313679 v.2 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/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 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 314655 | v.1 | Mathematical Physics Stream (BSc Science) | 200.0 | ||
| OR | |||||
| 314656 | v.1 | Astrophysics Stream (BSc Science) | 200.0 | ||
| OR | |||||
| 314657 | v.1 | Environmental Physics Stream (BSc Science) | 200.0 | ||
| OR | |||||
| 314658 | v.1 | Materials Science Stream (BSc Science) | 200.0 | ||
| 200.0 | |||||
| Year 2 Semester 1 | |||||
| 8127 | v.6 | Advanced Calculus 201 | 4.0 | 25.0 | |
| 8142 | v.5 | Classical Mechanics and Electromagnetism 201 | 5.0 | 25.0 | |
| 50.0 | |||||
| Year 2 Semester 2 | |||||
| 8717 | v.7 | Electromagnetism 202 | 6.0 | 25.0 | |
| 302390 | v.1 * | Mathematical Methods 204 | 4.0 | 12.5 | |
| 312508 | v.1 | Waves and Oscillations 202 | 6.0 | 12.5 | |
| 50.0 | |||||
| Year 3 Semester 1 | |||||
| 12991 | v.2 | Physics Project 301 | 5.0 | 25.0 | |
| 9765 | v.5 | Quantum Physics 301 | 4.0 | 25.0 | |
| 50.0 | |||||
| Year 3 Semester 2 | |||||
| 11592 | v.3 | Solid State Physics 302 | 2.0 | 25.0 | |
| 312509 | v.2 | Nuclear and Particle Physics 302 | 8.0 | 25.0 | |
| OR | |||||
| 12992 | v.3 | Physics Project 302 | 5.0 | 25.0 | |
| 50.0 | |||||
* Students who wish to choose the Mathematical Physics Stream must select an elective unit to the value of 12.5 credits instead of Mathematical Methods 204.
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