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Curtin University
Courses Handbook 2015

This handbook contains information on courses and components (majors, minors, streams and units) at Curtin in 2015.
Information for the previous year's courses and units is available at Courses Handbook 2014.

MJRU-PHYSC v.1 Physics Major (BSc Science)


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.


Students choose to study Physics because they are fascinated by fundamental questions about the physical structures and functions in our universe. Physics seeks to explain relationships between the smallest through to the largest structures, utilising the four known Strong, Weak, Electromagnetic and Gravitational forces. Students gain considerable knowledge and skills while conducting physical science experiments and solving real-world problems analytically or computationally, which find application in a wide range of careers. In the first year, students must choose Physical Sciences pre-major. The Physics Major (200 credit points) is supplemented by one of four 200 credit point specialisations, which are aligned with the Departmental research strengths. The four specialisations are: Astrophysics, Environmental physics, Materials Science and Mathematical Physics.


Professional Recognition

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



Major/Stream Entry and Completion Details

The Physics major requires WACE Mathematics 3C/3D and WACE Physics 3A/3B. WACE Mathematics: Specialist 3C/3D and WACE Chemistry 3A/3B are desirable.



Major/Minor/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 0
STRU-ASTPH v.1   Astrophysics Stream (BSc Science) 200.0
  OR  
STRU-MATSC v.1   Materials Science Stream (BSc Science) 200.0
  OR  
STRU-EPHYS v.1   Environmental Physics Stream (BSc Science) 200.0
  OR  
STRU-MTPHY v.1   Mathematical Physics Stream (BSc Science) 200.0
  200.0
Year 2 Semester 1
MATH2009 v.1   Advanced Calculus 4.0 25.0
PHYS2003 v.1   Classical Mechanics and Electromagnetism 5.0 25.0
  50.0
Year 2 Semester 2
PHYS2005 v.1   Electromagnetism 6.0 25.0
MATH2010 v.1   Linear Algebra 4.0 25.0
  50.0
Year 3 Semester 1
PHYS3008 v.1   Quantum Physics 4.0 25.0
PHYS3003 v.1   Physics Project 1 5.0 25.0
  50.0
Year 3 Semester 2
PHYS3002 v.1   Solid State Physics 4.0 25.0
PHYS3004 v.1   Physics Project 2 5.0 25.0
  OR  
PHYS3007 v.1   Nuclear and Particle Physics 7.0 25.0
  50.0




Handbook

The Courses Handbook is the repository of Curtin University ("Curtin") course information. While Curtin makes all reasonable endeavours to keep this handbook up to date, information on this website is subject to change from time to time. Curtin reserves the right to change the: course structure and contents, student assessment, tuition fees and to: withdraw any course or its components which it offers, impose limitations on enrolment in any unit or program, and/or vary arrangements for any course without notification via the website.

For course and enrolment information please visit our Future Students website.