Master of Science in Physical Sciences

The item you are viewing is Discontinued

Suspended or closed

This course is being phased out. No new enrolments will be permitted from 2020.

Students currently enrolled in this course will be able to complete their studies.
Students who are undertaking the course on a part-time basis are strongly recommended to complete the core subjects as soon as possible.

Overview

This course covers the research areas of space physics, x-ray science and surface and materials science. We aim to equip you with experience and competence in areas of physics where experimental work is vastly different, being either laboratory- or environment/field-based. During first year, you will complete eight core subjects. During … For more content click the Read more button below. In the Honours stream, you will undertake a 60 credit-point Master's research thesis (approximately 18 000 words) along with a further 60 credit points of coursework subjects as a part of second year. Graduation from the Honours stream fulfils the requirements for entry into a PhD in a relevant discipline area at La Trobe University. You may be awarded the Postgraduate Diploma in Science after successfully completing first year, but only if you decide not to proceed to second year of the Master's course. The qualification awarded on graduation is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) as Level 9.

During first year, you will complete eight core subjects. During second year, you will be required to complete another four core subjects, engage in a practical statistical consulting project and write a minor thesis. If you achieve an average of 65 per cent in all subjects in first year, and demonstrate an aptitude for research, you may be invited to join the Honours stream.

In the Honours stream, you will undertake a 60 credit-point Master's research thesis (approximately 18 000 words) along with a further 60 credit points of coursework subjects as a part of second year. Graduation from the Honours stream fulfils the requirements for entry into a PhD in a relevant discipline area at La Trobe University.

You may be awarded the Postgraduate Diploma in Science after successfully completing first year, but only if you decide not to proceed to second year of the Master's course.

The qualification awarded on graduation is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) as Level 9.

Portfolio

Office of the Provost

School

Course coordinator

Grant van Riessen

Location(s)

Melbourne (Bundoora)

CRICOS code

028640D

Course instance contact

Grant van Riessen

Course duration (full time)

2 years

Study level

Postgraduate

AQF level

Level 9 - Masters Degree

Available only as an exit award

Study options

Domestic

International onshore

Completion requirements

To qualify for the award of Master of Science in Physical Sciences, students must complete 240 credit points consisting of: 105 core credit points 120 core-choice credit points and 15 elective credit points

Course structure
240 credit points

Level one120 credit points

Core60 credit points

Core choice60 credit points

Level two120 credit points

Core choice120 credit points

Students to select a stream from the list below.

Coursework120 credit points

Core45 credit points

Core choice60 credit points

Electives15 credit points

Research120 credit points

Recommended electives

Course intended learning outcomes

On successful completion you will be able to:

Produce grammatically correct written scientific reports that present coherent evidence-based explanations to communicate to peer, scientific and non-scientific audiences. The explanations will demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of a complex body of knowledge in physics

Critically analyse and reflect on scientific issues and present scientific findings to peers and scientists

Analyse and evaluate numerical data, perform advanced mathematical calculations and create graphic representations to interpret scientific data for professional practice consistent with established theories

Develop autonomy and expert judgement by locating, interrogating and evaluating relevant scientific information using the skills and ideas of a practicing physicist

Develop rational and rigorous arguments to interrogate assumptions, synthesise scientific information, formulate hypotheses, draw unbiased conclusions and defend scientific ideas consistent with the responsibilities of an expert physicist

Analyse using a systematic approach to reasoning and conceptualising scientific ideas to solve constructed and real world scientific and technical problems

Demonstrate effective teamwork through collaborations, negotiations, conflict resolutions, self-assessment and communication skills to complete laboratory tasks consistent with the adaptability and autonomy expected of a practicing physicist

Demonstrate academic integrity and scientific rigour in conducting and evaluating scientific research, and managing self in professional practice

Apply specialised theories and concepts of physics to solve complex problems related to the physical world

Career outcomes

This course will greatly enhance your research and employment opportunities. Graduates are prepared for work in diverse areas involving technology and research, and in the commercial and administrative sectors.

Professional recognition

Graduates of the Master of Science in Physical Sciences may apply for membership with the Australian Institute of Physics (AIP). Membership may be subject to additional or ongoing requirements beyond completion of the degree. Please contact the relevant professional body for details.

Handbook