UWA Handbook 2025

Minor Overview

About this minor

Our world is on the cusp of a new era of life-changing technologies based on quantum and space science. Quantum computers, quantum encryption, and the rapidly expanding sphere of private and commercial access to space are prime examples. To harness the potential of these emerging technologies, leaders in all areas will require a fundamental understanding of the science behind these technologies, together with a set of STEM skills that allows them to effectively communicate with scientists and technologists, to make informed judgements, and to envision the future. This minor provides future leaders with that understanding and skill-set. For students taking a minor which shares units with their other unit sets (majors or minors): in order for minors to be recognised on academic and graduation documents, students may only have a maximum of one unit overlapping between their unit sets.

Outcomes

Students are able to (1) discuss quantum science, relativity and space science using correct understanding and terminology; (2) apply critical thinking skills in a range of physical situations; (3) apply problem identification, exploration and solution skills in physical situations; (4) apply appropriate mathematical techniques to the expression and communication of physical concepts; (5) distinguish scientifically-plausible reporting of physics and related technologies from unsound reports.; and (6) explore the challenges and rewards of space exploration and colonisation..

Units