Level 3 (3rd Year)

We'll describe the minimum required to gain a major, but don't let that stop you taking more physics or astrophysics units! You can always aim for an extended major (for details see the Physics Area of Study in the Handbook) or simply take more units because you are interested in them - a really good reason to choose units.

For a major in physics you must pass at least three of the following Level 3 physics units:

Semester 1

• PHS3031 - Foundations of contemporary physics *
• PHS3051 - Photon physics
• PHS3131 - Theoretical physics

Semester 2

• PHS3042 - Fundamentals of condensed matter physics
• PHS3062 - Fundamentals of particle physics
• PHS3142 - Theoretical physics II

* PHS3031 is highly recommended - it is a prerequisite for PHS3062 and PHS3142, and it is one of the requirements for progression to Honours.

To complete a major in physics you need to pass a total of four units beyond the two core second year units (PHS2061 and PHS2062). The fourth unit may come from those listed above, or from the following list:

• PHS2081 - Atomic nuclear and condensed matter physics If you have already taken this unit in second year, then it can count as the "fourth unit" for your major. If you haven't yet taken this unit, you might select this unit in the first semester of third year.
• PHS3350 - Physics & astronomy research project 1 If you have already completed a physics research project (by passing the project unit PHS2035 in second year) then it can count as the "fourth unit" for your major. If you haven't, then you might choose PHS3350. This unit provides you with the opportunity to experience research in physics - though you will need to have done well in your related studies so far (distinction average) and you will need to get permission from the Level 3 coordinator. See the section on Undergraduate Research Opportunities for more information.
• A Level 3 astrophysics unit (a unit with code ASP3xxx).

• MTE3545 - Functional materials and devices or MTE3547 - Materials characterisation and modelling If you are studying materials science, selecting one of these two MTE units (covering topics closely aligned to your studies in physics) offers a natural way for you to complete a physics major.
• A relevant Level 3 mathematics unit (a unit with code MTH3xxx) - with permission from the Level 3 Coordinator.