Available in 2024
Course code

PHYS4110

Units

20 units

Level

4000 level

Course handbook

Description

The Physics Honours Program is equally comprised of two components, coursework and a research project that strengthens a student’s understanding of modern physics.In PHYS4110 Coursework I and PHYS4120 Coursework II, students will complete 6 modules of coursework content. These modules will cover a variety of topics such as Electromagnetism, Classical & Modern Optics, Quantum Mechanics, and Solid State Physics that relate to student’s interest areas and thesis topic. The coursework provides students with contemporary research methodologies that lead into the thesis component of the Honours Program.


Availability2024 Course Timetables

Callaghan

  • Semester 1 - 2024
  • Semester 2 - 2024

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. An understanding at an advanced level of the principles and techniques underlying many of the important areas of contemporary physics

2. Competence in researching the scientific literature

3. A significantly enhanced understanding of how to apply their knowledge of physics to real physical systems independently and collaboratively

4. The capacity to devise and employ effective and creative strategies in problem solving, in conducting research, and in analysing and modelling the behaviour of physical systems.

5. Mastery of a range of experimental, theoretical and/or computational techniques

6. An enhanced ability to effectively communicate their knowledge of physics to a wide variety of audiences

7. Awareness of appropriate professional conduct and practice


Content

PHYS4110 is a 20 unit course in the BSc(Phys)(Honours) program which incorporates coursework covered by a selection of the topics listed below:

Core Topics (3 topics from):

  • Quantum Mechanics
  • Solid State Physics
  • Electromagnetism
  • Classicial and Modern Optics

Elective Topics (3 topics from)*

  • Advanced Optical Fibres
  • Application of Numerical Techniques in Physics
  • Digital Signal Processing
  • Magnetohydrodynamics & Astrophysics
  • Medical Physics
  • Organic Electronics
  • Space/Ionospheric Physics
  • Surface Physics

Research Methodology

  1. Occupational Health and Safety requirements associated with research projects
  2. Project management skills
  3. Experimental design and data analysis
  4. Thesis writing skills
  5. Seminar presentation skills
  6. Professional conduct and practice

* This list of optional topics may vary from year to year. The fourth core topic can also be taken as an elective topic

Students may replace one physics elective topic with an appropriate mathematics or chemistry topic subject to approval by the Physics Honours Coordinator.


Requisite

This course is only available to students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science (Honours) program.


Assumed knowledge

A major in Physics with a Credit grade average in at least 40 units of 3000 level physics courses.


Assessment items

Written Assignment: Written Assessment 1


Contact hours

Semester 1 - 2024 - Callaghan

Integrated Learning Session-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 50 hour(s) per term
  • Each content topic runs for 15 hours per semester. Actual contact hours will depend on the number of topics chosen per semester.The research methodology topic will be run by flexible delivery equivalent to 10 hours of contact per semester.

Semester 2 - 2024 - Callaghan

Integrated Learning Session-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 50 hour(s) per term
  • Each content topic runs for 15 hours per semester. Actual contact hours will depend on the number of topics chosen per semester.The research methodology topic will be run by flexible delivery equivalent to 10 hours of contact per semester.

Course outline