At the University of the Free State astrophysics can be taken at graduate level leading to a Ph.D. in physics, with astrophysics as the field of specialization. At honours level, students can take subjects like astrophysics, general relativity and cosmology, with their other basic physics honours subjects. Postgraduate courses in astronomy are also offered by Rand Afrikaans University and the University of the Western Cape. It is also possible to study for a research degree under the supervision of one of the astronomers at the South African Astronomical Observatory or the Hartebeesthoek Radio Astronomy Observatory. Bursaries are available from the National Research Foundation on a competitive basis.
Astronomers typically scan lists of openings worldwide.
Employment outside the field of astronomy for holders of astronomy degrees can be extremely varied. Training in astronomy and astrophysics at major universities typically includes much physics and mathematics, experience in computing, the use and construction of mathematical models of reality, and often the development of advanced scientific instrumentation. All of these skills are valuable in many fields outside astronomy. Alternatives to a salaried post are rather limited. Some astronomers have become free-lance astronomy or general science writers, especially overseas, and a few have written successful science fiction.