Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit is taken over two or three semesters and parts 1 to 4 must be completed to fulfil the requirements of the unit. Students can commence the unit in either semester one or semester two.

The 24-point unit consists of a research project and dissertation which, with the research proposal unit (PHYS5001, 6 points) and research presentation unit (PHYS5002, 6 points), comprises 50 per cent of the Master of Physics with the specialisation in Theoretical Physics.

The dissertation is based on an individual research project on a topic undertaken within one of the research groups in, or affiliated with, the Department of Physics. The main objective of the project and dissertation is to develop the students' independent research and analytical abilities, and their written and oral communication skills that have application not only to their specific field of research but also to a wide range of employment opportunities in government and industry. The research project also exposes the students to the working environment, methodology and techniques used by physicists in the student's chosen specialisation. It is expected that the project normally involves original research leading to the establishment of new knowledge in the field.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) develop skills in document preparation, data presentation and referencing; (2) independently apply research methods, including ethical considerations, to a specific research problem or topic; and (3) demonstrate high-level written communication skills.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) research work assessed by all supervisors and (2) dissertation graded and ranked by a panel of report readers. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Supplementary assessment is not available in this unit.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Professor Li Ju
Unit rules
Prerequisites
enrolment in
the Master of Physics
Contact hours
a total load of 150 hours
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.