Units / PHS4021
PHS4021 · Physics coursework B
2026 Handbook12 credit pointsLevel 4School of Physics and Astronomy
Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTCOverview
You will undertake studies in three selected topics in Physics and related fields, which provide fundamental instruction in key aspects of contemporary physics. These develop your expertise in theoretical and computational physics, data analysis and the skills required to effectively communicate your findings using contemporary communication tools. The three topics are chosen from: • Statistical mechanics • Condensed matter physics • Quantum field theory • Quantum information theory • General relativity & cosmology NB: Subject to approval by the Chief Examiner, one of the topics in PHS4021 may be replaced by a topic from ASP4021.
Areas of study: Master of Science in Physics
Offerings
| Campus | Teaching period | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Clayton | First semester | Teaching activities are on-campus (ON-CAMPUS) |
Assessment
The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.
| # | Assessment | Type | Weight | Hurdle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tests | Quiz / Test | 20% | — |
| 2 | Assignments | Written | 30% | — |
| 3 | Final assessment task | Examination | 50% | — |
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Requisites
The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.
Learning outcomes
- Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental aspects of experimental physics, theoretical and computational physics, and related disciplines.
- Develop skills in theoretical and computational physics that are fundamental to the study of contemporary physics.
- Synthesise and interpret knowledge in theoretical and experimental physics.
- Make effective use of information and communication technology for the collection and analysis of data, the solution to problems in theoretical and experimental physics, and the written/oral presentation of work relevant to the area of study.
Workload
24 hours per week • Three topics each with 3-hours of lectures/workshops/tutorials; • Three topics each with 1-hours of consultation and online discussions involving peers and staff, and • 12 hours of independent study per week.
Ask about PHS4021
Answered from the Handbook fields above — no AI, no guessing. Every answer links back to the source.
Community discussions about PHS4021
CommunityStudent experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.