305377 v.3 Bachelor of Science (Nanotechnology)

Introduction

This course is designed for prospective students intending to become professional scientists and technologists in the emerging field of nanotechnology. Nanotechnology encompasses the science and technology of understanding and constructing the "very small" and has application in the development of very small scale ultra-efficient processes and machines to ultimately change the way we live. It is expected to have a major impact on almost all areas of science, technology and society over the next century. Nanotechnology is effectively already here in areas such as nanochemistry, microelectronics, nanophysical methods of analysis, and specialist materials research and development. In the future nanotechnology will also play a major role in a wide range of medical diagnosis and treatments, and yet to be invented industrial processes involving nanorobots and machines. Students considering a career in applied physics and/or chemistry will find the course and prospective employment possibilities of particular interest.

Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites

TEE Chemistry, Physics and Calculus or Applicable Mathematics.

Specific Requirements

The STAT is not accepted for entry to this course.

Note

If Introductory Calculus is not studied in Year 11, a bridging unit is required. Able students with high aggregates or other evidence of academic achievement who do not meet formal entry requirements may still be considered. Enquiries should be directed to the Head of Department.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Applications for recognition of prior learning are assessed on an individual basis.

Duration and Availability

The course is four years full-time or equivalent part-time study. Two intakes are offered each year, in March and August. Prospective students should note that places may not always be available for the August intake.

Course Organisation

The first four semesters of this course focus on the development of fundamentals in chemistry, physics, and mathematics. At the same time, a range of options in physics, chemistry, engineering, computational techniques and nanotechnology will enable students to tailor the course to suit their specific interests. The final two semesters include advanced studies in nanotechnology together with a nanotechnology research project supervised by research staff from the Departments of Applied Chemistry and/or Applied Physics. If a student is not performing at a level that would normally enable entry into an Honours program in their fourth year, they will be required to enrol in the third year project units Chemistry Project 390 (37.5 cr) and/or Physics Project 301(25 cr) or Physics Project 302 (37.5 cr). Any remaining credits are to be taken in approved Options units.

Professional Recognition

The Royal Australian Chemical Institute and the Australian Institute of Physics both recognise the course as fulfilling the academic requirements for graduate membership of the respective societies. On obtaining the necessary experience graduates will be admitted to full membership of either institute.

Career Opportunities

Nanotechnology graduates will be employed in industry or government organisations, for example, as materials characterisation scientists, as research scientist in micro analytical facilities, and as medical physicists in hospitals.

Additional Course Expenses

Students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks, readers and other vital study materials.

Special Note

From 2005 students enrolled in this four-year program, on completion, may be eligible for an award with Honours based on their academic performance. Pre-2005 students, on completion and having met currently agreed standards, will be eligible to be awarded their degree with Honours, otherwise students will be eligible to receive the previously approved intermediate award or may choose to apply to switch to the new course. Existing students should consult with the Course Coordinator to determine their completion requirements.

Availability

The information displayed above refers to study periods and locations where the course is available for first time entry. Students are normally only offered or admitted to a course once.

*The course itself may not be available either solely internally or externally but individual units may be offered in either or both of those modes. Prospective students should contact the Course Coordinator for further information.

^Course and associated units are offered in this mode permitting International Onshore student enrolment.

#Course and associated units are offered in this online only mode and DO NOT permit International Onshore student enrolment.

Curtin University of Technology
Current as of: January 28, 2005
CRICOS provider code 00301J