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Curtin University
Courses Handbook 2014

This handbook contains information for courses and units at Curtin in 2014.
Information for the previous year's courses and units is available at Courses Handbook 2013.

313945 v.1 Physics Double Degree Major (S&E)


Major/Stream Overview

This major/stream is part of a larger course. Information is specific to the major/stream, please refer to the course for more information.


This Physics double degree Major will interest students who are fascinated by fundamental questions about the physical structure and functions of the universe, what it consists of and how it works. Physics attempts to answer questions about things such as the intricate structure of matter and the nature of radiation and how they interact with each other. It also seeks to explain relationships between the smallest and largest structures, between forces, and energy in the Universe. Students will gain a large number of practical skills such as planning and conducting physical science experiments, real world computation and quantitative problem solving, and scientific communication, which find application in a wide range of careers.


Professional Recognition

Graduates of this course may be eligible for membership of the Australian Institute of Physics.



Major/Stream Entry and Completion Details

Level 3A/3B in Physics and Mathematics 3C/3D or Mathematics:Specialist 3C/3D.



Major/Stream Organisation

Major/Stream Learning Outcomes

A graduate of this course can:

1. apply physics, mathematics, and computing knowledge, principles and concepts

2. apply critical, creative and reflective thinking to physics problems

3. access, evaluate and synthesise information relating to physics

4. effectively communicate physics ideas and concepts

5. use a range of technologies to collect and analyse data with appropriate regard to uncertainties

6. work as responsible, self-directed and motivated learners

7. apply internationally accepted scientific conventions, standards and protocols

8. demonstrate respect for cultural diversity in professional life

9. work safely, effectively and ethically in a multi faceted scientific environment


Course Structure Hrs/Wk Credit
Year 1 Semester 1
302804 v.3   Physics 101 5.0 25.0
10926 v.5   Mathematics 103 4.0 25.0
  OR  
7062 v.6   Mathematics 101 5.0 25.0
  50.0
Year 1 Semester 2
7492 v.5   Mathematics 104 5.0 25.0
305415 v.3   Physics 102 5.0 25.0
  50.0
Year 2 Semester 1
310984 v.2   Scientific Computing 101 4.0 25.0
8142 v.5   Classical Mechanics and Electromagnetism 201 5.0 25.0
8127 v.6   Advanced Calculus 201 4.0 25.0
  75.0
Year 2 Semester 2
312508 v.1   Waves and Oscillations 202 6.0 12.5
8717 v.7   Electromagnetism 202 6.0 25.0
302390 v.1   Mathematical Methods 204 4.0 12.5
307590 v.2   Statistical Data Analysis 101 3.0 12.5
  SELECT ELECTIVE UNITS TO THE TOTAL VALUE OF:   12.5
  75.0
Year 3 Semester 1
9765 v.5   Quantum Physics 301 4.0 25.0
  SELECT OPTIONAL UNITS TO THE TOTAL VALUE OF:   25.0
  50.0
Year 3 Semester 2
11592 v.3   Solid State Physics 302 2.0 25.0
  SELECT OPTIONAL UNITS TO THE TOTAL VALUE OF:   25.0
  50.0
Year 4 Semester 1
12991 v.2   Physics Project 301 5.0 25.0
  SELECT OPTIONAL UNITS TO THE TOTAL VALUE OF:   25.0
  50.0
Year 4 Semester 2
312509 v.2   Nuclear and Particle Physics 302 8.0 25.0
  SELECT OPTIONAL UNITS TO THE TOTAL VALUE OF:   25.0
  50.0
Optional Units to Select from in Year 3 Semester 1 Hrs/Wk Credit
311695 v.1 **   Observational Techniques in Astronomy 201 4.0 25.0
312387 v.1 *   Environmental Impact Assessment 301 4.0 25.0
314660 v.2   Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics 201 4.0 25.0
Optional Units to Select from in Year 3 Semester 2 Hrs/Wk Credit
305424 v.2   X-Ray Diffraction and Electron Microscopy 301 4.0 25.0
310266 v.3 **   Physics of Stars and Galaxies 202 3.5 25.0
314659 v.2 *   Physics of Environmental Monitoring 202 4.0 25.0
8128 v.6 #   Linear Algebra 202 4.0 25.0
Optional Units to Select from in Year 4 Semester 1 Hrs/Wk Credit
10098 v.2 #   Mathematical Methods 301 4.0 25.0
310267 v.2 **   Relativistic Astrophysics and Cosmology 301 4.0 25.0
311829 v.1 *   Scientific Data Analysis 301 3.0 25.0
Optional Units to Select from in Year 4 Semester 2 Hrs/Wk Credit
302300 v.2 #   Applied Mathematical Modelling 302 4.0 25.0
310268 v.2 **   Exploring the Radio Universe 302 4.0 25.0
8462 v.5 *   Scientific Data Acquisition 202 3.0 25.0

#    ^ For students wishing to complete a Mathematical Physics specialisation

*    # For students wishing to complete an Environmental Physics specialisation

**    * For students wishing to complete an Astrophysics specialisation





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