish to pay part of your tuition fee with a debit card and pay the remainder in instalments through an Open University Student Budget Account (OUSBA).
We know that sometimes you may want to combine payment options. For example, you may get support from your employer to pay part of your tuition fee and pay the remainder by credit or debit card.
For more information about combining payment options, contact an adviser.
Please note: your permanent address/domicile will affect your fee status and, therefore, the fees you are charged and any financial support available to you. The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2026. Fees typically increase annually. For further information about the University's fee policy, visit our Fee Rules.
