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Honours is an extremely valuable year of study. It comprises advanced 400-level coursework and an individual research project designed to extend students' knowledge and skills. In particular, the Honours programs offered by the Faculty of Science aim to enable students to define and solve problems relating to their speciality and to conduct research in the field.
Honours graduates possess the skills and qualifications needed to progress to a higher degree (e.g. Master of Science or Doctor of Philosophy), or to enter the science and technology industries.
The Faculty of Science offers Honours programs in a wide range of disciplines including:
Anatomy and Cell Biology; Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Botany; Chemistry; Computer Science; Earth Sciences; Engineering; Genetics; Geography and Environmental Studies; History and Philosophy of Science; Information Systems; Mathematics and Statistics; Medical Biology; Medicine*; Microbiology and Immunology; Oral Biology (Dental Science); Otolaryngology; Paediatrics; Pathology; Pharmacology; Physics; Physiology; Psychiatry; Psychology; Surgery*; Surveying; and Zoology. Some combined programs are also available.
* Available at the Royal Melbourne Hospital and the Austin and Repatriation Hospitals
To be eligible to enter Honours you must satisfy both the Faculty of Science entry requirements and the requirements of the department offering the Honours program you wish to undertake. If you are interested in applying for an Honours program it is critical to consider these requirements when planning your undergraduate course.
Admission to the BIS (Hons) requires the completion of a degree specialising in Information Systems, or a related field that is recognised by the Faculty of Science.
Graduates of The University of Melbourne BIS degree need to have obtained an average minimum result of 65% for at least 60 points of 300-level Information Systems subjects.
Applicants who have completed their degree at other institutions must demonstrate that they have achieved an average of 65% for the third year Information Systems subjects, or related subjects, they have studied.
Departments usually require the completion of certain 300-level subjects, and/or a minimum number of 300-level points from a particular department, to be eligible for entry into their Honours program. These requirements are specified in the departmental entries that follow.
Honours usually involves one year of full-time study between February and November. Some departments offer a two year part-time Honours program and some offer mid-year commencement. Further details are provided in the departmental information that follows.
The Bachelor of Science Honours program involves the completion of an Advanced Coursework subject and a Research Project subject. The relative weighting of these subjects varies between departments.
The Advanced Coursework subject may entail 400-level lectures and tutorials, journal clubs, literature reviews, oral presentations, and other departmental activities. The Research Project subject comprises a research project completed under the guidance of an academic who specialises in your area of interest.
Students' academic transcripts will record a separate result for the Advanced Coursework subject and the Research Project subject.
Refer to the departmental entries that follow for more information.
This Honours program involves the completion of four equally weighted Advanced Coursework subjects and a Research Project subject. Student's academic transcripts will record individual results for the Research Project subject and each of the four Advanced Coursework subjects. Refer to the Department of Information Systems entry that follows for further details.
In order to be awarded an Honours qualification, students enrolled in the BSc (Honours) must obtain a minimum mark of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Some departments have other hurdle requirements. These are specified in the departmental information that follows.
In order to be awarded the BIS (Honours) qualification, students must obtain a minimum mark of 65% for the Research Project subject and each of the four advanced coursework subjects. The departmental hurdle requirements must also be satisfied (see Department of Information Systems entry that follows).
The critical dates and penalties (e.g. HECS charges, withdrawn results etc.) that apply to enrolment changes are specified in the General Introduction at the front of this Handbook.
The Faculty of Science does not allow students who have been offered a place in Honours to defer commencement of the course. Students will need to advise the relevant department in writing that they are unable to accept the course offer and reapply for a place in the Honours program at a later stage.
The Faculty of Science does not allow students to take Leave from the Honours program. Students will need to formally discontinue the course and reapply for a place at a later date. Discontinuation of the Honours program requires the submission of a Cancellation of Enrolment Form to the Faculty of Science Office.
The Faculty will consider requests for credit for work undertaken prior to discontinuation on a case by case basis.
Application forms for the Honours program are available from the departments. Departments are responsible for both the selection and enrolment of Honours students. For closing dates, please contact the relevant department.
Please contact the Honours Coordinator in the department/s of your choice for further information. The Honours contacts for each department are specified in the Honours entries that follow.
The Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology offers two distinct Honours programs. These programs are:
These programs are described below.
Students undertake a research project supervised by a member of staff. Project topics are available from the Honours coordinator. Students consult directly with supervisors to ensure suitability of project. Laboratory-based research is the main component of the Honours program, culminating in the submission of a thesis and laboratory notebooks detailing experiments. This program offers the opportunity to acquire modern technical and theoretical skills in cell biology. Students attend research seminars, journal clubs and orally defend their thesis.
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Anatomy and Cell Biology Honours program need to obtain an H3 or better for at least one 300-level Anatomy and Cell Biology subject. This requirement may be waived by the Head of Department.
Associate Professor John Bertram
This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Students enrolled in the Anatomy and Cell Biology Honours program must also attend lectures, workshops and seminars.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Lectures, and workshops in a wide range of biomedical areas such as animal welfare, library resources, experimental design and statistical analysis, writing skills and seminar preparation. Seminars in biomedical research. Students will be assessed by a literature review (20%), a journal article review (20%), statistics assignments (20%) and an oral defence of the thesis (40%).
Students considering enrolling for the Honours program in Anatomy and Cell Biology should discuss their plans with a senior member of staff in the area of their special interest, or with the coordinator. Most of the subject is spent conducting an original, supervised research project. Students will give a talk on the aims and methods of the research project during the year. Assessment will consist of a written report (thesis) submitted at the end of the program (100%).
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
This Honours program is designed for students with a major concentration of undergraduate studies in topographic anatomy. Students undertake a research project in topographic anatomy supervised by a member of staff and have the opportunity to become familiar with advanced research and preparative techniques in anatomy. Students will also have the opportunity to acquire skills in the preparation and display of anatomical specimens and in the development of interactive computer programs in anatomy.
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Topographic Anatomy Honours program need to have completed: 516-201 Histology; 516-202 Human Embryology; 516-204 Anatomy 1 - Back, Thorax and Upper Limb; 516-207 Anatomy 2 - Abdomen, Pelvis and Lower Limb; 516-303 Anatomy of the Head and Neck; 516-304 Functional and Applied Anatomy. These requirements may be waived by the Head of Department.
Associate Professor Chris Briggs
This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Students enrolled in the Topographic Anatomy Honours program must also attend lectures, workshops and seminars.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Lectures, seminars and practical work in preparative techniques. Lectures and seminars in applied anatomical and biomedical research. Lectures and workshops in areas such as development of interactive computer learning programs, library resources, experimental design and statistical analysis, writing skills and seminar preparation. Students will be assessed by workshop reports, assignments and displays of anatomical specimens (70%), a literature review (10%), a journal review (10%) and an exam in statistics (10%).
Students will undertake a supervised research project and give a talk on the aims and methods of the research project during the year. Assessment will consist of a written report (thesis) submitted at the end of the project (80%) and an oral defence of the thesis (20%).
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
A Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Honours program is offered. In 1998 a combined program with the School of Chemistry may also be offered (further details are available from the department). The Bachelor of Science (Honours) program in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is described below.
By the end of the Honours program in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology the student should have:
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Honours program need to have completed a minimum of 50 points of 300-level in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Provision is made for a limited number of exceptions to this entry requirement.
Dr Malcolm McConville
This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
The Advanced Coursework subject accounts for 30% of the assessment. It comprises five subjects of six lectures each. Assessment of these may be by assignment, oral presentation or open book examination. The aim is to encourage a detailed and critical examination of recent advances in selected fields of biochemical and molecular biology research.
The Research Project subject accounts for 70% of the assessment. It comprises a research report (60%) and presentation of a seminar (10%).
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
The Honours program in Botany involves:
The course provides students with skills in original research in plant science, develops capacity for critical thinking and evaluation of information, instills knowledge across wide areas of plant sciences, and enhances communication skills.
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Botany Honours program need to complete 50 or more points of 300-level Botany, or equivalent in a related field (e.g. plant biochemistry). The Head of Department may waive the prerequisites or stipulate additional requirements.
Dr Geoff McFadden
This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. Enrolment in the program is possible between either February and November or July and May.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
The Advanced Coursework subject accounts for 40% of the total assessment as follows:
The Research Project subject comprises:
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
The School of Chemistry offers an Honours program in Chemistry. In 1988 a Combined Chemistry/Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Honours program may be offered (contact the department for details). The Chemistry Honours program is described below:
The Honours program in Chemistry is designed to:
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Chemistry Honours program need to complete 50 or more points of 300-level Chemistry. Applicants need to have completed two of the following core 300-level subjects: 610-310 Physical Chemistry 111A (or 610-311 Physical Chemistry 111B), 610-320 Organic Chemistry 111A (or 610-321 Organic Chemistry 111B) and 610-340 Inorganic Chemistry 111A (or 610-341 Inorganic Chemistry 111B). The qualifications of applicants from other institutions will be considered by the Head of School.
Entry will usually be restricted to students who have satisfied normal Faculty rules.
Associate Professor M. Gill
This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program can be undertaken either between February and November or July and June.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Students enrolled in the Chemistry Honours program must also:
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Students select five lecture subjects. Each of these subjects will be examined by formal written examinations each of 1.5 hours duration held in the University's examination period at the end of the first semester of study. All five lecture subjects are of equal value, each one contributing up to one fifth of the total marks available for the Advanced Coursework subject.
The Research Project subject involves the completion of:
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
The BSc Honours course in Chemical Engineering is designed to:
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in this Honours program need and have completed 50 or more points of 300-level Chemistry which must include two of the following core subjects: 610-310 Physical Chemistry IIIA (or 610-311 Physical Chemistry IIIB), 610-320 Organic Chemistry IIIA (or 610-321 Organic Chemistry IIIB) and 610-340 Inorganic Chemistry IIIA (or 610-341 Inorganic Chemistry IIIB).
The qualifications of student applicants from other institutions will be considered by the Head of the School of Chemistry and the Head of Department of Chemical Engineering.
Associate Professor M. Gill
This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program can be undertaken either between February and November or July and June.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Students enrolled in this Honours program need to attend and satisfactorily complete the course 'Safety in the Laboratory'. Students who don't reach the required standard will have to complete an additional study program and reassessment. A pass in the 'Safety in Laboratory' course is required before students can start the research project and the advanced lecture course. Attendance and satisfactory completion of the course 'Intellectual Property, Its Nature and Use' is also required.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
The Advanced Coursework subject comprises:
The lecture subjects should be selected in consultation with the research supervisor and submitted for approval by the Head of School. Subject availability is dependent on suitable staff and enrolment numbers. Full details for 1998, including an abstract of each course, will be available from the School of Chemistry in November, 1997.
With the exception of 'Intellectual Property, Its Nature and Use', which is delivered in Semester 2, all lecture subjects will be offered in Semester 1.
The assessment for the Advanced Coursework subject involves a 1.5 hour formal written examination for each of the five lecture subjects. The examinations are held in the Univesity's assessment period at the end of Semester 1. The five lecture subjects are of equal value, each one corresponding to one fifth of the overall marks available.
The Research Project subject involves the completion of an original research project, supervised by an academic staff member from the Department of Engineering and the School of Chemistry.
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
The Department of Computer Science offers the following Honours programs:
The Computer Science program is described below.
The Honours program in Computer Science is designed to:
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Computer Science Honours program need to have:
Dr Harald Sondergaard
This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program can be undertaken either between February and November or July and June.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Students enrolled in the Computer Science Honours program must also fulfil the following requirements:
Hurdle requirements for the individual technical subjects will be advised at the commencement of each subject.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
The Advanced Coursework subject comprises:
The Research Project subject comprises a research report (thesis) of up to 20,000 words.
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
The Honours program in Earth Sciences is designed to prepare students for both industry employment and for further research. Emphasis is placed on individual research and professional presentation of results. The program includes up to eleven days of Advanced Coursework, a literature review of your chosen research field and a written and oral report about your research project.
The Honours program offered by the School of Earth Sciences allows specialisation in the following areas: Geology; Geophysics; Meteorology & Environmental Earth Sciences. The departmental entry requirements for these areas differs (see the Admission Requirements section that follows for details).
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering Honours programs in Earth Sciences disciplines must have achieved the following:
Dr Malcolm Wallace
This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. A mid-year intake is dependent on availability of supervisors and would generally begin in July-August and finish in March-April.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Students enrolled in the Earth Sciences Honours program must also attend information sessions, special lectures and relevant presentations in the School's seminar program.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
The Advanced Coursework subject comprises ten to eleven days of specialist short courses chosen to compliment the student's area of research. These advanced courses are chosen from the Victorian Institute of Earth and Planetary Science joint curriculum taught by The University of Melbourne, Monash University and La Trobe University. Thirty courses are usually offered, ranging from two days to one week in duration.
The Research Project subject comprises a scientific research report, a literature review and an oral presentation. Students will devote considerable attention to the writing and presentation of the research. Clear identification of objectives, evaluation of the methodologies adopted and critical appraisal of the results obtained form important aspects of the report.
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
Students enrolled in the Honours program in the Department of Genetics complete a Research Project and Advanced Coursework.The program allows students to acquire skills in analysing and evaluating data, and communicating scientific information in both written and oral presentations.
The Research Project is aims to develop a range of experimental and technical skills, a capacity to set goals and to design and plan experiments. Apart from the help and guidance from their supervisor(s) each student also has a Committee which regularly meets with them and provides additional help and expertise. This Committee is responsible for assessment of the Research Project subject.
The Advanced Coursework comprises sets of lectures in various areas of genetics, journal clubs where published papers are analysed and discussed, and written exercises.
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Genetics Honours program need to complete at least 50 points of 300-level Genetics. The 300-level subjects should include 652-301 Ecological & Evolutionary Genetics, 652-302 Molecular Genetics and 652-304 Genetics Analysis, and subjects selected from 652-303 Developmental and Cellular Genetics, 652-305 Human Genetics and 652-306 Experimental Genetics. However in special circumstances, particularly where relevant 300-level practical subjects in other biological disciplines have been completed, the requirements may be waived by the Head of Department.
Dr J. Camakaris
This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
For information about the weighting of the components of assessment within the Research Project subject and within the Advanced Coursework subject, please contact the Department of Genetics at the start of the Honours program.
The Advanced Coursework subject comprises a critical appraisal of the literature relevant to the Research Project (up to 3000 words) and up to four written exercises based on the lecture topics.
The Research Project subject comprises a research report of 40 pages (excluding figures, tables and appendices), a research talk, and an assessment of research performance.
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
For many students Honours is the most exciting and valuable year at university. Working with individual supervision and following up their special interests enables students to develop their research and writing techniques and apply the knowledge gained in earlier years of undergraduate study to the solution of real problems.
The Honours program in Geography provides an opportunity for students to carry out a small individual Research Project under the supervision of a staff member who is an expert in a related part of the discipline. Examples of Honours theses in recent years include an investigation of Aboriginal trails in East Gippsland; greenhouse gases and the paper industry; South Korean industrial development; paleoecological studies in Northern Tasmania; and the use of rainwater tanks in Melbourne.
During the Honours program, students also complete advanced coursework and a review of the literature relevant to their research area, attend a series of seminars and workshops about the philosophy and scope of the discipline, and give a short presentation about their research findings.
At the end of the program, Honours graduates can either seek employment, well equipped with the skills demanded by today's employers, or they can apply for a scholarship to enable them to proceed to postgraduate study at The University of Melbourne or other universities.
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Geography Honours program need to:
Students who have completed a specialisation in Environmental Science may also be eligible for entry to the Geography Honours program.
Dr Juliet Bird
Honours in Geography and Environmental Studies may be undertaken on either a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered subject to the approval of the Department.
Honours students are strongly advised to commence discussions with their supervisor and to start work on their research projects as early as possible.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Students enrolled in the Geography Honours program must also:
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
The Advanced Coursework subject comprises the following:
The Research Project subject comprises original research on a problem selected in consultation with a supervisor and the Head of the Department, and involves regular meetings with the supervisor.
Students must submit a research report of up to 12,000 words (50% of the total mark for Honours).
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
A detailed information booklet is available from the Department Office [PH: (03) 9344 6339].
Honours study in History and Philosophy of Science provides training at an advanced level in various aspects of the discipline, and prepares students with requisite background to proceed to postgraduate research.
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the History and Philosophy of Science Honours program need to:
Dr Howard Sankey
This particular Honours program may be undertaken on either a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program can be undertaken either between February and November or July and June. Students are advised to commence their supervised Research Projects during the non-instruction periods.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
The Advanced coursework subject requires completion of four semester length Honours level seminars, chosen from the Department's Honours/Postgraduate subject offerings.
The Research Project subject requires completion of a 10,000-12,000 word Honours thesis on an approved topic, carried out under the supervision of a member of the Department.
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
The Honours program in the Department of Information Systems is designed to:
Admission is normally available to students who have undertaken a degree in Information Systems, Computer Science, or a related field, with a 65% average in at least 60 points of 300-level Information Systems or an equivalent level of studies. Prerequisites may be waived by the Head of Department.
For University of Melbourne graduates the standard path to the Information Systems Honours program is via the BIS degree or a combined course with a BIS component. Students enrolled in other degree programs, such as the BSc, who have achieved good results in a substantial number of Information Systems subjects are invited to discuss the possibility of entering the Information Systems Honours program with the Department of Information Systems.
Dr Peter Seddon
This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. A mid-year intake is available to part-time students.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subjects.
Students enrolled in the Information Systems Honours program must also:
The BIS (Honours) program entails the completion of a Research Project subject (50% of the mark available for Honours) and four advanced coursework subjects (each worth 12.5% of the total marks available for Honours).
The marks achieved for the Research Project subject and each advanced coursework subject will be recorded on the student's academic transcript.
The Research Project subject requires the completion of a research project, which usually involves an empirical study. The Research Project should be of a standard suitable for submission to an Australian Conference in Information Systems or to an Australian Information Systems or Computer Science research journal.
As mentioned above, students complete four equally weighted Advanced Coursework subjects. Students will need to devote about 7 hours per week for each subject to complete the required reading. Students will need to allow additional time for the reading required for the Research Project subject.
Two of the four advanced coursework subjects are compulsory. The compulsory subjects are titled 'Research Methods in Information Systems' and 'Themes in Information Systems Research'. As the titles imply, these subjects increase students understanding of current Information Systems literature and effective Information Systems research methodology.
The remaining two advanced coursework subjects are chosen from a range of subjects that may include: 'Information Economics', 'Information Systems Modelling Techniques', 'Managing Organisation Change', 'Business Process Reengineering', 'Distributed Systems', Electronic Commerce and the Internet', 'Management of System and Network Security' and 'Advanced Project Management'.
Information about the Advanced Coursework subjects are available on the web (http://:www.dis.unimelb.edu.au) or from the Department of Information Systems Office.
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
The Department of Mathematics and Statistics offers the following Honours programs:
Information about these programs is provided below.
After completing Honours, graduates wishing to pursue a non-academic career will have the advantage of the experience of project work and directed research not usually provided by a pass degree. Students interested in further academic work will be well placed for entry into postgraduate programs at The University of Melbourne or other world class institutions.
The Honours program in Mathematics and Statistics is designed to train graduates in advanced mathematics and statistics topics and to provide an opportunity for students to participate in research. The program involves completion of an Advanced Coursework subject and a Research Project subject.
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Mathematics and Statistics Honours program need to have attained an H3 or better for at least four 300-level Mathematics/Statistics subjects. Students who do not meet these requirements, but who have achieved very good results in other areas, may be considered for entry to Honours on the recommendation of the Head of the Department of Mathematics and Statistics.
Prospective Honours students should consult the following table for guidelines to selecting their 300-level Mathematics/Statistics subjects. If only four 300-level Mathematics/Statistics subjects are taken, the subject 620-351 Number Theory should not be included and at most one of 620-352 Graph Theory and 620-381 Computational Mathematics should be included. The number of options available at the 400-level is restricted when only four 300-level Mathematics/Statistics subjects have been taken.
To retain the widest possible choice of Honours options, students are recommended to include the following subjects in second year: 620-221 Real & Complex Analysis or 620-252 Analysis, 620-231 Vector Analysis, and at least two of 620-201 Probability, 620-202 Statistics, 620-222 Linear & Abstract Algebra, 620-232 Mathematical Methods, 620-261 Introduction to Operations Research.
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* Prerequisites for specialisation.
For 1997 Handbook prerequisites see the coordinators.
Professor W.D. Neumann and Dr K. Sharpe
This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program can be undertaken either between February and November or July and June.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Honours students should consider themselves a part of the research strength of the Department and view departmental seminars as a method of broadening their knowledge. It is therefore expected that students will attend all research seminars in the broad area of their chosen field. Students are also expected to give an oral presentation about their Research Project.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
All Mathematics and Statistics Honours students must complete six of the subjects listed in the Mathematics and Statistics Honours Guide. The Honours Guide is updated every year and is available from the Department of Mathematics and Statistics Office.
Each subject is one semester in length and comprises twenty-four lectures (usually two per week), some or all of which may be replaced by seminars, guided reading or project work. Full-time students usually undertake four subjects in the first semester and two subjects in the second semester.
Eight steams are offered: Algebra, Analysis, Applied Statistics, Geometry and Topology, Methods and Modelling, Mathematical Physics, Operations Research, Probability and Stochastic Processes. Each stream offers three subjects, two of which will usually be available in Semester 1 and one in Semester 2. Students usually take at least two subjects from two different streams, one of which will normally be in the same stream as that of the research project.
For all subjects, up to forty pages of written assignments and up to three hours of written and/or oral examinations are required. Any student may, with permission, study and be assessed in more than six subjects. In determining the final grade, only the best six subjects will be considered.
A list of the research interests of the Department is outlined in the departmental research report available from the Mathematics and Statistics Office. Intending Honours students should approach individual staff members to discuss possible research projects. Any difficulties in reaching decisions about research topics should be discussed with the Honours coordinator. Preliminary reading should commence in the first month of the program, with the bulk of the project being completed in the second half of the program.
Assessment of the Research Project will consider: clarity and exposition; mathematical insight; coverage of field and references. Honours students will be required to give two seminars before their results are finalised.
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact the Honours Coordinators [PH: (03) 9344 5552].
The Honours program in Applied Statistics is designed to train graduates in applications of statistical methods, with supporting studies in theoretical statistics and stochastic processes. The program also aims to:
The Applied Statistics Honours program is more accessible than the Honours program in Mathematics and Statistics to students who have a restricted mathematics background, but have some experience at 200-level or 300-level in Economics and Commerce, the biological sciences, or social sciences.
The program involves completion of an Advanced Coursework subject and a Research Project subject.
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, entry usually requires an H3 or better for at least four of the following subjects: 619-310 Further Probability, 619-320 Inference, 619-330 Linear Models, 619-340 Further Applied Statistics, 619-355 Stochastic Modelling and Optimisation, 619-360 Time Series and Forecasting (1997 Handbook) or 620-301 Stochastic Modelling, 620-302 Modern Probability, 620-371 Linear Models, 620-372 Inference & Applied Statistics, 620-382 Time Series & Forecasting (1988 Handbook).
Students who do not meet the requirements, but who have achieved very good results in other areas, may be considered for entry on the recommendation of the Coordinator and the Head of the Department of Mathematics and Statistics.
Dr K. Sharpe
This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program can be undertaken either between February and November or July and June.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Honours students should consider themselves a part of the research strength of the Department and view departmental seminars as a method of broadening their knowledge. They are therefore expected to attend all research seminars in the broad area of their chosen field. They are also expected to give an oral presentation about their Research Project.
The Research Project subject consists of a research project under the supervision of a staff member in an area of statistics approved by the subject coordinator. Students are expected to submit a detailed outline of their Research Project by the end of their first semester of Honours level study.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Students select eight of the subjects offered through the Key Centre for Statistical Sciences (KCSS) at La Trobe University, Monash University, RMIT and The University of Melbourne. Each subject comprises a total of twenty-four hours of lectures, presented in one two-hour session per week, during either first or second semester. The subjects are detailed in the KCSS booklet available from the Department of Mathematics and Statistics Office.
Subject selection requires departmental approval. In some cases, approval may be given to substitute subjects of comparable standard from other areas such as Mathematics and Statistics, Economics and Computer Science.
The assessment of the Advanced Coursework subject entails assignments (up to 50 pages) and a 2 two-hour written exam for each of the eight KCSS subjects. Examinations are held at the end of each semester. All KCSS subjects are of equal weight.
This subject comprises a Research Project completed under the supervision of a staff member in an area of statistics approved by the subject coordinator.
The assessment comprises:
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact the Honours Coordinator [PH: (03) 9344 5552].
This Honours program is available only in consultation with the Honours Coordinators of both Mathematics/Statistics and Physics. It is designed to train graduates in advanced Mathematics/Statistics and Physics topics, and to provide an opportunity for students to participate in research.
The program involves completion of an Advanced Coursework subject and a Research Project subject.
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students should plan a course of study that is approved by both the Mathematics/Statistics and Physics Honours coordinators. An H3 average will be required in the subjects that are prerequisites for the Honours level subjects the student plans to study.
Professor W.D. Neumann (Mathematics and Statistics) and Dr L. Hollenberg (Physics).
This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program can be undertaken either between February and November or July and June.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Honours students should consider themselves a part of the research strength of the departments and view departmental seminars as a method of broadening their knowledge. They are therefore expected to attend all research seminars in the broad area of their chosen field. They are also expected to give an oral presentation about their Research Project.
Students are expected to submit a detailed outline of their Research Project by the end of their first semester of Honours study.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Students should establish with the Honours Coordinators the relative weighting of each piece of Mathematics and Statistics or Physics work that is required for this subject.
The project is marked by two examiners appointed by the coordinators, taking into account clarity and exposition, insight demonstrated, coverage of the field and references.
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact the Honours Coordinators [PH: (03) 9344 5552].
This Honours program is available only in consultation with the Honours Coordinators of both Mathematics/Statistics and Computer Science. It is designed to train graduates in advanced Mathematics/Statistics and Computer Science topics, and to provide an opportunity for students to participate in research.
The program involves completion of an Advanced Coursework subject and a Research Project subject.
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students should plan a course of study that is approved by both the Mathematics/Statistics and Computer Science Honours coordinators and have completed the prerequisite subjects with at least an H3 average.
Professor W.D. Neumann (Mathematics and Statistics) and Dr H. Sondergaard (Computer Science)
This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. Enrolment in the program is possible between either February and November or July and June.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Honours students should consider themselves a part of the research strength of the departments and view departmental seminars as a method of broadening their knowledge. They are therefore expected to attend all research seminars in the broad area of their chosen field. They are also expected to give an oral presentation about their Research Project.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Students should establish, with the Honours Coordinators, the relative weighting of each piece of Mathematics and Statistics or Computer Science work that is required for this subject.
Students are expected to submit a detailed outline of their Research Project by the end of their first semester of Honours level study. The Research Project is marked by two examiners appointed by the coordinators, taking into account clarity and exposition, insight demonstrated, coverage of the field and references.
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact the Honours Coordinators [PH: (03) 9344 5552].
The Department of Medical Biology Honours program is designed to:
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Medical Biology Honours program need to obtain high H2A grades or better in 300-level Science subjects relevant to medical research.
Dr Emanuela Handman
This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Students enrolled in the Medical Biology Honours program must also:
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
The Advanced Coursework subject comprises:
The Research Project subject comprises:
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
This Honours program in the Department of Medicine (Austin and Repatriation Medical Centre) is designed to:
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Medicine (Austin & Repatriation Medical Centre) Honours program need to obtain an overall grade of 65% in their 300-level studies.
Dr Leon Bach (Academic), Mrs Sybil Walters (Administrative)
This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject. Students enrolled in the Medicine (Austin & Repatriation Medical Centre) Honours program must also attend 75% of Advanced Coursework seminars/lectures.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
For information about the weighting of components of assessment within the Research project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject, please contact the Department.
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
The Honours program in the Department of Medicine (Royal Melbourne Hospital and Western Hospital) involves Advanced Coursework and a Research Project.
The Advanced Coursework subject consists of a lecture/seminar series held during March, April and May, which aims to give a broad exposure to the various approaches and methods used to address questions of biomedical importance.
The Research Project subject requires students to undertake an original supervised project aimed at gaining first-hand experience in designing, executing and presenting original biomedical research.
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Medicine (Royal Melbourne Hospital and Western Hospital) Honours program need to have completed 300-level Science subjects relevant to biomedical research (e.g. Anatomy, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Genetics, Microbiology and Immunology, Pathology, Pharmacology, Physiology, Zoology).
Associate Professor Marjorie Dunlop, Professor John Hamilton
This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Students enrolled in the Department of Medicine (Royal Melbourne Hospital and Western Hospital) Honours program must also give an oral critique of two journal articles and two presentations about the Research Project at Research Group Meetings, and submit a literature review on the Research Project by the end of July.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
The Advanced Coursework subject is assessed by a 3-hour short answer examination based upon the lecture series. This examination is held in June.
The Research Project subject comprises the following:
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
The Department of Microbiology and Immunology Honours program aims to:
The Advanced Coursework topics are chosen to acquaint students with a broad range of microbiology, to supplement the "in depth" experience of a specialised field which they will gain from their Research Project. As far as possible the subject areas bridge across disciplines so that all students are on an equal footing.
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, applicants for the Microbiology and Immunology Honours program should ideally have completed a significant component of Microbiology and/or Immunology at the 300-level. Equivalent studies in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Genetics and/or Pathology may be acceptable for those undertaking research in areas such as biotechnology, molecular genetics or immunology respectively.
Dr Ian Holmes
This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake.
By arrangement with supervisors, students may start laboratory work in early February.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Information about these subjects is available from the department.
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact
the Department of Microbiology and Immunology [(03) 9344 5689]
The Honours program in the Department of Oral Biology (Dentistry) provides a knowledge of the advances in Oral Biology. The research component offers students the opportunity to use state-of-the-art techniques in protein chemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, process development, mass spectrometry, NMR spectroscopy and molecular modelling.
Students must satisfy the Faculty of Science entry requirements. Information about the departmental entry requirements can be obtained from the department.
Dr Laila Huq
This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
The Advanced Coursework subject comprises:
The Research Project comprises an original research project in one of the four research units within the School of Dental Science. Details of the individual research projects offered for students will be available to prospective students by October 1997. Students will be required to submit a thesis on their research project.
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
Information about the Honours program offered by the Department of Otolaryngology can be obtained from the department [PH: (03) 9665 9585].
The Honours program in the Department of Paediatrics focuses on the Molecular Biology of Human Development and Disease. The program, which consists of advanced lectures and supervised scientific biomedical research, is designed to:
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Paediatrics Honours program need to have successfully completed at least 50 points at 300-level Science subjects relevant to biomedical or biological research chosen from Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Genetics or Microbiology and Immunology.
Acceptance is subject to availability of suitable topics and supervisors, and placement is competitive. Students should discuss their interests with the Honours Coordinator.
Associate Professor John F. Bateman
This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Students enrolled in the Paediatrics Honours program must also:
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
The Advanced Coursework subject comprises advanced lectures and seminars on recent concepts and techniques in the molecular biology of human growth, development and disease.
Students will be assessed by the following methods:
The Research Project subject comprises completion of an original, supervised research project and the submission of a literature review (up to 1500 words) relating to the research project.
Students will be assessed by the following methods:
If you require further information about the Honours program please contact:
The Honours program offered by the Department of Pathology is designed to provide an environment where students can learn the theoretical and practical aspects of undertaking research about a wide range of disease processes at the cellular and molecular level. The Department has a major emphasis in the investigation of neurological disorders including Alzheimer's disease, liver disease, disordered growth and immunopathology. The Department is also affiliated with research institutions including the Austin Research Institute, Peter MacCallum Cancer Institute, Royal Melbourne Hospital, St Vincent's Hospital and Royal Children's Hospital. Bachelor of Science Honours projects administered through the Department are offered at these locations. A wide range of research projects is offered in the areas of regulation of inflammatory processes, immunology, transplantation and cellular and genetic strategies for control and detection of neoplasia.
Research Projects and the Advanced Coursework offered in Pathology enable students to:
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Pathology Honours program need to obtain at least 29.0 points in 300-level Pathology, or at least 50 300-level points in the Biomedical Sciences.
Dr John R. Underwood (Coordinator), Dr Margaret Ayers (Deputy Coordinator)
This particular Honours program may be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. Part-time honours may be offered under special circumstances at the discretion of the head of Department. There is no mid-year intake.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
The Advanced Coursework subject includes two 3-hour Data Assessment Examinations. These examinations are designed to assess the capacity of students to interpret previously unseen research data which is based on information provided in the undergraduate Pathology course, lectures delivered during the Honours year, and data published in high quality scientific journals.
The Research Project subject includes the completion of a novel Research Project under the supervision of academic or research staff within, or affiliated with, the Department of Pathology. An 'introductory' seminar outlining the project hypothesis, aims and methods to be used is presented early in the year. A critical review of literature relevant to the Research Project (3,000-5,000 words) is to be submitted mid-year. The Honours report based on work undertaken in this project is prepared as a thesis and submitted in early November. A 'defence of thesis' seminar is to be delivered to the Department after submission of the thesis.
The Research Project subject assessment comprises the following:
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
The Department of Pharmacology Honours program provides tutorial sessions covering topics in analytical pharmacology, cutting edge research techniques in drug design and molecular pharmacology, and in evaluating mechanisms of drug action at the molecular level through to integrated systems. Students will learn how to communicate their science in oral presentations, abstract and thesis writing and how to evaluate a scientific paper and search data bases. Students undergo extensive research training with their own research project acquiring skills in experimental design, technical expertise, thinking, analysis, and communication. It is a concentrated year for the committed student who wishes to test their capacity and ability in research. Students will have on loan from the Department for the year a notebook computer preloaded with word processing, database and internet software with interface connections.
Applicants must satisfy the Faculty of Science entry requirements, and should ask the Department of Pharmacology Honours Coordinators about the departmental entry requirements.
Professor J. Angus & Dr G. Anderson
This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake.
Students enrolled in Honours usually need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
The Advanced Coursework subject comprises 25 examinable lectures and 15 tutorials in Pharmacology in the first half of the year. There are two theory examinations (25%), a manuscript evaluation examination (10%) and one seminar on a topic of your choice in Pharmacology (5%).
The Research Project comprises two research seminars and a written thesis (total of 60%).
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
The School of Physics offers the following Honours programs:
The Physics program is described below.
The Honours program in Physics is designed to:
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Physics Honours program may do so in one of two ways:
Students entering Honours in either of the above ways may apply to join any of the research groups within the School of Physics. Students are urged to consult the School of Physics for advice regarding their 300-level course plans.
The Head of the School of Physics has the discretion to waive any of the above requirements in special cases.
Dr S.N. Tovey and Dr L.C.L. Hollenberg
This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Students need to complete six of the following Advanced Coursework subjects which must include 640-401 Quantum Mechanics A and 640-402 Quantum Mechanics B:
640-401 Quantum Mechanics A
Coordinator: Dr L.C.L. Hollenberg
Contact: 24 lectures in the first half of Semester 1.
Content: General formulation of quantum mechanics; transformations, symmetries, and operator algebra (including theory of angular momentum, 'second quantisation'); approximation methods of stationary state problems; path-integral formulation; density operator and matrix; interpretation of quantum mechanics.
Assessment: a 6-hour open book examination (70%); assignments (30%).
640-402 Quantum Mechanics B
Coordinator: Professor B.H.J. McKellar
Contact: 24 lectures in the first half of Semester 1.
Content: Relativistic theory of quantum particles; Klein-Gordon and Dirac equations; time-dependent perturbation theory; quantum mechanics of the Electromagnetic field; scattering and collision theory.
Assessment: A 6-hour open book examination (70%); assignments (30%).
640-403 Particle Physics 1 (Experimental and Phenomenological)
Coordinator: Dr G.N. Taylor
Contact: 24 lectures in the second half of Semester 1
Contact: Overview, kinematics, existing and planned facilities, symmetries and conservation laws, intrinsic properties, quark model of hadrons, electron-positron interactions, lepton-nucleon scattering, quark-parton model, weak interactions, unified electroweak theory, quantum chromodynamics.
Assessment: A 6-hour open book examination; problem sheets.
640-404 Quantum Structures
Coordinator: Dr K. Amos
Contact: 24 lectures in the second half of Semester 1.
Content: Models of the structure (energy spectra, quantum number assignments, static properties) of nuclei, atoms, and simple (diatomic) molecules. Fermion based (Shell) models of structure - Two fermion systems; the deuteron, a simple model for Oxygen-18, the Helium atom, two electron atoms and ions. Many fermion systems; Central field approximations for atoms and nuclei, Thomas-Fermi and Hartee-Fock conditions, the Shell model. Two centre problems: Simple molecules, molecular ions. Collective motion and models of structure: The Born-Oppenheimer model of rotation and vibration in diatomic molecules, nuclear vibration and rotations, odd mass nuclei (strong coupling). Fermion models in deformed fields - The electronic structure of diatomic molecules, the Nilsson model for deformed, odd mass nuclei.
Assessment: An 8-hour open book examination
640-405 Diffraction and Structure of Materials
Coordinator: Dr Z. Barnea and Dr A.E.C. Spargo
Contact: 24 lectures in the second half of Semester 1.
Content: Conventional X-ray diffraction, neutron diffraction, elastic and inelastic, electron diffraction, dynamical theory, imaging theory and electron microscopy.
Assessment: A written paper or project.
640-406 Statistical Mechanics
Coordinator: Dr T.D. Kieu
Contact; 24 lectures in the second half of Semester 1 and some tutorial sessions.
Content: Review of thermodynamics, information theory, classical and quantum statistical mechanics, properties of partition functions, simple exactly solvable interacting models, mean field approximation, cluster expansions and other approximation methods, phase transition and critical phenomena, scaling and universality, introduction to real-space and momentum-space renormalisation groups, response function and fluctuations, theory of Monte Carlo simulations, Monte Carlo renormalisation group, introduction to non-equilibrium statistical mechanics.
Assessment: Assignments throughout the course (35%) and an examination (65%).
640-407 Quantum Field Theory
Coordinator: Dr G.C. Joshi
Contact: 24 lectures in the second half of Semester 1.
Content: Classical fields, field quantisation, C.P.T. symmetry, covariant Perturbation theory, renormalisation, gauge field theories.
Assessment: An examination and problems.
640-408 Quantum Optics and Electronics
Coordinator: Dr A. Roberts and Dr R. Scholten
Contact: 24 lectures in the first half of Semester 2
Content: Amplification of light, lasers, scattering, nonlinear optics, quantisation of EM field, coherence, non-classical light, atoms in quantum light fields.
Assessment: A four-hour open book examination; assignments.
640-409 Particle Physics 11 (Theory)
Coordinator: Dr G.C. Joshi
Contact: 24 lectures in the first half of Semester 2
Content: Graphs and symmetries, the quark model, gauge fields, quantum chromodynamics, the standard model, supersymmetry, grand unified theories, composite models, elementary string theory and conformal symmetry.
Assessment: A 6-hour examination; problem sheets.
640-410 Scattering Theory
Coordinator: Dr L.J. Allen
Contact: 24 lectures in the first half of the Semester 2
Content: Physical picture of scattering; central field scattering; internal equation for scattering; nonlocal potentials; approximate methods; inverse scattering problems and applications; appropriate extensions for application to problems in atomic, condensed matter and nuclear systems.
Assessment: An 8-hour open book examination and/or written assignments.
640-411 Solid State Physics
Coordinator: Dr L.A. Bursill
Contact; 24 lectures in the first half of semester 2
Content: Crystal structure and symmetry groups for some advanced materials (including ceramic superconductors, semiconductors ferroelectric oxides, carbon nanotubes, etc.). Phenomena and theory of superconducting and ferroelectric phase transitions, including discussion of electronic energy bands, crystal vibrations and anharmonic effects. Electronic phase transitions in some aperiodic and nanoscale materials.
Assessment: An 8-hour examination; problem sets.
640-413 General Relativity
Coordinator: Professor G.I. Opat
Contact: 24 lectures in the first half of Semester 2
Content: Action principles, electromagnetic and other classical fields, Equivalence principle, general relativity, solutions of the field equations, test particle motion, astrophysics, cosmology, gravitational waves.
Assessment: A 6-hour open book examination; assignments.
640-414 Stars and Compact Objects
Coordinator: Dr M. Bailes
Contact: 24 lectures in the second half of Semester 1
Content: The structure and evolution of neutron stars and pulsars, the physics of black holes, the structure and evolution of main sequence stars, the structure of white dwarfs and red giants. The formation and distribution of these objects.
Assessment: a 6-hour end-of-semester written examination; problem sheets.
640-415 Extragalactic Astrophysics and Cosmology
Coordinator: Dr R. Webster
Contact: 24 lectures in the first half of the Semester 2
Content: The astrophysics of different extragalactic objects: quasars, radio galaxies and normal galaxies. The standard cosmological model, galaxy formation, background radiations, gravitational lensing.
Assessment: A 6-hour end-of-semester written examination; problem sheets.
640-416 Experimental Methods in Condensed Matter Physics
Coordinator: Dr S. Prawer
Contact: 24 lectures in the first half of Semester 2. Some lectures may be replaced by supervised practical tutorials.
Content: The techniques to be covered will include: Ion beam analysis: Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy, proton induced X-ray analysis. Electron based analysis: Auger spectroscopy, electron energy loss spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscopies. Optical analysis: absorption, luminescence, Raman spectroscopy. Scanning tunnelling and atomic force microscopies. Electrical characterisation of materials.
Assessment: An 8-hour examination and assignments.
The Research Project subject comprises an original, supervised research project (experimental and/or theoretical) in one of the School's current fields: pure and applied nuclear physics (including photonuclear reactions, proton microprobe and microanalysis), gravitation, astrophysics, optics (with light, x-rays, neutrons, atoms), particle physics, atomic physics, solid state physics (including high-resolution electron microscopy and physics of materials).
The assessment is based on a written report on the research done during the year (main text of the order of 20 pages). Students will also prepare and deliver a 15 minute talk to the School of their work shortly after the report has been submitted.
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
The Honours program in the Department of Physiology is designed to:
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Physiology Honours program need to have completed at least 50 points of 300-level Physiology, or an equivalent level of studies.
Acceptance is subject to availability of suitable topics and supervisors, and placement is competitive. Applicants should contact the designated Honours Coordinator to determine the available projects, and consult with supervisors of projects of interest. Prerequisites may be waived by the Head of Department.
Associate Professor David A. Williams
This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Honours students are also required to complete a literature review for the Research Project subject.
For the Advanced Coursework subject, students are required to attend Departmental lectures and seminars and deliver a talk summarising the major findings of the physiology/literature review (12 minutes plus 6 minutes of discussion)
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
The Advanced Coursework subject comprises the following:
The assessed items for the Research Project subject include:
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Psychology Honours program must satisfy the departmental entry requirements.
For information about the departmental entry requirement and the Psychology Honours program, please refer to 512-496 Research Project - Psychology and 512-497 Advanced Coursework - Psychology.
The Honours program in the Department of Zoology is designed to:
The program comprises an original, supervised research project, and a series of lectures and workshops covering design of experiments in biology, statistical analysis of biological data, and communication skills in biology with emphasis on scientific writing and oral presentations.
In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Zoology Honours program need to complete at least 50 points of 300-level Zoology, or an equivalent level of studies. Prerequisites may be waived by the Head of Department. Admission is also subject to the availability of suitable topics and supervisors, and placement is competitive.
Dr D.L. Macmillan and Dr G.M. Coulson
This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. Enrolment in the program is possible either between February and November or July and April.
Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.
Honours students are also required to submit a literature review in the field of the student's research project, and a grant proposal-seeking notional funding of part or all of the student's research project (up to 2000 words each).
The Research Project subject may involve the use of animals in experiments. In such cases the experiments are an essential part of the course and exemption is not possible.
Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
The Advanced coursework subject comprises the following:
The Zoology Research Project is assessed by a written report (thesis), not exceeding 10,000 words, submitted at the end of the program
If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:
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