Online Class: History of the Universe

This course will explore the very beginnings of our Universe and examine its fundamental components. We will explore the formation and basic elements of our own solar system, and we will reach out from there--deep into the darkness to explore the sometimes exotic and always fascinating elements of space.

Self-Paced, Online Class
Library Subscription
 
  • 13
    Lessons
  • 15
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 7
    Hours
    average time
  • 0.7
    CEUs
 
 

Course Description

Journey Beyond the Stars: Understanding the Universe and its Mysteries

For countless generations, the cosmos has held humanity in its thrall, the glittering expanse of the night sky serving as a canvas for our questions, dreams, and speculations. Pioneers of ancient civilizations gazed upwards with wonder, seeking patterns in the stars and crafting myths to explain the celestial phenomena they witnessed. They contemplated a question that has intrigued every subsequent generation: How did it all begin?

Centuries of persistent curiosity led us to imagine a Universe without bounds, one that was timeless and endless. However, modern scientific advancements and breakthroughs over the last century have radically reshaped this perception. Today, while we possess a more detailed roadmap of cosmic evolution, this knowledge only adds layers to the enigma, encouraging us to delve even deeper.

Course Overview:

This enlightening course will journey through the vastness of space, retracing the steps of our Universe's inception, and branching out to the mesmerizing wonders it harbors. We shall dive into our solar system's intricate dance and further venture into the vast interstellar medium, aiming to grasp its profound mysteries.

Furthermore, our expedition will not just focus on celestial bodies but also celebrate the monumental discoveries and trailblazing minds that have expanded the horizons of our understanding.

Detailed Syllabus:

  1. In the Beginning...The Big Bang: Delve into the explosive event that marked the inception of our Universe, understanding its nuances and implications.

  2. Our Sun and Other Stars: Explore the fiery furnace of our solar system, the Sun, and journey across the galaxy, learning about stars' life cycles.

  3. The Moon: Understand our closest celestial neighbor's role in shaping Earth's history and its significance in space exploration.

  4. The Inner Planets: Study the rocky worlds close to our Sun – Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars, each with its unique attributes.

  5. The Outer Planets: Journey to the gas giants and ice giants—Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune—and comprehend their dynamic atmospheres and intriguing moons.

  6. The Asteroid Belt, the Kuiper Belt, and Pluto: Navigate the crowded regions of our solar system, observing the remnants of its formation.

  7. The Constellations, Nebulae, and Meteors: Discover the stories written in the stars, and learn about the vast cosmic clouds and periodic visitors that light up our skies.

  8. Global Warming: Understand this critical Earth-centric issue, its implications on our planet, and its relation to the cosmic environment.

  9. Black Holes, Gamma-Ray Bursts, Neutrinos, and Other Phenomena in the Universe: Peer into the enigmatic regions of the cosmos, unveiling the mysteries of these powerful cosmic entities.

  10. Comets: Trace the icy wanderers of our solar system, understanding their significance in deciphering the Universe's history.

  11. The History of Knowledge About the Universe: Pay homage to the milestones and masterminds that paved the path for our current understanding.

  12. Space Exploration, the International Space Station, and the Hubble Space Telescope: Celebrate human endeavors in space, our eyes above the atmosphere, and the groundbreaking discoveries they've facilitated.

  13. Exoplanets and Extraterrestrial Life: Explore worlds beyond our solar system and contemplate the possibility of life elsewhere in the Universe.

Who Should Enroll?:

  • Astrophiles: Whether you're a professional astronomer or someone who simply loves stargazing, this course offers a wealth of knowledge.

  • Students: Enhance your understanding of the Universe, a perfect supplement to your academic pursuits.

  • Curious Minds: If the vast expanse of space has ever intrigued you, this journey will satisfy your thirst for knowledge.

In sum, the Universe is an ever-evolving tapestry of mysteries, a canvas of questions waiting to be answered. By enrolling in this course, you are taking a significant step towards grasping its complexities, reveling in its wonders, and understanding our place in this grand cosmic scheme. Dive deep into the celestial ocean, and let's explore the Universe together!

Courses Frequently Bought Together:
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.6 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(729 votes)
  • Lesson 1 : In the Beginning...The Big Bang

    For many centuries, scientists generally held the belief that the Universe was truly infinite – many people believed that it neither had a beginning nor an end.
  • Lesson 2 : Our Sun and Other Stars

    To begin our journey in studying the Universe, we must first begin in our own backyard, and we will start with the most prominent member of our Solar System: the Sun.
  • Lesson 3 : The Moon

    Besides Earth, scientists know more about the Moon than any other object in our solar system. Our knowledge of the Moon has led to very significant discoveries in planetary formation, orbits, and many other astronomical topics.
  • Lesson 4 : The Inner Planets

    In order to properly study the history of the planets in our solar system, it is wise to separate the planets into two groups, the inner and outer planets.
  • Lesson 5 : The Outer Planets

    The outer planets of our solar system are Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. They are often referred to as the "gas giants," as they are comprised primarily of gas.
  • Lesson 6 : The Asteroid Belt, the Kuiper Belt, and Pluto

    Anyone who has ever studied a chart of the planets has noticed that there is a huge distance separating the fourth planet, Mars, from the fifth planet, Jupiter.
  • Lesson 7 : The Constellations, Nebulae, and Meteors

    Ever since mankind has looked at the night sky, we have been able to identify patterns of stars that form familiar, although sometimes unusual, patterns.
  • Lesson 8 : Global Warming

    There has been an enormous amount of discussion and debate in recent times about the subject of Global Warming. To many people, this is a politically charged topic, with liberals on one side and conservatives on the other.
  • Lesson 9 : Black Holes, Gamma-Ray Bursts, Neutrinos, and Other Phenomena in the Universe

    In the vast and limitless Universe, there are few objects that are more fascinating that Black Holes, Gamma-Ray Bursts, and Neutrinos.
  • Lesson 10 : Comets

    Throughout this course, we have discussed phenomena such as black holes and meteors, but an entire chapter must be devoted to comets alone due to their significance in the history of the Universe.
  • Lesson 11 : The History of Knowledge About the Universe

    In a course devoted to the history and topics of the Universe, we must examine some of the greatest thinkers and scientists who have contributed the most to our knowledge of the Universe.
  • Lesson 12 : Space Exploration, the International Space Station, and the Hubble Space Telescope

    In this chapter, we will discuss our exploration of space, from manned missions into space, non-manned probes into space, our most sophisticated telescopes.
  • Lesson 13 : Exoplanets and Extraterrestrial Life

    For as long as mankind has inhabited the Earth and looked to the sky, we have wondered about the possibility of life on other planets.
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Describe our sun and other stars.
  • Describe the moon.
  • Describe the inner and outer planets.
  • Describe the asteroid belt, the kuiper belt, and pluto.
  • Describe the constellations, nebulas, and meteors.
  • Describe black holes, gamma-ray bursts, neutrinos, and other phenomena in the universe.
  • Describe comets.
  • Summarize the history of knowledge about the universe.
  • Describe space exploration, the international space station, and the hubble space telescope.
  • Describe exoplanets and extraterrestrial life.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: History of the Universe
Course Number: 7550432
Lessons Rating: 4.6 / 5 Stars (729 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: This course is online and available in all 50 states including: California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Texas, and Washington.
Last Updated: July 2023
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
CEU Value: 0.7 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Instructor: UniversalClass Instructional Team
Syllabus: View Syllabus

Student Testimonials

  • "She was very encouraging." -- Herbert K.
  • "I really enjoyed this course. I have gone to a planetarium space show and saw Hubble in IMAX as a result." -- Gloria B.
  • "Very helpful and it encourages one to expand their knowledge of astronomy" -- Isaura A.
  • "The instructor was very knowledgeable and was always there to help with any questions. Each lesson were clear and easy to follow." -- Bill S.
  • "The audio/visual reading of the content was most helpful." -- William S.
  • "It was the overall learning experience of taking an online class that helped me the most. The instructor was very prompt in answering my questions and clarifying data." -- Shawn K.
  • "The optional videos helped emphasize the main points. The internet links were also very helpful." -- Michael H.
  • "I found all the lessons useful, but I really enjoyed the lessons on The Big Bang, The Sun, The planets, and comets. I have been very happy with my tutor. She has really encouraged me, and always answered any queries I had very promptly! She is an excellent instructor! " -- Gael M.
  • "The instructor was very timely, courteous and professional in responding to submitted assignments, exams and e-mails. She definitely knew the subject matter and did an excellent job in organizing and presenting the material." -- Lewis W.