The astronomy and astrophysics honours specialisation is intended for students who have a foundational knowledge of the field and are interested in taking specialist courses and undertaking an independent research project under the direction of a supervisor. The honours specialisation is usually taken full time for two consecutive semesters and includes research training, in-depth analysis of current concepts in the field as well as a substantial research project culminating in the production of a thesis. Honours is a solid foundation in the basics of research, and can be an entry to careers in astrophysics, physics, applied mathematics, statistics, science communication, computer science, or a pathway to a PhD in Astronomy and Astrophysics.
Learning Outcomes
- Plan and engage in an independent and sustained critical investigation of a chosen research topic to generate new knowledge in an area of astronomy and astrophysics.
- Systematically evaluate relevant theory and concepts in astronomy and astrophysics, relate these to appropriate methodologies and evidence and draw appropriate conclusions.
- Demonstrate capacity for astronomy and astrophysics reasoning through analyzing, proving and explaining concepts from the chosen research area.
- Communicate and justify complex concepts and results clearly and effectively to a variety of audiences.
Other Information
Student can apply to enrol in 6000 or 8000 coded Astronomy and Astrophysics courses, or 6000 or 8000 coded courses from cognate disciplines with the approval of the convener.
Relevant Degrees
- Bachelor of Biotechnology (Honours) (HBIOT)
- Bachelor of Environmental Studies (Honours) (HENVS)
- Bachelor of Genetics (Honours) (HGENE)
- Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (Sustainability) (Honours) (HISSU)
- Bachelor of Medical Science (Honours) (HMDSA)
- Bachelor of Medical Science (Honours) (HMEDS)
- Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) - Science (APHSC)
- Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) / Bachelor of Science (Honours) - ANU as home institution (APNSC)
- Bachelor of Science (Advanced) (Honours) (ASCAD)
- Bachelor of Science (Forest Sciences) (Honours) (HSFOR)
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) (HSC)
- Bachelor of Science (Psychology) (Honours) (HSPSY)
- Bachelor of Science (Resource and Environmental Management) (Honours) (HSREM)
Admission Requirements
Satisfaction of the admission requirements described in the relevant honours plan, with at least a specialisation or equivalent in astronomy and astrophysics or any of the cognate disciplines.
Cognate disciplines
Astronomy and Astrophysics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics, Mathematical Applications and Computations, Physics, Physics of the Earth, Theoretical Physics.
Requirements
The Astronomy and Astrophysics Honours specialisation requires the completion of 48 units, which must consist of:
24 units of ASTR4005 Astronomy and Astrophysics IV Honours Research Project
24 units from completion of courses from the following list:
ASTR4002 Black Holes and Cosmology
ASTR4003 High Energy Astrophysics
ASTR4004 Astronomical Computing
ASTR4006 Galaxies
ASTR4007 From Stars to Galaxies
ASTR4012 Astrophysical Gas Dynamics
ASTR4015 Stellar Atmospheres and Spectroscopy
ASTR4017 Diffuse Matter in the Universe
HONS4600 Final Honours Grade will be used to calculate the Class of Honours and the Mark. It will be calculated using the formula: Σ (mark x units) / 48, giving NCN and WN a nominal mark of zero.
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