University of Sydney Handbooks - 2018 Archive

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Table S Electives - Science Descriptions

Errata
Item Errata Date
1. PSYC1001 Psychology 1001 June Intensive session is no longer available. 20/2/2018
2. ENVX1002 Introduction to Statistical Methods: Prohibitions have changed. They now read: N: ENVX1001, MATH1005, MATH1905, MATH1015, MATH1115, DATA1001, BUSS1020, STAT1021 and EMCT1010 20/2/2018
3. MATH1021 Calculus Of One Variable: Semester 2 session has been added. 20/2/2018
4. HPSC1000 Bioethics: Session availability has changed. June Intensive has been added, July Intensive is no longer available. 20/2/2018
5. BCMB2001 Biochemistry and Molecular Biology: Prerequisites have changed. They now read:
P: 6cp of (BIOL1XX7 or MBLG1XXX) and 6cp of (CHEM1XX1 or CHEM1903)
8/3/2018
6. BCMB2901 Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (Advanced) Prerequisites have changed. They now read: P A mark of at least 70 from (BIOL1XX7 or MBLG1XX1) and (CHEM1XX1 or CHEM1903) 8/3/2018
7. BCMB2002 Proteins in Cells Prerequisites have changed. They now read:
P 6cp of (BIOL1XX7 or MBLG1XXX) and 6cp of (CHEM1XX1 or CHEM1903)
8/3/2018
8. BCMB2902 Proteins in Cells (Advanced) Prerequisites have changed. They now read: P A mark of at least 70 from (BIOL1XX7 or MBLG1XX1) and (CHEM1XX1 or CHEM1903) 8/3/2018

Table S Electives - Science

Units of study

Chemistry
1000-level units of study
CHEM1011 Fundamentals of Chemistry 1A

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Toby Hudson Session: Semester 1 Classes: 3x1-hr lectures; 1x1-hr tutorial per week; 1x3-hr practical per week for 9 weeks Prohibitions: CHEM1001 or CHEM1101 or CHEM1901 or CHEM1903 or CHEM1109 or CHEM1111 or CHEM1911 or CHEM1991 Assumed knowledge: There is no assumed knowledge of chemistry for this unit of study but students who have not completed HSC Chemistry (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Chemistry Bridging Course (offered in February). Assessment: quizzes, attendance, laboratory log book, exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Students who have not completed HSC Chemistry (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Chemistry Bridging Course (offered in February, and online year-round, see http://sydney.edu.au/science/chemistry/studying-chemistry/bridging-course.shtml).
Chemistry describes how and why things happen from a molecular perspective. Chemistry underpins all aspects of the natural and physical world, and provides the basis for new technologies and advances in the life, medical and physical sciences, engineering, and industrial processes. This unit of study will equip you with the fundamental knowledge and skills in chemistry for broad application. You will learn about atomic theory, structure and bonding, equilibrium, processes occurring in solutions, and the functional groups of molecules. You will develop experimental design, conduct and analysis skills in chemistry through experiments that ask and answer questions about the chemical nature and processes occurring around you. Through inquiry, observation and measurement, you will better understand natural and physical world and will be able to apply this understanding to real-world problems and solutions. This unit of study is directed toward students whose chemical background is weak (or non-existent). Compared to the mainstream Chemistry 1A, the theory component of this unit begins with more fundamental concepts, and does not cover, or goes into less detail about some topics. Progression to intermediate chemistry from this unit and Fundamentals of Chemistry 1B requires completion of an online supplementary course.
Textbooks
Recommended textbook: Blackman, Bottle, Schmid, Mocerino and Wille,Chemistry, 3rd Edition, 2015 (John Wiley) ISBN: 978-0-7303-1105-8 (paperback) or 978-0-7303-2492-8 (e-text)
CHEM1012 Fundamentals of Chemistry 1B

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Toby Hudson Session: Semester 2 Classes: 3x1-hr lectures; 1x1-hr tutorial per week; 1x3-hr practical per week for 9 weeks Prerequisites: CHEM1XX1 Prohibitions: CHEM1002 or CHEM1102 or CHEM1902 or CHEM1904 or CHEM1108 or CHEM1112 or CHEM1912 or CHEM1992 Assessment: quizzes, assignments, laboratory attendance and log book, exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Chemistry transforms the way we live. It provides the basis for understanding biological, geological and atmospheric processes, how medicines work, the properties of materials and substances, how beer is brewed, and for obtaining forensic evidence. This unit of study builds upon your prior knowledge of chemistry to further develop your knowledge and skills in chemistry for broad application. You will learn about organic chemistry reactions, structural determination, nitrogen chemistry, industrial processes, kinetics, electrochemistry, thermochemistry, phase behaviour, solubility equilibrium and chemistry of metals. You will further develop experimental design, conduct and analysis skills in chemistry through experiments that ask and answer questions about the chemical nature and processes occurring around you. Through enquiry, observation and measurement, you will better understand natural and physical world and will be able to apply this understanding to real-world problems and solutions. Fundamentals of Chemistry 1B is built on a satisfactory prior knowledge of Fundamentals of Chemistry 1A. Compared to the mainstream Chemistry 1B, the theory component of this unit begins with more fundamental concepts, and does not cover, or goes into less detail about some topics. Progression to intermediate chemistry from this unit requires completion of an online supplementary course.
Textbooks
Recommended textbook: Blackman, Bottle, Schmid, Mocerino and Wille,Chemistry, 3rd Edition, 2015 (John Wiley) ISBN: 978-0-7303-1105-8 (paperback) or 978-0-7303-2492-8 (e-text)
CHEM1111 Chemistry 1A

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Toby Hudson Session: Semester 1,Semester 2,Summer Main Classes: 3x1-hr lectures; 1x1-hr tutorial per week; 1x3-hr practical per week for 9 weeks Prohibitions: CHEM1001 or CHEM1101 or CHEM1901 or CHEM1903 or CHEM1109 or CHEM1011 or CHEM1911 or CHEM1991 Assumed knowledge: Students who have not completed HSC Chemistry (or equivalent) and HSC Mathematics (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Chemistry and Mathematics Bridging Courses (offered in February) Assessment: quizzes, attendance, laboratory log book, exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Students who have not completed secondary school chemistry are strongly advised to instead complete Fundamentals of Chemistry 1A in the first semester of the calendar year (unless you require 12 credit points of Chemistry and are commencing in semester 2). You should also take the Chemistry Bridging Course in advance (offered in February, and online year-round http://sydney.edu.au/science/chemistry/studying-chemistry/bridging-course.shtml).
Chemistry describes how and why things happen from a molecular perspective. Chemistry underpins all aspects of the natural and physical world, and provides the basis for new technologies and advances in the life, medical and physical sciences, engineering, and industrial processes. This unit of study will further develop your knowledge and skills in chemistry for application to life and medical sciences, engineering, and further study in chemistry. You will learn about nuclear and radiation chemistry, wave theory, atomic orbitals, spectroscopy, bonding, enthalpy and entropy, equilibrium, processes occurring in solutions, and the functional groups in carbon chemistry. You will develop experimental design, conduct and analysis skills in chemistry through experiments that ask and answer questions like how do dyes work, how do we desalinate water, how do we measure the acid content in foods, how do we get the blue in a blueprint, and how do we extract natural products from plants? Through inquiry, observation and measurement, you will understand the 'why' and the 'how' of the natural and physical world and will be able to apply this understanding to real-world problems and solutions. This unit of study is directed toward students with a satisfactory prior knowledge of the HSC chemistry course.
Textbooks
Recommended textbook: Blackman, Bottle, Schmid, Mocerino and Wille,Chemistry, 3rd Edition, 2015 (John Wiley) ISBN: 978-0-7303-1105-8 (paperback) or 978-0-7303-2492-8 (e-text)
CHEM1112 Chemistry 1B

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Toby Hudson Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 1x3-hr lecture; 1-hr tutorial per week; 1x3-hr practical per week for 9 weeks Prerequisites: CHEM1111 or CHEM1911 or CHEM1101 or CHEM1901 or (75 or above in CHEM1011 or CHEM1001) Prohibitions: CHEM1002 or CHEM1102 or CHEM1902 or CHEM1904 or CHEM1108 or CHEM1012 or CHEM1912 or CHEM1992 Assessment: quizzes, assignments, laboratory attendance and log book, exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Chemistry transforms the way we live. It provides the basis for understanding biological, geological and atmospheric processes, how medicines work, the properties of materials and substances, how beer is brewed, and for obtaining forensic evidence. This unit of study builds upon your prior knowledge of chemistry to further develop your knowledge and skills in chemistry for application to life and medical sciences, engineering, industrial processing, and further study in chemistry. You will learn about organic chemistry reactions, structural determination, nitrogen chemistry, industrial processes, kinetics, electrochemistry, thermochemistry, phase behaviours, solubility equilibrium and chemistry of metals. You will further develop experimental design, conduct and analysis skills in chemistry through experiments that ask and answer questions like how do we develop lotions that don't burn us, how do we measure UV absorption by sunscreens, how can we measure and alter soil pH, how are sticky things made, and how do we determine the concentration of vitamin C in juice? Through enquiry, observation and measurement, you will understand the 'why' and the 'how' of the natural and physical world and will be able to apply this understanding to real-world problems and solutions. Chemistry 1B is built on a satisfactory prior knowledge of Chemistry 1A.
Textbooks
Recommended textbook: Blackman, Bottle, Schmid, Mocerino and Wille,Chemistry, 3rd Edition, 2015 (John Wiley) ISBN: 978-0-7303-1105-8 (paperback) or 978-0-7303-2492-8 (e-text)
CHEM1911 Chemistry 1A (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Toby Hudson Session: Semester 1 Classes: 3x1-hr lectures and 1x1-hr tutorial per week; 1x3-hr practical per week for 9 weeks Prohibitions: CHEM1001 or CHEM1101 or CHEM1901 or CHEM1903 or CHEM1109 or CHEM1011 or CHEM1111 or CHEM1991 Assumed knowledge: 80 or above in HSC Chemistry or equivalent Assessment: quizzes, attendance, laboratory log book, exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Chemistry describes how and why things happen from a molecular perspective. Chemistry underpins all aspects of the natural and physical world, and provides the basis for new technologies and advances in sciences, engineering, and industrial processes. This unit of study will further develop your knowledge and skills in chemistry for broad application, including further study in chemistry. You will learn about nuclear and radiation chemistry, wave theory, atomic orbitals, spectroscopy, bonding, enthalpy and entropy, equilibrium, processes occurring in solutions, and the functional groups of molecules. You will develop experimental design, conduct and analysis skills in chemistry through experiments that ask and answer questions about the chemical nature and processes occurring around you. Through inquiry, observation and measurement, you will better understand natural and physical world and will be able to apply this understanding to real-world problems and solutions. This unit of study is directed toward students with a good secondary performance both overall and in chemistry or science. Students in this category are expected to do this unit rather than Chemistry 1A. Compared to the mainstream Chemistry 1A, the theory component of this unit provides a higher level of academic rigour and makes broader connections between topics.
Textbooks
Recommended textbook: Blackman, Bottle, Schmid, Mocerino and Wille,Chemistry, 3rd Edition, 2015 (John Wiley) ISBN: 978-0-7303-1105-8 (paperback) or 978-0-7303-2492-8 (e-text)
CHEM1912 Chemistry 1B (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Toby Hudson Session: Semester 2 Classes: 3x1-hr lectures and 1x1-hr tutorial per week; 1x3-hr practical per week for 9 weeks Prerequisites: CHEM1911 or CHEM1991 or CHEM1901 or CHEM1903 or (75 or above in CHEM1111 or CHEM1101) or (90 or above in HSC Chemistry or equivalent) Prohibitions: CHEM1002 or CHEM1102 or CHEM1902 or CHEM1904 or CHEM1108 or CHEM1012 or CHEM1112 or CHEM1992 Assessment: quizzes, assignments, laboratory attendance and log book, exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Students who commence in semester 2 are strongly advised that you would be better served by taking the mainstream level units in sequence, Chemistry 1A before Chemistry 1B, rather than the Advanced units in the opposite order.
Chemistry transforms the way we live. It provides the basis for understanding biological, geological and atmospheric processes, how medicines work, the properties of materials and substances, how beer is brewed, and for obtaining forensic evidence. This unit of study builds upon your prior knowledge of chemistry to further develop your knowledge and skills in chemistry for broad application, including further study in chemistry. You will learn about organic chemistry reactions, structural determination, nitrogen chemistry, industrial processes, kinetics, electrochemistry, thermochemistry, phase behaviour, solubility equilibrium and chemistry of metals. You will further develop experimental design, conduct and analysis skills in chemistry through experiments that ask and answer questions about the chemical nature and processes occurring around you. Through enquiry, observation and measurement, you will better understand natural and physical world and will be able to apply this understanding to real-world problems and solutions. Chemistry 1B (Advanced) is built on a satisfactory prior knowledge of Chemistry 1A (Advanced). Compared to the mainstream Chemistry 1B, the theory component of this unit provides a higher level of academic rigour and makes broader connections between topics.
Textbooks
Recommended textbook: Blackman, Bottle, Schmid, Mocerino and Wille,Chemistry, 3rd Edition, 2015 (John Wiley) ISBN: 978-0-7303-1105-8 (paperback) or 978-0-7303-2492-8 (e-text)
2000-level units of study
CHEM2401 Molecular Reactivity and Spectroscopy

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Siegbert Schmid Session: Semester 1 Classes: Three 1-hour lectures per week, seven 1-hour tutorials per semester, eight 4-hour practicals per semester Prerequisites: (CHEM1XX1 or CHEM1903) and (CHEM1XX2 or CHEM1904) Prohibitions: CHEM2001 or CHEM2101 or CHEM2301 or CHEM2311 or CHEM2502 or CHEM2901 or CHEM2903 or CHEM2911 or CHEM2915 Assumed knowledge: 6cp MATH1XXX Assessment: Quizzes, lab reports and final examination (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: This is a required chemistry unit of study for students intending to major in chemistry.
This is one of the two core units of study for students considering majoring in chemistry, and for students of other disciplines who wish to acquire a good general background in chemistry. The unit considers fundamental questions of molecular structure, chemical reactivity, and molecular spectroscopy: What are chemical reactions and what makes them happen? How can we follow and understand them? How can we exploit them to make useful molecules? This course includes the organic and medicinal chemistry of aromatic and carbonyl compounds, organic reaction mechanisms, molecular spectroscopy, quantum chemistry, and molecular orbital theory.
Textbooks
See http://sydney.edu.au/science/chemistry/studying-chemistry/undergraduate/intermediate-chemistry.shtml
CHEM2402 Chemical Structure and Stability

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Siegbert Schmid Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three 1-hour lectures per week, seven 1-hour tutorials per semester, eight 4-hour practicals per semester Prerequisites: (CHEM1XX1 or CHEM1903) and (CHEM1XX2 or CHEM1904) Prohibitions: CHEM2202 or CHEM2302 or CHEM2902 or CHEM2912 or CHEM2916 Assumed knowledge: 6cp MATH1XXX Assessment: Quizzes, lab reports and final examination (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: This is a required chemistry unit of study for students intending to major in chemistry.
This is the second core unit of study for students considering majoring in chemistry, and for students seeking a good general background in chemistry. The unit continues the consideration of molecular structure and chemical reactivity. Topics include the structure and bonding of inorganic compounds, the properties of metal complexes, materials chemistry and nanotechnology, thermodynamics and kinetics.
Textbooks
See http://sydney.edu.au/science/chemistry/studying-chemistry/undergraduate/intermediate-chemistry.shtml
CHEM2403 Chemistry of Biological Molecules

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Siegbert Schmid Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three 1-hour lectures per week, six 1-hour tutorials per semester, five 4-hour practical sessions per semester Prerequisites: (CHEM1XX1 or CHEM1903) and (CHEM1XX2 or CHEM1904) Prohibitions: CHEM2001 or CHEM2101 or CHEM2301 or CHEM2311 or CHEM2502 or CHEM2901 or CHEM2903 or CHEM2913 Assumed knowledge: 6cp MATH1XXX Assessment: Quizzes, lab reports and final examination (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: To enrol in Senior Chemistry, students are required to have completed (CHEM2401 or CHEM2911 or CHEM2915) and (CHEM2402 or CHEM2912 or CHEM2916).
Life is chemistry, and this unit of study examines the key chemical processes that underlie all living systems. Lectures cover the chemistry of carbohydrates, lipids and DNA, the mechanisms of organic and biochemical reactions that occur in biological systems, chemical analysis of biological systems, the inorganic chemistry of metalloproteins, biomineralisation, biopolymers and biocolloids, and the application of spectroscopic techniques to biological systems. The practical course includes the chemical characterisation of biopolymers, experimental investigations of iron binding proteins, organic and inorganic chemical analysis, and the characterisation of anti-inflammatory drugs.
Textbooks
See http://sydney.edu.au/science/chemistry/studying-chemistry/undergraduate/intermediate-chemistry.shtml
CHEM2404 Forensic and Environmental Chemistry

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Siegbert Schmid Session: Semester 1 Classes: Three 1-hour lectures per week, six 1-hour tutorials and five 4-hour practical sessions per semester Prerequisites: (CHEM1XX1 or CHEM1903) and (CHEM1XX2 or CHEM1904) Prohibitions: AGCH3033 Assumed knowledge: 6cp MATH1XXX Assessment: Quizzes, lab reports and final examination (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: To enrol in Senior Chemistry students are required to have completed (CHEM2401 or CHEM2911 or CHEM2915) and (CHEM2402 or CHEM2912 or CHEM2916).
The identification of chemical species and quantitative determination of how much of each species is present are the essential first steps in solving all chemical puzzles. In this course students learn analytical techniques and chemical problem solving in the context of forensic and environmental chemistry. The lectures on environmental chemistry cover atmospheric chemistry (including air pollution, global warming and ozone depletion), and water/soil chemistry (including bio-geochemical cycling, chemical speciation, catalysis and green chemistry). The forensic component of the course examines the gathering and analysis of evidence, using a variety of chemical techniques, and the development of specialised forensic techniques in the analysis of trace evidence. Students will also study forensic analyses of inorganic, organic and biological materials (dust, soil, inks, paints, documents, etc) in police, customs and insurance investigations and learn how a wide range of techniques are used to examine forensic evidence.
Textbooks
See http://sydney.edu.au/science/chemistry/studying-chemistry/undergraduate/intermediate-chemistry.shtml
CHEM2911 Molecular Reactivity and Spectroscopy Adv

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Siegbert Schmid Session: Semester 1 Classes: Three 1-hour lectures per week, seven 1-hour tutorials per semester and eight 4-hour practicals per semester Prerequisites: (A mark of 65 or above in CHEM1111 or CHEM1101 or CHEM1911 or CHEM1901 or CHEM1991 or CHEM1903) and (a mark of 65 or above in CHEM1112 or CHEM1102 or CHEM1912 or CHEM1902 or CHEM1992 or CHEM1904) Prohibitions: CHEM2001 or CHEM2101 or CHEM2301 or CHEM2311 or CHEM2312 or CHEM2401 or CHEM2502 or CHEM2901 or CHEM2903 or CHEM2915 Assumed knowledge: 6cp MATH1XXX Assessment: Quizzes, lab reports and final examination (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
The syllabus for this unit is the same as that of CHEM2401 together with special Advanced material presented in the practical program. The lectures cover fundamental consideration of molecular electronic structure and its role in molecular reactivity and spectroscopy and include applications of spectroscopy, the organic chemistry of aromatic systems, molecular orbital theory and quantum chemistry. For more details of the lecture syllabus, please read the entry for CHEM2401.
Textbooks
See http://sydney.edu.au/science/chemistry/studying-chemistry/undergraduate/intermediate-chemistry.shtml
CHEM2912 Chemical Structure and Stability (Adv)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Siegbert Schmid Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three 1-hour lectures per week, seven 1-hour tutorials per semester, eight 4-hour practicals per semester Prerequisites: (A mark of 65 or above in CHEM1111 or CHEM1101 or CHEM1911 or CHEM1901 or CHEM1991 or CHEM1903) and (a mark of 65 or above in CHEM1112 or CHEM1102 or CHEM1912 or CHEM1902 or CHEM1992 or CHEM1904) Prohibitions: CHEM2202 or CHEM2302 or CHEM2402 or CHEM2902 or CHEM2916 Assumed knowledge: 6cp MATH1XXX Assessment: Quizzes, lab reports and final examination (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
The syllabus for this unit is the same as that of CHEM2402 together with special Advanced material presented in the practical program. The lectures include the properties of inorganic compounds and complexes, statistical thermodynamics, the chemistry of carbonyls, nucleophilic organometallic reagents, and synthetic methods. For more details of the lecture syllabus, please read the entry for CHEM2402.
Textbooks
See http://sydney.edu.au/science/chemistry/studying-chemistry/undergraduate/intermediate-chemistry.shtml
Geosciences
1000-level units of study
GEOS1001 Earth, Environment and Society

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Bill Pritchard, Dr Sabin Zahirovic, Dr Eleanor Bruce, A/Prof Tom Bishop Session: Semester 1 Classes: One 2 hour lecture and one 2 hour practical per week. Prohibitions: GEOS1901 or GEOG1001 or GEOG1002 or GEOL1001 or GEOL1002 or GEOL1902 or ENSY1001 Assessment: Exam (40%), 2000 word essay (25%), practical reports (15%), presentation (20%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This is the gateway unit of study for Human Geography, Physical Geography, Environmental Studies and Geology. Its objective is to introduce the big questions relating to the origins and current state of the planet: climate change, environment, landscape formation, and the growth of the human population. During the semester you will be introduced to knowledge, theories and debates about how the world's physical and human systems operate. The first module investigates the evolution of the planet through geological time, with a focus on major Earth systems such as plate tectonics and mantle convection and their interaction with the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere and human civilisations. The second module presents Earth as an evolving and dynamic planet, investigating global environmental change, addressing climate variability and human impacts on the natural environment and the rate at which these changes occur and how they have the potential to dramatically affect the way we live. Finally, the third module, focuses on human-induced challenges to Earth's future. This part of the unit critically analyses the relationships between people and their environments, with central consideration to debates on population change, resource use and the policy contexts of climate change mitigation and adaptation.
GEOS1002 Introductory Geography

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Kurt Iveson, Dr Dan Penny Session: Semester 2 Classes: One 2 hour lecture per week and eight 2 hour practicals during semester. Prohibitions: GEOS1902 or GEOG1001 or GEOG1002 Assessment: One 2 hour exam, one 2000 word essay, two online quizzes (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit of study provides a geographical perspective on the ways in which people interact with each other and the physical world, focussing on the processes that generate spatial variation and difference. Students will consider the development and characteristics of natural environments across the globe, and will explore how these environments both constrain, and are influenced by, humans. In the process, they will learn about the biophysical, political, economic, cultural and urban geographies that shape contemporary global society. Each of these themes will be discussed with reference to key examples, in order to understand the ways in which the various processes (both physical and human) interact. The unit of study is designed to attract and interest students who wish to pursue geography as a major within their undergraduate degree, but also has relevance to students who wish to learn how to think geographically about the contemporary world.
GEOS1003 Introduction to Geology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Tom Hubble Session: Semester 2,Summer Main Classes: Two 1 hour lectures and one 3 hour practical per week Prohibitions: GEOS1903 or GEOL1002 or GEOL1902 or GEOL1501 Assessment: One 2 hour exam, quizzes, tests, practical reports, field report (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
The aim of this unit of study is to examine the chemical and physical processes involved in mineral formation, the interior of the Earth, surface features, sedimentary environments, volcanoes, and metamorphism. Lectures and laboratory sessions on mountain building processes and the formation of mineral deposits will lead to an understanding of the forces controlling the geology of our planet. Processes such as weathering, erosion and nature of sedimentary environments are related to the origin of the Australian landscape. In addition to laboratory classes there is a one-day excursion to the western Blue Mountains and Lithgow to examine geological objects in their setting.
Textbooks
The recommended text is is Christiansen, E. H., and Hamblin, W. K. (2015). Dynamic earth: An introduction to physical geology. Burlington, MA: Jones and Bartlett Learning.
GEOS1901 Earth, Environment and Society Advanced

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Bill Pritchard, Dr Sabin Zahirovic, Dr Eleanor Bruce, A/Prof Tom Bishop Session: Semester 1 Classes: One 2 hour lecture and one 2 hour practical per week. Prohibitions: GEOS1001 or GEOG1001 or GEOG1002 or GEOL1001 or GEOL1002 or GEOL1902 or ENSY1001 Assumed knowledge: (ATAR 90 or above) or equivalent Assessment: Exam (40%), 2000 word essay (25%), practical reports (15%), presentation (20%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Advanced students will complete the same core lecture material as for GEOS1001, but will be required to carry out more challenging practical assignments.
GEOS1902 Introductory Geography (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Kurt Iveson, Dr Dan Penny Session: Semester 2 Classes: One 2 hour lecture per week and 8 2 hour practicals per semester, plus independent group work. Prohibitions: GEOS1002 or GEOG1001 or GEOG1002 Assumed knowledge: (ATAR 90 or above) or equivalent Assessment: One 2 hour exam, one 1000 word essay, two online quizzes, one practical report (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Advanced students will complete the same core lecture material as for GEOS1002, but will be required to carry out more challenging practical assignments.
GEOS1903 Introduction to Geology (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Tom Hubble Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1 hour lectures and one 3 hour practical per week, field classes. Prohibitions: GEOS1003 or GEOL1002 or GEOL1902 Assumed knowledge: (ATAR 90 or above) or equivalent Assessment: One 2 hour exam, tests, quizzes, practical reports, field report (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This unit has the same objectives as GEOS1003 and is suitable for students who wish to pursue aspects of the subject in greater depth. Entry is restricted and selection is made from the applicants on the basis of their ATAR or UAI and/or their university performance at the time of enrolment. Students that elect to take this unit will participate in alternatives to some aspects of the standard unit and will be required to pursue independent work to meet unit objectives. This unit may be taken as part of the BSc (Advanced).
Textbooks
The recommended text is Christiansen, E. H., and Hamblin, W. K. (2015). Dynamic earth: An introduction to physical geology. Burlington, MA: Jones and Bartlett Learning.
2000-level units of study
GEOS2111 Natural Hazards: a GIS Approach

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Dale Dominey-Howes Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two hour lecture; two hour practical/tute/lab Prerequisites: 6 credit points of Junior Geosciences units Prohibitions: GEOS2911 Assessment: One 2 hour exam, three reports (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Staff will organize a non-compulsory half-day weekend field excursion to explore local Sydney hazards for interested students.
The unit provides an essential framework for understanding the environmental response to short- and long-term geologic, oceanic and atmospheric processes. This Unit of Study introduces students to a variety of natural phenomena that affect society with impact levels ranging from nuisance to disastrous. The discussion of each hazard focuses on: (1) the process mechanics, (2) hazards and risk, and (3) methods for mitigation. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are used by scientists, planners, policy-makers and the insurance industry alike to address many issues relating to natural hazards. This Unit of Study will introduce students to the major concepts relating to GIS and provide practical experience in the application of GIS techniques to hazard mapping, risk assessment and mitigation.
Textbooks
No prescribed textbook
GEOS2114 Volcanoes, Hot Rocks and Minerals

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Derek Wyman, A/Prof Patrice Rey Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1 hour lectures and one 3 hour practical per week. Prerequisites: A minimum of one unit of study from the following (GEOG1001, GEOL1001, GEOL1002, GEOS1003, GEOS1903, ENVI1002, GEOL1902, GEOL1501), and 24 credit points of Junior Science units of study. Prohibitions: GEOL2111 or GEOL2911 or GEOS2914 Assessment: One 2 hour exam, practical reports, field trip report, group presentation (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: An optional volcano field study trip to New Zealand's North Island in February is available for up to 20 students. Extra costs apply. Contact with the School in the preceding November or December is advisable to secure a place on the trip.
This unit of study relates plate tectonics to a) volcanoes and magma systems that create them; b) the formation of precious metal and gemstone ores; and c) an understanding of how Earth's materials (minerals, rocks, rock formations, lithospheric plates etc.) respond to stresses and the forces that deform them. Methods of analysis involve studies at the microscopic scale (performed on thin sections) and the mesoscopic scale performed on hand specimens and outcrops. The unit includes a day field trip to study an extinct volcano in NSW. Practical work includes independent study of igneous systems, rocks and minerals employing both microscope-based techniques and computer modelling.
GEOS2115 Oceans, Coasts and Climate Change

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Dietmar Müller, A/Prof Jody Webster, A.Prof Ana Vila-Concejo Session: Intensive July,Semester 1 Classes: Twenty-five 1 hour lectures, three 1 hour workshops, eight 2 hour practical classes. Prerequisites: 24 credit points from Junior Units of Study Prohibitions: GEOS2915 or MARS2006 Assumed knowledge: GEOG1001 or GEOL1001 or GEOL1002 or GEOS1003 or GEOS1903 or ENVI1002 or GEOL1902 or GEOL1501 Assessment: Lab reports (60%), one 2-hour exam (40%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit of study introduces core concepts about how the formation of ocean basins and their influence on climate govern the development of coasts and continental margins. These concepts provide a framework for understanding the geographic variation of coasts, continental shelves and sediment accumulations in the deep ocean. Ocean-basin evolution is explained in terms of movements within the Earth's interior and how these movements determine the geometry of ocean basins, and their alpine counterparts, which interact with the global circulation of the ocean and atmosphere. This interaction plays a key role in marine sedimentation and controls the environmental conditions responsible for the development of coral reefs and other ecosystems. The Unit of Study systematically outlines how these factors have played out to produce, by gradual change, the coasts we see today, as well as the less familiar deposits hidden beneath the sea and coastal lands. The Unit thereby outlines how knowledge of responses to climate change in the past allow us to predict environmental responses to accelerated climate change occurring now and in the future due to the industrial greenhouse effect, but places these responses into perspective against the geological record. Overall therefore, the Unit aims to provide familiarity with fundamental phenomena central to the study of marine geoscience and environmental impacts, introduced through process-oriented explanations. The Unit of Study is structured around GIS-based practical sessions and problem-based project work, for which lectures provide the theoretical background.
Textbooks
On line reading material provided via Fisher Library
GEOS2116 Earth Surface Processes

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Dan Penny Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2x1-hr lectures; 1x3-hr practical (lab/computer) sessions each week Prohibitions: GEOS2916 or GEOG2321 Assessment: practical and field assignments, final exam Practical field work: 3-5 day field trip Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
The surface of the planet on which you live is the product of a balance between tectonic forces and numerous agents of erosion. The landscapes in which you live and work, and from which you draw resources, are therefore the legacy of many processes operating synchronously over long time periods. It is also true that Earth's landscapes are dynamic, and constantly changing around you in response to climate, tectonics and patterns of life. The sustainable management of landscapes is strongly dependent upon an awareness of those processes and the ways that they constrain human-environment interactions. In Earth Surface Processes, you will learn how landscapes are produced, and what this means for contemporary land use. Lectures by experts in physical geography, geology, soil science and environmental science will introduce you to the planetary and regional-scale controls on landforms and landscape dynamics, and the nature and distribution of major Australian landscape types. Focussed around 'hands on' field and laboratory-based tasks, students will gain essential practical, analytical and interpretive skills in the analysis of landscapes and earth surface processes that shape them. This is a unit for anyone wanting to better understand the planet on which they live.
Textbooks
Allen, P.A., 2009. Earth surface processes. John Wiley and Sons. Scitech, 551.3 72 Sharma, V.K., 2010. Introduction to process geomorphology. CRC Press. Scitech, 551.41 113
GEOS2121 Environmental and Resource Management

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Sophie Webber Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two hour lecture; one hour tutorial per week Prerequisites: 6 credit points of first year Geosciences units or ECOP1001 or ECOP1002 Prohibitions: GEOS2921 Assessment: One exam, one essay, one report, tutorial attendance (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
We are in the midst of an unprecedented global ecological and climatological crisis, and consequently need to transform our social, political and economic systems. This crisis ¿ its causes, its effects, and its solutions ¿ are geographically unevenly distributed and situated. Therefore, this unit of study uses geographical concepts to consider what has caused this global crisis, how we should think about the relations and interactions between humans and their environments, and what some strategies are for managing our environment and resources to negotiate this predicament. Using examples focused in Australia, Asia, and the Pacific region, students will learn how to integrate environmental, economic, political, social and cultural considerations and perspectives, and how to evaluate environmental and resource management policies and ideas.
GEOS2123 The Geography of Cities and Regions

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Bill Pritchard, A/Prof Kurt Iveson Session: Semester 1 Classes: One hour tutorial per week Prerequisites: 6 credit points of first year Geosciences units. Prohibitions: GEOS2923 Assessment: Written reports (20%), exam (40%), field report (20%), GIS project (20%) Practical field work: Two hours on average, including fieldtrips within Sydney Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
How can we understand the ways that cities and regions change over time, and how these processes shape people's lives? This Unit of Study provides conceptual and practical material for exploring these questions. A program of lectures and tutorials in complemented by close study of Sydney, using GIS (census and satellite imagery) and a series of walking tours to different parts of the city. Assessment is tailored to projects in which students are required to integrate conceptual ideas about cities and regions with GIS mapping and field observations.
GEOS2124 Fossils and Tectonics

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Patrice Rey (Coordinator), Dr Adriana Dutkiewicz Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1 hour lectures plus one 2 hour practical each week. Prerequisites: 24cp of 1000-level units of study, including (GEOS1003 or GEOS1903) and (GEOS2114 or GEOS2914) Prohibitions: GEOL2123 or GEOL2124 or GEOS2924 Assessment: One 2 hour exam, practical reports, field report (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
The unit aims to convey how fossils, stratigraphic and structural data are used together to determine ages and environments and the deformation history of rock layers. It covers an introduction to historical geology and the evolution of the major fossils groups. Methods of stratigraphic age determination include litho-, bio-, chemo-, magneto- stratigraphy, as well as radiometric geochronology and the stratigraphic characteristics of the main geological time intervals. Structural methods are focused on brittle deformation in the upper crust and sediments. Students will gain familiarity with the most important fossil groups and how to identify them, and with the most important types of faults and folds. The formation of fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas will also be covered in an earth history and resource exploration context. The simultaneous use of fossils, stratigraphy and structure to unravel the geological history of a set of exposed rock layers is demonstrated during a field excursion to Yass.
Textbooks
Class notes for the stratigraphy and fossils part will be available for purchase from The University Copy Centre.
GEOS2911 Natural Hazards: A GIS Approach (Adv)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Dale Dominey-Howes Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two hour lecture; two hour practical/tute/lab Prerequisites: A mark of 75 in a 6 credit point Junior Geosciences unit of study Prohibitions: GEOS2111 Assessment: One 2 hour exam, three reports (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Staff will organize a non-compulsory half-day weekend field excursion to explore local Sydney hazards for interested students.
This unit has the same objectives as GEOS2111 and is suitable for students who wish to pursue aspects of the subject in greater depth. Entry is restricted and selection is made from the applicants on the basis of their performance to date. Students who elect to take this unit will participate in alternatives to some aspects of the standard unit and will be required to pursue independent work to meet unit objectives.
Textbooks
No set textbook
GEOS2914 Volcanoes, Hot Rocks and Minerals Adv

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Derek Wyman, A/Prof Patrice Rey, Dr Nicolas Flament Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1 hour lectures and one 3 hour practical per week. Prerequisites: 24 credit points of Junior Science units of study and Distinction in (GEOL1002 or GEOS1002 or ENVI1002 or GEOL1501 or GEOL1902 or GEOS1902 or GEOS1003 or GEOS1903). Prohibitions: GEOS2114 or GEOL2001 Assessment: One 2 hour exam, practical reports, field trip report, group presentation (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: An optional volcano field study trip to New Zealand's North Island in February is available for up to 20 students. Extra costs apply. Contact with the School is the preceding November or December is advisable to secure a place on the trip.
This unit has the same objectives as GEOS2114 and is suitable for students who wish to pursue aspects of the subject in greater depth. Entry is restricted and selection is made from the applicants on the basis of their performance to date. Students that elect to take this unit will participate in alternatives to some aspects of the standard unit and will be required to pursue independent work to meet unit objectives. This unit may be taken as part of the BSc (Advanced).
Textbooks
No required textbook. Course notes available.
GEOS2915 Oceans, Coasts and Climate Change (Adv)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Dietmar Muller Session: Semester 1 Classes: Twenty-five 1 hour lectures, three 1 hour workshops, eight 2 hour practical classes. Prerequisites: Distinction average in 48 credit points from Junior units of study. Prohibitions: GEOS2115 or MARS2006 Assumed knowledge: GEOG1001 or GEOL1001 or GEOL1002 or GEOS1003 or GEOS1903 or ENVI1002 or GEOL1902 or GEOL1501 Assessment: Lab reports (60%), one 2 hour exam (40%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit has the same objectives as GEOS2115 and is suitable for students who wish to pursue aspects of the subject in greater depth. Entry is restricted and selection is made from the applicants on the basis of their performance to date. Students who elect to take this unit will participate in alternatives to some aspects of the standard unit and will be required to pursue independent work to meet unit objectives.
Textbooks
Online reading materials are provided via Fisher Library.
GEOS2916 Earth Surface Processes (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Dan Penny Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2x1-hr lectures; 1x3-hr practical (lab/computer) sessions each week Prerequisites: Annual average mark of at least 70 Prohibitions: GEOS2116 or GEOG2321 Assessment: practical and research assignments, final exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
The surface of the planet on which you live is the product of a balance between tectonic forces and numerous agents of erosion. The landscapes in which you live and work, and from which you draw resources, are therefore the legacy of many processes operating synchronously over long time periods. It is also true that Earth's landscapes are dynamic, and constantly changing around you in response to climate, tectonics and patterns of life. The sustainable management of landscapes is strongly dependent upon an awareness of those processes and the ways that they constrain human-environment interactions. In the Advanced mode of Earth Surface Processes, you will learn how landscapes are produced, and what this means for contemporary land use. Lectures by experts in physical geography, geology, soil science and environmental science will introduce you to the planetary and regional-scale controls on landforms and landscape dynamics, and the nature and distribution of major Australian landscape types. Focussed around 'hands on' field and laboratory-based tasks, students will gain essential practical, analytical and interpretive skills in the analysis of landscapes and earth surface processes that shape them. The Advanced mode of Earth Surface Processes challenges you to create new knowledge, and provides a higher level of academic rigour. You will take part in a series of small-group practical exercises that will develop your skills in research design and execution, and will provide you with a greater depth of understanding in core aspects of geomorphology. The Advanced mode will culminate in a research-focussed Advanced Assignment. This is a unit for anyone wanting to better understand the planet on which they live, and who may wish to develop higher-level analytical and research skills in geomorphology and landscape analysis.
Textbooks
Allen, P.A., 2009. Earth surface processes. John Wiley and Sons. Scitech, 551.3 72 Sharma, V.K., 2010. Introduction to process geomorphology. CRC Press. Scitech, 551.41 113
GEOS2921 Environmental and Resource Management (Adv)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Sophie Webber Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two hour lecture; one hour tutorial per week Prerequisites: A mark of 75 in a 6 credit point Junior Geosciences unit of study or a mark of 75 in ECOP1001 or ECOP1002 Prohibitions: GEOS2121 Assessment: One exam, one essay, one report, tutorial attendance (100%) Practical field work: Seminar, maximum of four hours Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Advanced students will receive the same core lecture materials as for GEOS2121 but have a separate seminar and are required to complete alternative written work.
GEOS2923 The Geography of Cities and Regions (Adv)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Bill Pritchard, A/Prof Kurt Iveson Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two hour lecture; one hour tutorial per week Prerequisites: A mark of 75 or above in 6 credit points of first year Geosciences units. Prohibitions: GEOS2123 Assessment: Written reports (20%), exam (40%), field report (20%), GIS project (20%) Practical field work: Two hours on average, including fieldtrips within Sydney Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
GEOS2923 has the same thematic content as GEOS2123 however with elements taught at an Advanced level.
GEOS2924 Fossils and Tectonics (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Patrice Rey (Coordinator), Dr Adriana Dutkiewicz Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1 hour lectures plus one 2 hour practical each week. Prerequisites: A mark of 75 or above in [(GEOS1003 or GEOS1903) or (GEOS2114 or GEOS2914)] Prohibitions: GEOL2123 or GEOL2124 or GEOS2124 Assessment: One 2 hour exam, practical reports, field report (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit has the same objectives as GEOS2124 and is suitable for students who wish to pursue aspects of the subject in greater depth. Entry is restricted and selection is made from the applicants on the basis of their performance to date. Students that elect to take this unit will participate in alternatives to some aspects of the standard unit and will be required to pursue independent work to meet unit objectives. This unit may be taken as part of the BSc (Advanced).
Textbooks
The same as for GEOS2124.
History and Philosophy of Science
1000-level units of study
HPSC1000 Bioethics

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Assoc. Professor Dominic Murphy Session: Intensive July,Semester 1,Summer Main Classes: Three 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week Prohibitions: HPSC1900 Assessment: 3 x 1,250 word papers and tutorial work Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: This Junior unit of study is highly recommended to Intermediate and Senior Life Sciences students.
Science has given us nearly infinite possibilities for controlling life. Scientists probe the origins of life through research with stem cells and embryos. To unlock the secrets of disease, biomedicine conducts cruel experiments on animals. GM crops are presented as the answer to hunger. Organ transplantation is almost routine. The international traffic in human body parts and tissues is thriving. The concept of brain death makes harvesting organs ethically more acceptable. It may also result in fundamental changes in our ideas about life. Science has provided new ways of controlling and manipulating life and death. As a consequence, difficult ethical questions are raised in increasingly complex cultural and social environments. This course will discuss major issues in the ethics of biology and medicine, from gene modification to Dolly the sheep. This unit will be introductory, but a small number of topical issues will be studied in depth. No scientific background beyond Year 10 level will be assumed.
Textbooks
Course Reader
HPSC1001 What is this Thing Called Science?

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Peter Godfrey-Smith Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2x1-hr lectures; 1x1-hr online study; and 1x1-hr tutorial per week Prohibitions: HPSC2101 or HPSC2901 or HPSC1901 Assessment: essays and online tasks Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
What distinguishes creationism from evolutionary theory, or astrology from astronomy? Can we have good reason to believe that our current scientific theories represent the world "as it really is"? This course critically examines the most important attempts to describe the scientific method, to draw a line dividing science from non-science, and to justify the high status generally accorded to scientific knowledge. Views studied include Karl Popper's idea that scientific theories are falsifiable in principle, Thomas Kuhn's proposal that science consists of a series of paradigms separated by abrupt scientific revolutions, and claims by Feyerabend and others that there are no objective criteria by which science can be distinguished from pseudo-science. This unit of study also explores contemporary theories of evidence and explanation, the role of social values in science, sociological approaches to understanding science, and the nature of scientific change.
Textbooks
Godfrey-Smith, P (2003). Theory and Reality. The University of Chicago Press. USA/ Curd, Cover and Pincock (2013). Philosophy of Science: The Central Issues (2nd edition). W. W. Norton and Company.
HPSC1900 Bioethics (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Assoc. Professor Dominic Murphy Session: Semester 1 Classes: Three 1 hour lectures, one 1 hour tutorial per week. Prohibitions: HPSC1000 Assumed knowledge: (ATAR 90 or above) or equivalent Assessment: 3 x 1,250 word papers and tutorial work Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
The topics covered by HPSC1000 - Bioethics will be treated in more depth, in a special tutorial set aside for Advanced students.
Textbooks
Course Reader
HPSC1901 What is this Thing Called Science? (Adv)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Peter Godfrey-Smith Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2x1-hr lectures; 1x1-hr online study; and 1x1-hr advanced tutorial per week Prohibitions: HPSC2101 or HPSC2901 or HPSC1001 Assumed knowledge: (ATAR 90 or above) or equivalent Assessment: essays, online tasks and presentation Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
What distinguishes creationism from evolutionary theory, or astrology from astronomy? Can we have good reason to believe that our current scientific theories represent the world "as it really is"? This course critically examines the most important attempts to describe the scientific method, to draw a line dividing science from non-science, and to justify the high status generally accorded to scientific knowledge. Views studied include Karl Popper's idea that scientific theories are falsifiable in principle, Thomas Kuhn's proposal that science consists of a series of paradigms separated by abrupt scientific revolutions, and claims by Feyerabend and others that there are no objective criteria by which science can be distinguished from pseudo-science. This unit of study also explores contemporary theories of evidence and explanation, the role of social values in science, sociological approaches to understanding science, and the nature of scientific change.
Textbooks
Godfrey-Smith, P (2003). Theory and Reality. The University of Chicago Press. USA/ Curd, Cover and Pincock (2013). Philosophy of Science: The Central Issues (2nd edition). W. W. Norton and Company.
2000-level units of study
HPSC2011 Science, Ethics and Society

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Daniela Helbig Session: Semester 1 Classes: lecture 2hrs/ week; tutorial 1 hr/week Prohibitions: HPSC3107 Assumed knowledge: Students should be familiar will introductory material in Philosophy of Science, Ethics or Sociology. Assessment: assignments, quizzes, tutorial participation (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit of study investigates the place of science in society, the internal dynamics of science, and ethical issues within science and in relation to its application. The key idea in this course is that science is a social activity that can be studied like other social phenomena and behaviour. There are three components to this Unit of Study: an exploration of the motivations of scientists and how they can be described using cognitive and ethical rules; science and the media; and ethical issues that have become prominent because of recent developments in science.
Textbooks
Course reader
HPSC2100 The Birth of Modern Science

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Ofer Gal Session: Semester 1,Summer Main Classes: Three 1 hour lectures, one 1 hour tutorial per week. Prerequisites: 24 credit points of Junior units of study Prohibitions: HPSC2900 Assessment: 4xquizzes (30%) and 6x100wd questions (30%) and 3x750wd essays (30%) and class participation (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Modern culture is a culture of science and modern science is the outcome of a historical process of 2,500 years. In this course we investigate how traditional knowledge gradually acquired the characteristics of 'science': the social structure, contents, values and methods we are familiar with. We will look at some primary chapters of this process, from antiquity to the end of the seventeenth century, and try to understand their implications to understanding contemporary science in its culture. Special emphasis will be given to the scientific revolution of the seventeenth century, which is often described as the most important period in the history of science and as one of the most vital stages in human intellectual history.
Textbooks
Dear, Peter: Revolutionizing the Sciences: European Knowledge and Ambitions, 1500-1700. 2nd ed. New York: Palgrave Macmillan (2009).
HPSC2900 The Birth of Modern Science (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof. Ofer Gal Session: Semester 1 Classes: Three 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week. Prerequisites: 24 credit points of Junior study with a Distinction average Prohibitions: HPSC2100 Assessment: 2x1500wd essays (45%) and 1x3000 wd essay (45%) and class presentation (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
The topics covered in 'The Birth of Modern Science' will be covered in more depth, in a special tutorial set aside for advanced students.
Textbooks
Henry, J (2002). The Scientific Revolution and the Origins of Modern Science. Palgrave Macmillan. Course reader
Life and Environmental Sciences
1000-level units of study
AVBS1003 Animals and Us

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Claire Wade Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two lectures; one 3-hour practical; one peer assisted study session per week Prohibitions: VETS1018 Assessment: Assignments, presentation, final exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
We live in a world surrounded by and dependent on animals. Australia has one of the highest rates of animal ownership in the world: dogs, cats, rabbits, birds and reptiles being common. In this unit, you explore animals in society (including companion, pocket and pet, wildlife and zoo animals). You will investigate relationships between humans and animals and normal function of animals including development, disease, aging and death. This unit will describe how human and animal health are related, outline legislation and policies on the care and use of animals, cover topical issues in animal welfare and ethics, provide opportunities for students to observe animal behaviours and discuss how cultural backgrounds influence our relationships with animals. You will visit captive and clinical animal facilities where animals are displayed for conservation, curiosity, aesthetics and research. Practicals and workshops will provide students with skills in critical thinking, communication, information/digital literacy and an evidence informed basis on which to make decisions. This unit is for students who are interested in a professional career working with animals, such as those in the AVBS stream and BVB/DVM program or who generally seek an understanding of how animals enrich our lives.
Textbooks
Animals and Us Unit of Study Guide and Practical Manual TBD
BIOL1006 Life and Evolution

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Charlotte Taylor Session: Semester 1,Summer Main Classes: Two lectures per week Prohibitions: BIOL1001 or BIOL1911 or BIOL1991 or BIOL1906 or BIOL1996 Assumed knowledge: HSC Biology. Students who have not completed HSC Biology (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Biology Bridging Course (offered in February). Assessment: Practical and communication (40%), during semester exams (20%), summative final exam (40%) Practical field work: 11 x 3-hour lab classes, a field excursion Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Biology is an immensely diverse science. Biologists study life at all levels, from the fundamental building blocks (genes, proteins) to whole ecosystems in which myriads of species interact. Evolution is the unifying concept that runs through the life sciences, from the origin and diversification of life to understanding behaviour, to dealing with disease. Evolution through natural selection is the framework in biology in which specific details make sense. This unit explores how new species continue to arise while others go extinct and discusses the role of mutations as the raw material on which selection acts. It explains how information is transferred between generations through DNA, RNA and proteins, transformations which affect all aspects of biological form and function. Science builds and organises knowledge of life and evolution in the form of testable hypotheses. You will participate in inquiry-led practical classes investigating single-celled organisms and the diversity of form and function in plants and animals. By doing this unit of study, you will develop the ability to examine novel biological systems and understand the complex processes that have shaped those systems.
Textbooks
Please see unit outline on LMS
BIOL1007 From Molecules to Ecosystems

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Emma Thompson Session: Semester 2,Summer Main Classes: Two lectures per week and online material and 12 x 3-hour practicals Prohibitions: BIOL1907 or BIOL1997 Assumed knowledge: HSC Biology. Students who have not completed HSC Biology (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Biology Bridging Course (offered in February). Assessment: Quizzes (10%), communication assessment (40%), skills tests (10%), summative final exam (40%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Paradigm shifts in biology have changed the emphasis from single biomolecule studies to complex systems of biomolecules, cells and their interrelationships in ecosystems of life. Such an integrated understanding of cells, biomolecules and ecosystems is key to innovations in biology. Life relies on organisation, communication, responsiveness and regulation at every level. Understanding biological mechanisms, improving human health and addressing the impact of human activity are the great challenges of the 21st century. This unit will investigate life at levels ranging from cells, and biomolecule ecosystems, through to complex natural and human ecosystems. You will explore the importance of homeostasis in health and the triggers that lead to disease and death. You will learn the methods of cellular, biomolecular, microbial and ecological investigation that allow us to understand life and discover how expanding tools have improved our capacity to manage and intervene in ecosystems for our own health and organisms in the environment that surround and support us . You will participate in inquiry-led practicals that reinforce the concepts in the unit. By doing this unit you will develop knowledge and skills that will enable you to play a role in finding global solutions that will impact our lives.
Textbooks
Please see unit outline on LMS
BIOL1008 Human Biology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Osu Lilje Session: Semester 1,Summer Main Classes: Lectures; six 3-hour practical sessions; six workshops and tutorials; students encouraged to spend 1-2 hours per week accessing online resources Prohibitions: BIOL1003 or BIOL1903 or BIOL1993 or MEDS1001 or MEDS1901 or BIOL1908 or BIOL1998 Assumed knowledge: HSC Biology. Students who have not completed HSC Biology (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Biology Bridging Course (offered in February). Assessment: Written and oral presentation, quiz, skills-based assessment, final exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
What will it mean to be human in 2100? How will we be able to control our complex bodily mechanisms to maintain health and fight disease? Advances in the human biology suggest we will age more slowly and new technologies will enhance many bodily structures and functions. This unit of study will explore maintenance of health through nutritional balance, aerobic health, defence mechanisms and human diversity. You will learn key structural features from the subcellular level to the whole organ and body, and learn about essential functional pathways that determine how the body regulates its internal environment and responds to external stimuli and disease. Together we will investigate nutrition, digestion and absorption, cardiovascular and lung function, reproduction, development, epigenetics, and regulation of function through various interventions. You will receive lectures from experts in the field of human biology and medical sciences, supported by practical classes, workshops and on-line resources that leverage off state-of-the-art technologies to develop your practical, critical thinking, communication, collaboration, digital literacy, problem solving, and enquiry-based skills in human biology. This unit of study will provide you with the breadth and depth of knowledge and skills for further studies in majors in medical sciences.
Textbooks
TBA
BIOL1906 Life and Evolution (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Charlotte Taylor Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two lectures per week Prohibitions: BIOL1001 or BIOL1911 or BIOL1991 or BIOL1006 or BIOL1996 Assumed knowledge: 85 or above in HSC Biology or equivalent. Assessment: Practical and communication (40%), during semester exams (20%), summative final exam (40%) Practical field work: 11 x 3-hour lab classes, a field excursion Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Biology is an immensely diverse science. Biologists study life at all levels, from the fundamental building blocks (genes, proteins) to whole ecosystems in which myriads of species interact. Evolution is the unifying concept that runs through the life sciences, from the origin and diversification of life to understanding behaviour, to dealing with disease. Evolution through natural selection is the framework in biology in which specific details make sense. This unit explores how new species continue to arise while others go extinct and discusses the role of mutations as the raw material on which selection acts. It explains how information is transferred between generations through DNA, RNA and proteins, transformations which affect all aspects of biological form and function. Science builds and organises knowledge of life and evolution in the form of testable hypotheses. You will participate in inquiry-led practical classes investigating single-celled organisms and the diversity of form and function in plants and animals.
Life and Evolution (Advanced) has the same overall structure as BIOL1006 but material is discussed in greater detail and at a more advanced level. Students enrolled in BIOL1906 participate in a research project with a focus on developing skills in critical evaluation, experimental design, data analysis and communication.
Textbooks
Please see unit outline on LMS
BIOL1907 From Molecules to Ecosystems (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Pauline Ross Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures per week and online material and 12 x 3-hour practicals Prohibitions: BIOL1007 or BIOL1997 Assumed knowledge: 85 or above in HSC Biology or equivalent Assessment: Quizzes (10%), communication assessment (40%), skills tests (10%), summative exam (40%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Paradigm shifts in biology have changed the emphasis from single biomolecule studies to complex systems of biomolecules, cells and their interrelationships in ecosystems of life. Such an integrated understanding of cells, biomolecules and ecosystems is key to innovations in biology. Life relies on organisation, communication, responsiveness and regulation at every level. Understanding biological mechanisms, improving human health and addressing the impact of human activity are the great challenges of the 21st century. This unit will investigate life at levels ranging from cells, and biomolecule ecosystems, through to complex natural and human ecosystems. You will explore the importance of homeostasis in health and the triggers that lead to disease and death. You will learn the methods of cellular, biomolecular, microbial and ecological investigation that allow us to understand life and discover how expanding tools have improved our capacity to manage and intervene in ecosystems for our own health and organisms in the environment that surround and support us . This unit of study has the same overall structure as BIOL1007 but material is discussed in greater detail and at a more advanced level. The content and nature of these components may vary from year to year.
Textbooks
Please see unit outline on LMS
BIOL1908 Human Biology (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Osu Lilje Session: Semester 1 Classes: Lectures; six 3-hour practical sessions; six workshops and tutorials.; in addition, students are strongly encouraged to spend 1-2 hours per week accessing on-line resources Prohibitions: BIOL1003 or BIOL1903 or BIOL1993 or MEDS1001 or MEDS1901 or BIOL1008 or BIOL1998 Assumed knowledge: 85 or above in HSC Biology or equivalent Assessment: Written and oral presentation, quiz, skills-based assessment, final exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
What will it mean to be human in 2100? How will we be able to control our complex bodily mechanisms to maintain health and fight disease? Advances in the human biology suggest we will age more slowly and new technologies will enhance many bodily structures and functions. This unit of study will explore maintenance of health through nutritional balance, aerobic health, defence mechanisms and human diversity. You will learn key structural features from the subcellular level to the whole organ and body, and learn about essential functional pathways that determine how the body regulates its internal environment and responds to external stimuli and disease. Together we will investigate nutrition, digestion and absorption, cardiovascular and lung function, reproduction, development, epigenetics, and regulation of function through various interventions. You will receive lectures from experts in the field of human biology and medical sciences, supported by practical classes, workshops and on-line resources that leverage off state-of-the-art technologies to develop your practical, critical thinking, communication, collaboration, digital literacy, problem solving, and enquiry-based skills in human biology. This unit of study will provide you with the breadth and depth of knowledge and skills for further studies in majors in medical sciences. The advanced unit has the same overall concepts as the mainstream unit but material is discussed in a manner that offers a greater level of challenge and academic rigour. Students enrolled in the advanced stream will participate in alternative components which may for example include guest lecturers from medical science industries. The nature of these components may vary from year to year.
Textbooks
TBA
BIOL1996 Life and Evolution (SSP)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Mark de Bruyn Session: Semester 1 Classes: Lectures as per BIOL1906; one 3-hour practical per week Prohibitions: BIOL1001 or BIOL1911 or BIOL1991 or BIOL1006 or BIOL1906 or BIOL1993 or BIOL1998 Assumed knowledge: 90 or above in HSC Biology or equivalent Assessment: One 2-hour exam (50%), practical reports (25%), seminar presentation (15%), lab note book (5%), prelaboratory quizzes (5%) Practical field work: null Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Biology is an immensely diverse science. Biologists study life at all levels, from the fundamental building blocks (genes, and proteins) to whole ecosystems in which myriad species interact. Evolution is the unifying concept that runs through the life sciences, from the origin and diversification of life to understanding behaviour, to dealing with disease. Evolution through natural selection is the framework in biology in which specific details make sense. Science builds and organises knowledge of life and evolution in the form of testable hypotheses. The practical work syllabus for BIOL1996 is different from that of BIOL1906 (Advanced) and consists of a special project-based laboratory.
Textbooks
Please see unit outline on LMS
BIOL1997 From Molecules to Ecosystems (SSP)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Dale Hancock Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures per week and online material Prohibitions: BIOL1007 or BIOL1907 Assumed knowledge: 90 or above in HSC Biology or equivalent Assessment: One 2-hour exam (50%), project report which includes written report and presentation (50%) Practical field work: As advised and required by the project; approximately 30-36 hours of research project in the laboratory or field Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Paradigm shifts in biology have changed the emphasis from single biomolecule studies to complex systems of biomolecules, cells and their interrelationships in ecosystems of life. Such an integrated understanding of cells, biomolecules and ecosystems is key to innovations in biology. Life relies on organisation, communication, responsiveness and regulation at every level. Understanding biological mechanisms, improving human health and addressing the impact of human activity are the great challenges of the 21st century. This unit will investigate life at levels ranging from cells, and biomolecule ecosystems, through to complex natural and human ecosystems. You will explore the importance of homeostasis in health and the triggers that lead to disease and death. You will learn the methods of cellular, biomolecular, microbial and ecological investigation that allow us to understand life and intervene in ecosystems to improve health. The same theory will be covered as in the advanced stream but in this Special Studies Unit, the practical component is a research project. The research will be either a synthetic biology project investigating genetically engineered organisms or organismal/ecosystems biology. Students will have the opportunity to develop higher level generic skills in computing, communication, critical analysis, problem solving, data analysis and experimental design.
Textbooks
Please see unit outline on LMS
BIOL1998 Human Biology (Special Studies Program)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Mark de Bruyn Session: Semester 1 Classes: Lectures; 12 3-hour practical sessions; students are strongly encouraged to spend 1-2 hours on online resources Prohibitions: BIOL1003 or BIOL1903 or BIOL1993 or BIOL1991 or BIOL1996 or MEDS1001 or MEDS1901 or BIOL1008 or BIOL1908 Assumed knowledge: 90 or above in HSC Biology or equivalent Assessment: written and oral presentation, quiz, skills-based assessment, final exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
What will it mean to be human in 2100? How will we be able to control our complex bodily mechanisms to maintain health and fight disease? Advances in the human biology suggest we will age more slowly and new technologies will enhance many bodily structures and functions. This unit of study will explore maintenance of health through nutritional balance, aerobic health, defence mechanisms and human diversity. You will learn key structural features from the subcellular level to the whole organ and body, and learn about essential functional pathways that determine how the body regulates its internal environment and responds to external stimuli and disease. Together we will investigate nutrition, digestion and absorption, cardiovascular and lung function, reproduction, development, epigenetics, and regulation of function through various interventions. You will receive lectures from experts in the field of human biology and medical sciences, supported by practical classes, workshops and on-line resources that leverage off state-of-the-art technologies to develop your practical, critical thinking, communication, collaboration, digital literacy, problem solving, and enquiry-based skills in human biology. This unit of study will provide you with the breadth and depth of knowledge and skills for further studies in majors in medical sciences.
Textbooks
TBA
ENVI1003 Global Challenges: Food, Water, Climate

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Stephen Cattle Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures per week, 2hour tutorial/computer lab per week, two-day weekend field trip Assessment: One 2-hour exam (50%), field trip report (15%), tutorial presentation (20%), GIS reports (15%) Practical field work: Computer practicals and two day field trip Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
In the 21st century the population of the world will increase both in size and its expectation in terms of food, energy and consumer demands. Against this demand we have a planet in crisis where natural resources are degraded, biodiversity is diminishing and planetary cycles related to climate are reaching points of irreversible change. Management of our precious natural resources is a balancing act between production and conservation as always, but now we have to do this against a background of potential large scale changes in climate. In this unit students will gain an understanding of the key environmental challenges of the 21st century; namely food security, climate change, water security, biodiversity protection, ecosystems services and soil security. In the second half using Australian case studies we will explore how we manage different agro-ecosystems within their physical constraints around water, climate and soil, while considering linkages with the global environmental challenges. Management now, in the past and the future will be considered, with an emphasis on food production. This unit is recommended unit for students interested in gaining a broad overview of the environmental challenges of the 21st century, both globally and within Australia.
ENVX1002 Introduction to Statistical Methods

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Thomas Bishop Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week, one 1-hour tutorial per week, one 2-hour computer practical per week Prohibitions: ENVX1001 Assessment: One exam during the exam period (50%), three reports (10% each), ten online quizzes (2% each) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Available as a degree core unit only in the Agriculture, Animal and Veterinary Bioscience, and Food and Agribusiness streams
This is an introductory statistics unit for students in the agricultural, life and environmental sciences. It provides the foundation for statistics and data science skills that are needed for a career in science and for further study in applied statistics and data science. In the first portion of the unit the emphasis is on describing data using statistical and graphical summaries, and probability models. In the second part the focus is on formal hypothesis testing on experimental data using statistical tests. The final part of the unit is on finding patterns in biological and environmental data, through the use of linear and non-linear functions. In the practicals the emphasis is on applying theory to analysing real datasets using the spreadsheet package Excel and the statistical software package R. A key feature of the unit is using R to develop coding skills that are become essential in science for processing and analysing datasets of ever increasing size.
Textbooks
No textbooks are recommended but useful reference books are:
VETS1032 Animal Energetics and Homeostasis

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Paul Sheehy Session: Semester 1 Classes: 39 hours of lectures per semester, 7 hours of practicals per semester, 4 hours of tutorials per semester Assumed knowledge: HSC level chemistry and/or biology would be an advantage Assessment: Intra-semester: one exam (25%) end of semester; one 2-hour written exam (60%) other: one cytology group learning exercise (15%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit will further develop student's understanding of animal cells and how they interact in whole animals and how energy from food is used to facilitate cellular function. Further investigation of cellular structure that facilitates this function will form as an introduction to the focus of the unit which is to develop understanding of metabolism in cells and whole animals. An introduction to the contribution of the endocrine system to homeostasis of animals via their effects on animal metabolism and physiology will also be described. An understanding of commonly occurring disturbances to the production or action of hormones will be developed with clinical material being used to illustrate normal structure and function. The ultimate objective of this unit is to enable students to utilise biochemical, observational and animal pathology to propose the underlying basis of metabolic or other non-infectious disease and consider opportunities for intervention to restore homeostasis.
Textbooks
VETS1032 Animal Energetics and Homeostasis of Study outline and practical class manual
2000-level units of study
AGEN2001 Plant Function

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Tina Bell (Coordinator), Dr Thomas Roberts Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures, One 3-hour practical per week Prerequisites: 6cp from (BIOL1XXX or AGEN1004) and 12cp from (CHEM1XX1 or CHEM1XX2 or AGEN1006) Prohibitions: PHSI2005 or PHSI2006 or PHSI2905 or PHSI2906 Assessment: One 1-hour mid-semester exam (25%), one 1-hour final exam (25%), 1 x 1000wd essay (10%), four practical reports (40%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit of study is designed to develop an understanding of the structural and molecular principles that underlie the function of plants and how these principles relate to the use of plants by humans as sources of food, fibre and fuel.
The unit is a core unit for BScAgr students and an elective for BSc and other degree programs. It recognizes the specialized nature of plant anatomy and biochemistry and is a platform for students who wish to gain a sound knowledge of plant growth and development.
This unit covers the structure of plant cells and the anatomy of the major tissues and organs of plants. It also covers the biochemistry of the main carbohydrate, lipid, protein and nucleic acid constituents of plants, as well as the metabolic pathways that regulate plant growth and development.
At the completion of this unit students will be able to demonstrate theoretical knowledge of the structure and function of plants. Students will also be able to demonstrate abilities in the practice of laboratory methods used to analyse plants and the effective communication of experimental findings.

Students enrolled in this unit will gain research and enquiry skills through attendance at lectures and participation in laboratory classes and tutorials; information literacy and communication skills through the synthesis of information used to prepare practical reports; social and professional understanding by participation in group-work and assessments that seek to demonstrate the role of agriculture in the broader community.
Textbooks
Taiz L, Zeiger E (2010) Plant Physiology 5th ed.
AGEN2002 Fresh Produce Management

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Rosalind Deaker Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week Prerequisites: 6cp from (BIOL1XXX or AGEN1004 or MBLG1XX1) Assumed knowledge: HSC level Mathematics and Biology and CHEM1XX1 or CHEM1XX2 or CHEM1903 or CHEM1904 Assessment: Three practical reports (15% each), one group presentation (15%), one end of semester exam (40%) Practical field work: Two field trips, six practical sessions per semester Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit of study covers some fundamental concepts in food science with a particular emphasis on post-harvest management of fresh produce. Students will critically examine the science underpinning management and handling of fresh food products. The unit primarily addresses the challenges of maintaining quality, extending shelf life and improving safety of fresh perishable produce by examining relevant industrial practices and technologies.. Students will develop practical skills and integrate knowledge of physiology, technology and economics of fresh produce management to determine optimal storage and handling conditions for maximum quality, shelf life, safety and ultimately consumer experience. The majority of examples will be drawn from fruits and vegetables, dairy, eggs, meat and seafood products. Industry quality assurance schemes and government regulations will be examined, with particular reference to food safety. The students will gain research, inquiry and communication skills through a research-based group project, an oral presentation and laboratory reports. Personal and intellectual autonomy will be developed through group and individual work.
Textbooks
No prescribed textbooks
AGEN2006 Animal Production and Management

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Luciano Gonzalez Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week Prerequisites: 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, AGEN1004) and 12cp from (CHEM1XX1, CHEM1XX2, AGEN1006) Prohibitions: AVBS1002 Assumed knowledge: HSC level Mathematics and Biology Assessment: One 2-hour final exam (50%), four online quizzes (20%), reflective statement (5%), handling and husbandry resource guide (20%), lectures and practicals attendance (5%) Practical field work: Six excursions/ practical sessions per semester Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit of study is designed to develop the student's ability to critically examine and evaluate the production and management of animals used for food and fibre in Australia and internationally. The unit will focus on new and emerging issues in animal production, including productivity, welfare, remote monitoring and management, animals in the environment, and meeting specifications in an ever-evolving marketplace. The identification, selection and breeding of animals that are optimally suited to production systems is a focus. New thinking and innovations that are being used to address scientific, industry and social expectation challenges will be a feature of the unit and case studies will be used throughout to examine interactions between these factors and their impact on management practices. Students will gain research and inquiry skills through research based group projects, information literacy and communication skills through online discussion postings, laboratory reports and presentations, and personal and intellectual autonomy through working in groups. At the successful completion of the unit, students will have the core knowledge and skills to enable them to lead developments in production animal industries in Australia and overseas.
Textbooks
No prescribed textbooks
AVBS2001 Introductory Veterinary Pathogenesis

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Damien Higgins Session: Semester 2 Classes: 6 hours per week (lectures and practicals) Prerequisites: 6cp of BIOL1XXX or MBLG1XX1 Assumed knowledge: (CHEM1XX1 or CHEM1903) and (CHEM1XX2 or CHEM1904) Assessment: Practical class exercises (15%), mid-semester exam (20%), practical exam (15%), written exam (50%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
The overarching theme for this unit of study is the concept of the interaction between the host (or the animal), the agent of disease (genetics, physical, chemical and infectious agents) and environmental factors. In disease states, the host responds to the aetiological agent of disease and the environment through one of the basic five pathological processes that occur in tissues. These include inflammation and repair, degeneration and necrosis, circulatory disturbances, tissue deposits and pigments, and disorders of growth. A case based approach will be used whenever possible to illustrate these principles and enable the student to develop a problem solving approach and the skills of critical thinking.
Textbooks
McGavin, MD and Zachary JF 2007, Pathologic Basis of Disease 4th ed., Mosby
BCMB2001 Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Dale Hancock Session: Semester 1 Classes: Three lectures/tutorials per week ; one 4-hour practical session per fortnight Prerequisites: 6cp of (BIOL1XX7 or MBLG1XXX) and 6cp of CHEM1XX1 Prohibitions: BCHM2072 or BCHM2972 or MBLG2071 or MBLG2971 or BMED2405 or BCMB2901 Assessment: Assignments, skills-based assessment, quizzes, exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Without cells, life as we know it would not exist. These dynamic assemblies, packed with biological molecules are constantly in action. But how do cells work? Why is the food that you eat so important for cellular function? How is information transmitted from generation to generation? And, what happens as a result of disease or genetic mutation? In this unit of study you will learn how cells work at the molecular level, with an emphasis on human biochemistry and molecular biology. We will focus initially on cellular metabolism and how cells extract and store energy from fuels like fats and carbohydrates, how the use of fuels is modulated in response to exercise, starvation and disease, and how other key metabolites are processed. Then we will explore how genetic information is regulated in eukaryotes, including replication, transcription and translation, and molecular aspects of the cell cycle, mitosis and meiosis. Our practicals, along with other guided and online learning sessions will introduce you to widely applied and cutting edge tools that are essential for modern biochemistry and molecular biology. By the end of this unit you will be equipped with foundational skills and knowledge to support your studies in the life and medical sciences.
Textbooks
Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry 7th edition (2016) David L. Nelson Michael M. Cox Macmillan (ISBN-10: 1-4641-2611-9; ISBN-13: 978-1-4641-2611-6)
BCMB2002 Proteins in Cells

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Sandro Ataide Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week; one 4-hour practical/tutorial session per week Prerequisites: 6cp of (BIOL1XX7 or MBLG1XXX) and 6cp of CHEM1XX1 Prohibitions: BCHM2071 or BCHM2971 or BCMB2902 Assessment: Assignments, skills-based assessment, quiz, final exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
A single human cell contains billions of protein molecules that are constantly in motion. Why so many? What are they doing? And, how are they doing it? In simple terms, proteins define the function of and drive almost every process within cells. In this unit of study you will learn about the biochemistry of proteins in their natural environment - within cells - with a focus on eukaryotes including plant and other cell types. You will discover the dynamic interplay within and between proteins and other cellular components and how the physical properties of proteins dictate function. You will discover how proteins are compartmentalized, modified, folded, transported in and between cells, the mechanisms by which proteins regulate biological activities, interact and transport molecules across membranes, and how mutations in proteins can lead to pathological consequences. Our practicals, other guided and online learning sessions will introduce you to a wide range of currently utilised techniques for protein biochemistry ranging from protein visualization, quantification, purification and enzymatic activity, to in silico studies and cellular targeting experiments. By the end of this unit you will be equipped with foundational skills and knowledge to support your studies in the cellular and molecular biosciences.
Textbooks
Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry 7th edition (2016) David L. Nelson Michael M. Cox Macmillan (ISBN-10: 1-4641-2611-9; ISBN-13: 978-1-4641-2611-6)
BCMB2901 Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Dale Hancock Session: Semester 1 Classes: Three 1-hour lectures/tutorials per week; one 4-hour practical per fortnight Prerequisites: A mark of at least 70 from (BIOL1XX7 or MBLG1XX1) and CHEM1XX1 Prohibitions: BCHM2072 or BCHM2972 or MBLG2071 or MBLG2971 or BMED2405 or BCMB2001 Assessment: Assignments, quiz, skills-based assessment, exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Without cells, life as we know it would not exist. These dynamic assemblies, packed with biological molecules are constantly in action. But how do cells work? Why is the food that you eat so important for cellular function? How is information transmitted from generation to generation? And, what happens as a result of disease or genetic mutation? In this unit of study you will learn how cells work at the molecular level, with an emphasis on human biochemistry and molecular biology. We will focus initially on cellular metabolism and how cells extract and store energy from fuels like fats and carbohydrates, how the use of fuels is modulated in response to exercise, starvation and disease, and how other key metabolites are processed. Then we will explore how genetic information is regulated in eukaryotes, including replication, transcription and translation, and molecular aspects of the cell cycle, mitosis and meiosis. The advanced laboratory component will provide students with an authentic research laboratory experience while in the theory component, current research topics will be presented in a problem-based format through dedicated advanced tutorial sessions. This material will be assessed by creative student-centered activities supported by eLearning platforms.
Textbooks
Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry 7th edition (2016) David L. Nelson Michael M. Cox Macmillan (ISBN-10: 1-4641-2611-9; ISBN-13: 978-1-4641-2611-6)
BCMB2902 Proteins in Cells (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Sandro Ataide Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week; one 4-hour practical/tutorial session per week Prerequisites: A mark of at least 70 from (BIOL1XX7 or MBLG1XX1) and CHEM1XX1 Prohibitions: BCHM2071 or BCHM2971 or BCMB2002 Assessment: Assignment, skills-based assessment, quiz, exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
A single human cell contains billions of protein molecules that are constantly in motion. Why so many? What are they doing? And, how are they doing it? In simple terms, proteins define the function of and drive almost every process within cells. In this unit of study you will learn about the biochemistry of proteins in their natural environment - within cells - with a focus on eukaryotes including plant and other cell types. You will discover the dynamic interplay within and between proteins and other cellular components and how the physical properties of proteins dictate function. You will discover how proteins are compartmentalized, modified, folded, transported in and between cells, the mechanisms by which proteins regulate biological activities, interact and transport molecules across membranes, and how mutations in proteins can lead to pathological consequences. There will be a research-focused approach to the advanced practical component, including real and virtual extensions to key experiments. This approach will continue in the lecture series with several unique advanced lectures covering current research topics. You will further investigate a selected area of interest from these topics using original source material and present your findings through an oral presentation in dedicated advanced tutorials.
Textbooks
Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry 7th edition (2016) David L. Nelson Michael M. Cox Macmillan (ISBN-10: 1-4641-2611-9; ISBN-13: 978-1-4641-2611-6)
BIOL2009 Intro to Terrestrial Field Ecology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Glenda Wardle Session: Intensive July Classes: Note: One 6-day field trip held in the pre-semester break and four 4-hour practical classes during weeks 1-4 of semester 2 Prerequisites: 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) Prohibitions: BIOL2909 or BIOL3009 or BIOL3909 Assumed knowledge: Basic experimental design and statistical analysis. Assessment: Two in-class quizzes (20%), major research report (40%), sampling project report (20%), research proposal and presentation (10%), data collection and analysis in teams (10%). Mode of delivery: Field experience Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: This unit requires School permission to enrol; please see the School of Life and Environmental Sciences website for details on how to apply. Entry into the unit is based on placement availability and selection is competitive based on academic performance in the pre-requisite units of study. Academic performance in any intermediate BIOL units of study may also be considered.
This intensive field-based course provides a practical introduction in the experimental analysis of terrestrial populations and assemblages. The experience is best suited to students who will continue into senior units of study in ecology. Students learn a broad range of ecological sampling techniques and develop a detailed understanding of the logical requirements necessary for manipulative ecological field experiments. The field work takes place in native forest and incorporates survey techniques for plants, small mammals and other fauna and thus provides a good background for ecological consulting work and an introduction into large-scale project management. Students attend a week-long field course and participate in a large-scale research project as part of a large team, as well as conducting a research project that they design with a small group of students. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking in the context of environmental management and technical skills are developed in the area of data handling and analysis, report writing and team work. Invited experts contribute to the lectures and discussions on issues relating to the ecology, conservation and management of Australia's terrestrial flora and fauna.
BIOL2010 Intro to Tropical Wildlife Biology

This unit of study is not available in 2018

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Matthew Greenlees Session: Intensive February Classes: One week intensive field trip to the Northern Territory plus one week intensive lecture and prac session at Sydney University. Prerequisites: 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) Prohibitions: BIOL2910, BIOL3910, BIOL3010 Assessment: Practical exam (15%), Presentation (15%), Reports (30%), Theory exam (40%). Mode of delivery: Field experience Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: This unit cannot be combined with more than one other BIOL field unit during the degree. Departmental permission is required for entry into this unit of study. Entry into the unit is based on placement availability and selection is competitive based on academic performance in the pre-requisite units of study. Academic performance in any intermediate BIOL units of study may also be considered. The unit is only available in ODD years (2017, 2019), but students may apply for entry into an alternative intermediate field unit in EVEN years.
Australia has a unique terrestrial vertebrate fauna and native wildlife management presents special challenges for biologists, conservationists and land managers because of Australia's climate, landforms, and the rarity of many species. This unit of study considers fundamental questions in biology by addressing the biogeography, ecology and management of Australia's terrestrial fauna, with a focus on the wet-dry tropical savannah woodlands. Study in this unit includes a one-week field trip at Mary River Park in the Northern Territory and at Litchfield National Park. Professional biologists working on a range of environmental issues in wet-dry tropical woodlands from the Northern Territory will present guest lecturers to students and, in the field, students will track and identify wildlife and conduct faunal surveys. The fieldtrip is followed by a one-week intensive of lectures and prac sessions on Camperdown campus. This unit of study provides a suitable foundation for senior biology units of study.
BIOL2020 Introduction to Coral Reef Biology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Will Figueira Session: Intensive July Classes: 7-day intensive field course Prerequisites: 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) Prohibitions: BIOL2920 or BIOL3016 or BIOL3916 Assumed knowledge: Basic experimental design and statistical analysis. Assessment: Two 1000-wd essays (2x10%), one 2000-wd field report (40%), one 2-hour exam (40%) Mode of delivery: Field experience Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: This unit requires School permission to enrol; please see the School of Life and Environmental Sciences website for details on how to apply. Entry into the unit is based on placement availability and selection is competitive based on academic performance in the pre-requisite units of study. Academic performance in any Intermediate BIOL units of study may also be considered.
This unit covers the key biological organisms and processes in coral reef environments and linkages between them. Emphasis is given to corals, other reef associated invertebrates (e.g. echinoderms), plankton and fishes. Ecological and physiological aspects of key organisms are explored. Aspects covered include oceanography, biogeography, distribution of corals, coral bleaching and health, symbioses, the input of plankton to reefs, the role of fishes and invertebrate bio-eroders in reef environments, and impacts of environmental change on coral reef health. The unit is well suited to students with interests in marine science and ecology, environmental sciences and broader disciplines (e.g. education, arts, and environmental law).
Textbooks
Hutchings PA, O. Hoegh-Guldberg and M. J. Kingsford (eds) 2008 The Great Barrier Reef, Biology, Environment and Management. CSIRO Press. Hopley 2011 Encyclopedia of Modern Coral Reefs. Springer.
BIOL2021 Zoology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Mathew Crowther Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two lectures and one 3-hour practical per week. Prohibitions: BIOL2921 or BIOL2011 or BIOL2911 or BIOL2012 or BIOL2912 Assumed knowledge: BIOL1XXX or MBLG1XXX Assessment: One 2-hour theory exam (50%), Lab book (15%), Invertebrate Collection (20%), Oral presentation (15%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit of study provides an overview of the functional and phylogenetic diversity of invertebrate and vertebrate animals. The material is presented within the conceptual framework of evolution, the foundation of biology. Lectures explore the diversity of major functional systems and behaviour in the context of environmental challenges and the ecological roles of different animal groups. Laboratory classes include dissections and demonstrations of the functional anatomy of invertebrates and vertebrates, as well as experiments. This unit of study provides a suitable foundation for senior biology units of study.
Textbooks
Recommended reading: Hickman CP, Roberts LS, Larson A, l'Anson H 2004. Integrated Principles of Zoology, 12th ed. McGraw Hill, NY. Withers, P. 1992 Comparative Animal Physiology. Saunders, New York
BIOL2022 Biology Experimental Design and Analysis

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Clare McArthur Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures per week and one 3-hour practical per week. Prerequisites: 6cp from (BIOL1XXX or MBLG1XXX or ENVX1001 or ENVX1002 or DATA1001 or MATH1XX5) Prohibitions: BIOL2922 or BIOL3006 or BIOL3906 Assumed knowledge: BIOL1XXX or MBLG1XXX Assessment: Practical reports/presentations (60%), one 2-hour exam (40%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit provides foundational skills essential for doing research in biology and for critically judging the research of others. We consider how biology is practiced as a quantitative, experimental and theoretical science. We focus on the underlying principles and practical skills you need to explore questions and test hypotheses, particularly where background variation (error) is inherently high. In so doing, the unit provides you with an understanding of how biological research is designed, analysed and interpreted using statistics. Lectures focus on sound experimental and statistical principles, using examples in ecology and other fields of biology to demonstrate concepts. In the practical sessions, you will design and perform, analyse (using appropriate statistical tools) and interpret your own experiments to answer research questions in topics relevant to your particular interest. This unit of study provides a suitable foundation for senior biology units of study.
Textbooks
Required: Ruxton, G. and Colegrave, N. 2016. Experimental design for the life sciences. 4th Ed. Oxford
BIOL2024 Ecology and Conservation

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Peter Banks Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures and one 3-hour practical per week. Prohibitions: BIOL2924 Assumed knowledge: BIOL1XXX or MBLG1XXX Assessment: Practical reports/presentations (50%), one 2-hour exam (50%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit of study examines the ecological principles driving the major ecosystems of the world and ecological processes behind the world's major conservation issues. It aims to develop in students the core foundations for an understanding of Ecology and its application in conservation. Lectures will focus on the ecology of the major terrestrial and marine biomes of the world. Application of ecological theory and methods to practical conservation problems will be integrated throughout the unit of study. Practical sessions will provide hands-on experience in ecological sampling and data handling to understand the ecology of marine and terrestrial environments, as well as ecological simulations to understand processes. This unit of study provides a suitable foundation for senior biology units of study.
Textbooks
Recommended: Essentials of Ecology 4th edition (2014). Townsend, CR, Begon, M, Harper, JL . John
BIOL2028 Introduction to Marine Field Ecology

This unit of study is not available in 2018

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Ross Coleman Session: Intensive July Classes: 8-day intensive field course Prerequisites: 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) Prohibitions: BIOL2928 or BIOL3008 or BIOL3908 Assessment: In-class test on Biodiversity (30%), descriptive reports of sampling methodologies appropriate to different organisms (20%), practical reports/presentations (40%), record keeping and participation (10%). Mode of delivery: Field experience Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: This unit cannot be combined with more than one other BIOL field unit during the degree. Entry into the unit is based on placement availability and selection is competitive based on academic performance in the pre-requisite units of study. Academic performance in any intermediate BIOL units of study may also be considered. The unit is only available in ODD years (2015, 2017), but students may apply for entry into an alternative intermediate field unit in EVEN years.
This fieldwork unit of study provides an introduction to experimental research on marine organisms. Students do research projects designed to develop an understanding of the experimental studies of marine organisms and the analysis of resulting data. The ethos of the unit is to encourage students to develop a logical approach to hypothesis testing in marine ecology, by experimentally testing hypotheses on the distribution and behaviour of marine organisms. Emphasis is given to developing research skills in field ecology and placing empirical observations into a coherent logical structure. This unit of study provides a suitable foundation for senior biology units of study.
Textbooks
Recommended
BIOL2029 Cells

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Murray Thomson Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures; one 4-hour practical per week Prerequisites: BIOL1XX7 or MBLG1XXX Prohibitions: BIOL2016 or BIOL2916 or BIOL2929 Assessment: 3-hour theory exam (60%), quizzes (lectures and laboratory work) (10%), marks for laboratory work (10%), report (20%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Cell Biology is one of the most dynamic areas in science today. During development, a single cell zygote must undergo numerous divisions to become a multi-cellular organism. In both plants and animals, cell to cell communication and coordination of the cell cycle, as well as cellular division and migration, are vital for normal development. Stem cells follow specialisation pathways to become increasingly committed to differentiation, and transformation into specialised cells that group together to form the variety of tissues that make up animals and plants. In this unit you will investigate, the diversity of cell types, how these different cells interact with each other, how the cell cycle is controlled as well as studying the roles of cellular movement, differentiation and interaction in reproduction and development. In Cells you will develop a deep understanding of the established knowledge base and develop research skills to extend this knowledge. Discussions will incorporate recent advances in cell research including the regenerative potential of stem cells and their use in treatments to replace damaged and diseased tissue. The laboratory program, provides you with hands on training in key techniques such as in vitro cell culture, organelle isolation and experimentation, as well as microscopy. These skills will prepare you for a research pathway and/or a career that includes cell biology.
Textbooks
Alberts B., Johnson A., Lewis J., Raff M., Roberts K., Walter P. (2014) Molecular Biology of the Cell (Sixth edition). Garland Publishing Inc., New York and London (ISBN-9780815344643)
BIOL2030 Botany

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Rosanne Quinnell Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lecture/week; one 3-hour practical/week; a series of five 1-hour tutorial/week in the latter part of the semester Prohibitions: BIOL2023 or BIOL2923 or AGEN2001 or PLNT2001 or PLNT2901 or PLNT2002 or PLNT2902 or PLNT2003 or PLNT2903 or AGEN2005 or BIOL2930 Assumed knowledge: Knowledge of concepts and skills in BIOL1XX6. Assessment: Online quizzes (15%), anatomy project report and presentation (20%), practical exam (30%), theory exam (35%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
We are surrounded by plants, and rely on them every day for our wellbeing. Ecologists use botanical knowledge to help manage marine and terrestrial ecosystems, and public health and land management professionals depend on their understanding of plant science to help solve environmental problems and to enhance biosecurity. Botany aims to increase and improve our supply of medicines, foods, and other plant products, and is critical for anyone interested in contributing to the sustainable future of our planet. In this unit, you will explore the origins, diversity, and global significance of plants. You will gain insights into the micro- and macro-evolutionary processes and patterns behind how plants moved from aquatic ecosystems to terrestrial ecosystems. Integrated lectures, practical classes, and extensive online resources will allow you to develop and integrate practical skills and conceptual frame works in plant identification, plant physiology, plant anatomy, and plant morphology. Lectures and practical classes are augmented by self-instructional audio-visual sessions and by small group discussions to foster a sense of self-reliance and collaboration. Successful completion of BIOL2023 will allow you to contribute to a range of disciplines including: ecology, bioinformatics, molecular and cell biology, genetics and biotechnology, environmental law, agriculture, education and the arts.
Textbooks
Evert RF and Eichhorn SE. 2013. Raven: Biology of Plants. 8th Ed. Freeman and Co Publishers. New York. NY.
BIOL2031 Plants and Environment

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Brent Kaiser Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures; one 4-hour practical session on a weekly basis Prohibitions: AGEN2005 or BIOL3043 or BIOL3943 or BIOL2931 Assumed knowledge: Knowledge of concepts and skills in BIOL1XX6. Assessment: Online quiz (20%), lab assignment (15%), presentation (15%), exam (50%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Plants grow across a range of environments, influencing form, function and ultimately reproductive success. Being sessile, plants lack the luxury of seeking an alternative 'stress-free lifestyle' and therefore rely on genetic and physical adaptations to survive and reproduce. To understand how a plant can achieve such flexibility requires knowledge of plant structure and the influence of environmental drivers on plant growth and function. In this unit, you will examine the physiological processes controlling plant growth and reproduction linked to environmental constraints. You will understand the relationship between tissue and cellular structure and their underlying role in physiological and metabolic activities, particularly processes involving light capture, photosynthesis, water regulation, nutrient management and metabolite redistribution. Lectures and interactive practicals will together introduce you to plant processes that underpin life on earth. Experimentation and analysis of plant physiological processes will develop a skill base that will lead to a greater understanding and appreciation of common plant processes. As a component of the Plant Science minor and the Plant Production major, BIOL2031 will provide an important platform to extend your interests in plant science and plant related fields across the curriculum.
Textbooks
Taiz, L. and Zeiger, E. (2010) Plant Physiology, Fifth Edition. Sinauer Associates. Sunderland, MA.
BIOL2032 Australian Wildlife Biology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Catherine Herbert Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three lectures; one 2-hour tutorial or practical session each week Prohibitions: ANSC2005 Assessment: Quizzes, presentation assignment, exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Australia is home to a broad diversity of vertebrate wildlife species, many of which are unique to the Australian environment, having evolved in isolation from other large land-masses for millions of years. This unit examines the diversity of Australian reptiles, amphibians, birds and mammals (including all three mammalian lineages; monotremes, marsupials and eutherian mammals). We focus on the unique anatomical, physiological and behavioural adaptations that have enabled our wildlife to survive and thrive within varied Australian ecosystems. We also examine how the uniqueness of our wildlife is also one of its greatest challenges, being na¿ve to the new threats that are present in our rapidly changing environments. At the end of this unit you should have an appreciation of the diversity and uniqueness of Australian wildlife; be able to determine the links between form and function in wildlife and understand the significance of these functional adaptations in relation to ecological challenges. You will also have an understanding of the interactions between humans and wildlife, and how the unique characteristics of our wildlife also make them vulnerable to threats within the rapidly changing Australian environment. Students will also develop enhanced scientific literacy and communication skills through tutorial activities and assessment tasks.
Textbooks
No text book requirements. Recommended reading throughout semester provided by each lecture relevant to their class content. Relevant scientific papers will be uploaded to LMS
BIOL2033 Entomology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Tanya Latty Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures; one 3-hour practical sessions a weekly basis Prohibitions: ENTO2001 Assessment: Practical test, skills-based assessment, final exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Insects are the most abundant and diverse group of animals on earth; beetles alone account for 25% of animal life. Insects impact almost every facet of the ecosystem and our lives. Many insects play valuable and essential roles in pollinating different plant species, in predating and controlling insect pests and in recycling nutrients. Other insects are harmful and are the vectors for major diseases such as plague, malaria and recently emerged viral disease Zika. This unit will provide students with a broad introduction to entomology including insect evolution, ecology, anatomy and physiology. Students will learn applied entomological topics such as sustainable insect management in agricultural ecosystems, medical and veterinary entomology, insect-inspired technologies, and insects as a future food source for both livestock and humans. This theoretical background will be complemented by training in how to use and evaluate a range of identification tools such as lucid and traditional dichotomous keys that enable you to identify and classify major groups of insects. Practical classes will allow you to develop your identification, classification and preservation skills though examination of boxes of 'mystery insects' and through creating a museum-quality insect collection. Students will also learn procedures for caring and rearing live insects. By the end of the unit you will be well prepared to work in fields that require entomological skills.
Textbooks
Info will be made available via Blackboard. Keys will be available in practical classes and in the lab Manual
BIOL2909 Intro to Terrestrial Field Ecology (Adv)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Glenda Wardle Session: Intensive July Classes: Note: One 6-day field trip held in the pre-semester break and four 4-hour practical classes during weeks 1-4 of semester 2 Prerequisites: An average of 75 or above in 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) Prohibitions: BIOL2009 or BIOL3009 or BIOL3909 Assumed knowledge: Basic experimental design and statistical analysis. Assessment: Discussions and quiz (10%), research project proposal and brief presentation (10%), sampling project report (20%), specimen collection (10%), research project report (50%) Mode of delivery: Field experience Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: This unit requires School permission to enrol; please see the School of Life and Environmental Sciences website for details on how to apply. Entry into the unit is based on placement availability and selection is competitive based on academic performance in the pre-requisite units of study. Academic performance in any intermediate BIOL units of study may also be considered.
This unit has the same objectives as BIOL2009 Terrestrial Field Ecology, and is suitable for qualified students who wish to pursue certain aspects at a more advanced level. Entry is restricted, and selection is made from the applicants on the basis of their previous performance. Students taking this unit of study will participate in alternatives to some elements of the standard course and will be required to pursue the objectives by more independent means. Specific details of this unit of study and assessment will be announced in meetings with students at the beginning of the unit.
This intensive field-based course provides a practical introduction in the experimental analysis of terrestrial populations and assemblages. The experience is best suited to students who will continue into senior units of study in ecology. Students learn a broad range of ecological sampling techniques and develop a detailed understanding of the logical requirements necessary for manipulative ecological field experiments. The field work takes place in native forest and incorporates survey techniques for plants, small mammals and other fauna and thus provides a good background for ecological consulting work and an introduction into large-scale project management. Students attend a week-long field course and participate in a large-scale research project as part of a large team as well as conducting a research project that they design with a small group of students. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking in the context of environmental management and technical skills are developed in the area of data handling and analysis, report writing and team work. Invited experts contribute to the lectures and discussions on issues relating to the ecology, conservation and management of Australia's terrestrial flora and fauna.
BIOL2910 Intro to Tropical Wildlife Biology (Adv)

This unit of study is not available in 2018

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Matthew Greenlees Session: Intensive February Classes: One week intensive field trip to the Northern Territory plus one week intensive lecture and prac session at Sydney University. Prerequisites: An average of 75 or above in 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) Prohibitions: BIOL2010 or BIOL3010 or BIOL3910 Assessment: Practical exam (15%), Presentation (15%), Reports (30%), Theory exam (40%). Mode of delivery: Field experience Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: This unit cannot be combined with more than one other BIOL field unit during the degree. Entry into the unit is based on placement availability and selection is competitive based on academic performance in the pre-requisite units of study. Academic performance in any intermediate BIOL units of study may also be considered. The unit is only available in ODD years (2017, 2019), but students may apply for entry into an alternative intermediate field unit in EVEN years.
The content will be based on the standard unit BIOL2010 but qualified students will participate in alternative components at a more advanced level.The content and nature of these components may vary from year to year.Australia has a unique terrestrial vertebrate fauna. Because of Australia's unusual climate, landforms, and the rarity of many species, the management of our native wildlife presents special challenges for biologists, conservationists and land managers. This unit of study addresses the biogeography, ecology and management of Australia's terrestrial fauna, with a focus on the wet-dry tropical savannah woodlands. It comprises a one-week field trip at Mary River Park in the Northern Territory plus one week intensive lecture and prac session. The unit of study will provide students with an exciting, hands-on first experience of terrestrial field ecology. During the trip, students will learn how to carry out fauna surveys, how to identify animals, and how to track wildlife. Biologists working on a range of environmental issues in wet-dry tropical woodlands will present guest lectures to students during the field trip. Students will travel to other locations including Litchfield National Park on the last day to introduce them to the various habitats occurring in the Top End.
BIOL2920 Introduction to Coral Reef Biology (Adv)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Will Figueira Session: Intensive July Classes: 7-day intensive field course Prerequisites: An average of 75 or above in 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) Prohibitions: BIOL2020 or BIOL3016 or BIOL3916 Assumed knowledge: Basic experimental design and statistical analysis. Assessment: Two 1000-wd essays (2x10%), one 2000-wd field report designed specifically for the Advanced stream (40%), one 2-hour exam (40%) Mode of delivery: Field experience Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: This unit requires School permission to enrol; please see the School of Life and Environmental Sciences website for details on how to apply. Entry into the unit is based on placement availability and selection is competitive based on academic performance in the pre-requisite units of study. Academic performance in any intermediate BIOL units of study may also be considered.
The content will be based on the standard unit BIOL2020 but qualified students will participate in alternative components at a more advanced level. This unit covers the key biological organisms and processes in coral reef environments and linkages between them. Emphasis is given to corals, other reef associated invertebrates (e.g. echinoderms), plankton and fishes. Ecological and physiological aspects of key organisms are explored. Aspects covered include oceanography, biogeography, distribution of corals, coral bleaching and health, symbioses, the input of plankton to reefs, the role of fishes and invertebrate bio-eroders in reef environments, and impacts of environmental change on coral reef health. The unit is well suited to students with interests in marine science and ecology, environmental sciences and broader disciplines (e.g. education, arts, and environmental law).
Textbooks
Hutchings PA, O. Hoegh-Guldberg and M. J. Kingsford (eds) 2008 The Great Barrier Reef, Biology, Environment and Management. CSIRO Press. Hopley 2011 Encyclopedia of Modern Coral Reefs. Springer.
BIOL2921 Zoology (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Mathew Crowther Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures, one tutorial/lecture and one 3-hour practical per week. Prerequisites: Annual average mark of at least 70 in previous year Prohibitions: BIOL2021 or BIOL2011 or BIOL2911 or BIOL2012 or BIOL2912 Assumed knowledge: BIOL1XXX or MBLG1XXX Assessment: One 2-hour theory exam (50%), Lab book (15%), Invertebrate Collection (20%), Advanced poster presentation (15%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
The content of BIOL2921 will be based on BIOL2021 but qualified students will participate in alternative components at a more advanced level. The content and nature of these components may vary from year to year.
Textbooks
Recommended reading: Hickman CP, Roberts LS, Larson A, l'Anson H 2004. Integrated Principles of Zoology, 12th ed. McGraw Hill, NY. Withers, P. 1992 Comparative Animal Physiology. Saunders, New York
BIOL2922 Biol Experimental Design and Analysis Adv

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Clare McArthur Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures per week and one 3-hour practical per week. Prerequisites: [An annual average mark of at least 70 in the previous year] and [6cp from (BIOL1XXX or MBLG1XXX or ENVX1001 or ENVX1002 or DATA1001 or MATH1XX5)] Prohibitions: BIOL2022 or BIOL3006 or BIOL3906 Assumed knowledge: BIOL1XXX or MBLG1XXX Assessment: Practical reports/presentations (60%), one 2-hour exam (40%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
The content of BIOL2922 will be based on BIOL2022 but qualified students will participate in alternative components at a more advanced level. The content and nature of these components may vary from year to year.
Textbooks
Required: Ruxton, G. and Colegrave, N. 2016. Experimental design for the life sciences. 4th Ed. Oxford
BIOL2924 Ecology and Conservation (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Peter Banks Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures and one 3-hour practical per week. Prerequisites: An annual average mark of at least 70 in the previous year Prohibitions: BIOL2024 Assumed knowledge: BIOL1XXX or MBLG1XXX Assessment: Practical reports/presentations (50%), one 2-hour exam (50%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
The content of BIOL2924 will be based on BIOL2024 but qualified students will participate in alternative components at a more advanced level. The content and nature of these components may vary from year to year.
Textbooks
Recommended: Essentials of Ecology 4th edition (2014). Townsend, CR, Begon, M, Harper, JL . John
BIOL2928 Introduction to Marine Field Ecology Adv

This unit of study is not available in 2018

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Ross Coleman Session: Intensive July Classes: 8-day intensive field course Prerequisites: An average of 75 or above in 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) Prohibitions: BIOL2028 or BIOL3008 or BIOL3908 Assessment: In-class test on biodiversity (30%), review of a research paper (20%), practical reports/presentations (40%), record keeping and participation (10%). Mode of delivery: Field experience Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: This unit cannot be combined with more than one other BIOL field unit during the degree. Entry into the unit is based on placement availability and selection is competitive based on academic performance in the pre-requisite units of study. Academic performance in any intermediate BIOL units of study may also be considered. The unit is only available in ODD years (2015, 2017), but students may apply for entry into an alternative intermediate field unit in EVEN years.
The content of BIOL2928 will be based on BIOL2028 but qualified students will participate in alternative components at a more advanced level. The content and nature of these components may vary from year to year.
Textbooks
Recommended
BIOL2929 Cells (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Murray Thomson Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures; one 4-hour practical per week Prerequisites: A mark of at least 70 from (BIOL1XX7 or MBLG1XX1) Prohibitions: BIOL2016 or BIOL2916 orBIOL2029 Assessment: 3-hour theory exam (60%), quizzes (lectures and laboratory work) (10%), marks for laboratory work (10%), advanced report (20%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Cell biology is one of the most dynamic areas of modern research. During development, a single cell zygote must undergo numerous divisions to become a multi-cellular organism. In both plants and animals, cell-to-cell communication and coordination of the cell cycle, as well as cellular division and migration, are vital for normal development. Stem cells follow specialisation pathways to become increasingly committed to differentiation, and transformation into specialised cells that group together to form the variety of tissues that make up animals and plants. In this unit you will investigate, the diversity of cell types, how these different cells interact with each other, how the cell cycle is controlled as well as studying the roles of cellular movement, differentiation and interaction in reproduction and development. In Cells you will develop a deep understanding of the established knowledge base and develop research skills to extend this knowledge. Discussions will incorporate recent advances in cell research including the regenerative potential of stem cells and their use in treatments to replace damaged and diseased tissue. The advanced program, will provide you with an opportunity to complete an authentic research project in a specialized area of cell biology.
Textbooks
Alberts B., Johnson A., Lewis J., Raff M., Roberts K., Walter P. (2014) Molecular Biology of the Cell (Sixth edition). Garland Publishing Inc., New York and London (ISBN-9780815344643)
BIOL2930 Botany (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Rosanne Quinnell Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures/week; one 3-hour practical/week; a series of five 1-hour tutorial/week in the latter part of the semester Prerequisites: Annual average mark of at least 70 in previous year Prohibitions: BIOL2023 or BIOL2923 or AGEN2001 or PLNT2001 or PLNT2901 or PLNT2002 or PLNT2902 or PLNT2003 or PLNT2903 or AGEN2005 or BIOL2030 Assumed knowledge: Knowledge of concepts and skills in BIOL1XX6. Assessment: Online quizzes (15%), advanced project report (20%), practical exam (30%), theory exam (35%) Practical field work: null Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
We are surrounded by plants, and rely on them every day for our wellbeing. Ecologists use botanical knowledge to help manage marine and terrestrial ecosystems, and public health and land management professionals depend on their understanding of plant science to help solve environmental problems and to inform biosecurity. Botany aims to increase and improve our supply of medicines, foods, and other plant products, and is critical for anyone interested in contributing to the sustainable future of our planet. In this unit, you will explore the origins, diversity, and global significance of plants. You will gain insights into the micro- and macro-evolutionary processes and patterns behind how plants moved from aquatic ecosystems to terrestrial ecosystems. Integrated lectures, practical classes and extensive online resources will allow you to develop and integrate practical skills and conceptual frameworks in plant identification, and plant physiology, morphology and anatomy. Lectures and practical classes are augmented by discussions to foster a sense of self-reliance and collaboration. The Advanced Botany unit of study requires engagement at a high standard of academic rigour and affords opportunities to engage with core aspect of Botany at depth and to create new knowledge. In partnership with academic staff advanced students will undertake an independent research project, which will develop skills in research and communication.
Textbooks
Attwell BJ, Kriedeman PE, Turnbull CGN. 1999. Plants In Action. Macmillan, South Yarra. (Australian Plant Biology with a good section on ecophysiology).
BIOL2931 Plants and Environment (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Brent Kaiser Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures/week; one 4-hour practical/week Prerequisites: Annual average mark of at least 70 in previous year Prohibitions: AGEN2005 or BIOL3043 or BIOL3943 or BIOL2031 Assumed knowledge: Knowledge of concepts and skills in BIOL1XX6. Assessment: On-line quiz (20%), lab assignment (15%), independent project (15%), exam (50%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Plants grow across a range of environments, which influence form, function and ultimately reproductive success. Being sessile, plants lack the luxury of seeking an alternative 'stress-free lifestyle' and therefore rely on genetic and physical adaptations to help survive and reproduce. To understand how a plant can achieve such flexibility requires an understanding of plant structure and the influence that environmental drivers have on plant growth and function. In this unit, you will examine the physiological processes controlling plant growth and reproduction linked to environmental constraints. You will understand the relationship between tissue and cellular structure and their underlying role in physiological and metabolic activities, particularly processes involving light capture, photosynthesis, water regulation, nutrient management and metabolite redistribution. Lectures and interactive practicals will together introduce you to plant processes that we commonly depend upon for food production, and plant related materials. Experimentation and analysis of plant physiological processes will develop a skill base that will lead to a greater understanding and appreciation of common plant processes that guide plant growth. As a component of the Plant Science minor, this unit will provide an important platform to extend your interests in plant science and plant-related fields, including ecology, cell biology, genetics, breeding, agriculture, molecular biology, environmental law, education and the arts. The advanced unit has the same overall concepts as BIOL2031 but material is discussed in a manner that offers a greater level of challenge and academic rigour. Students enrolled in BIOL2931 participate in alternative components, which include a separate lecture and practical stream. The content and nature of these components may vary from year to year.
Textbooks
Resources required by the unit will be provided on the Blackboard learning management page for the unit. Taiz, L. and Zeiger, E. (2010) Plant Physiology, Fifth Edition. Sinauer Associates. Sunderland, MA.
ENSC2001 Environmental Monitoring

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Feike Dijkstra Session: Semester 1 Classes: One 2-hour lecture per week; one 3-hour computer/laboratory practical per week; one 1-hour tutorial every other week Prohibitions: AGCH3033 Assumed knowledge: Understanding of scientific principles and concepts including biodiversity, human impacts on the environment, properties of substances (e.g., acidity, alkalinity, solvents) and basic knowledge of statistics. Assessment: Group presentation (10%), quiz (10%), lab reports (30%), final exam (50%) Practical field work: Two half-day field trips Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Human population growth is causing irreversible change to almost all environments on earth. The extent of human change has been so great that a new geological epoch, the anthropocene, has been defined. Global warming, the introduction of pollutants and excessive use of nutrients are stressors affecting the biodiversity and resilience of ecosystems, and pose threats to human and environmental health. These human impacts carefully need to be monitored to guide appropriate management of urban, natural and agricultural systems. In this unit you will learn about transport pathways of pollutants, bioaccumulation, environmental toxicology (e.g., LD50 values), environmental monitoring and remediation techniques. Through lectures, laboratories and group work, concepts and methods of environmental monitoring will be illustrated and discussed including findings from the latest research. You will participate in structured practical exercises and field trips where you will apply sampling techniques, use bio-indicators and diversity indices to monitor ecosystem functioning. You will interpret the results and assess what the implications are for the ecological functioning and sustainable management of the environment. These hands-on exercises will be complemented with case-studies to guide you in critically analysing and evaluating environmental monitoring data. By taking this unit, you will acquire the necessary skills and knowledge in monitoring sites impacted by human activity.
Textbooks
Artiola, Pepper, and Brusseau. 2004. Environmental Monitoring and Characterization. Elsevier Academic Press.
ENVX2001 Applied Statistical Methods

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Floris Van Ogtrop Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week, one 3-hour computer practical per week Prerequisites: [6cp from (ENVX1001 or ENVX1002 or BIOM1003 or MATH1011 or MATH1015 or DATA1001)] OR [3cp from (MATH1XX1 or MATH1906 or MATH1XX3 or MATH1907) and an additional 3cp from (MATH1XX5)] Assessment: One exam during the exam period (50%),three reports (10% each), ten online quizzes (2% each) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Available as a degree core unit only in the Agriculture, Animal and Veterinary Bioscience, and Food and Agribusiness streams
This unit builds on introductory 1st year statistics units and is targeted towards students in the agricultural, life and environmental sciences. It consists of two parts and presents, in an applied manner, the statistical methods that students need to know for further study and their future careers. In the first part the focus is on designed studies including both surveys and formal experimental designs. Students will learn how to analyse and interpret datasets collected from designs from more than than 2 treatment levels, multiple factors and different blocking designs. In the second part the focus is on finding patterns in data. In this part the students will learn to model relationships between response and predictor variables using regression, and find patterns in datasets with many variables using principal components analysis and clustering. This part provides the foundation for the analysis of big data. In the practicals the emphasis is on applying theory to analysing real datasets using the statistical software package R. A key feature of the unit is using R to develop coding skills that are become essential in science for processing and analysing datasets of ever increasing size.
Textbooks
No textbooks are recommended but useful reference books are:
GEGE2001 Genetics and Genomics

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Peter Sharp Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures; one 3-hour practical session; and one peer assisted study session on a weekly basis Prohibitions: GENE2002 or MBLG2972 or GEGE2901 or MBLG2072 Assumed knowledge: Mendellian genetics, mechanisms of evolution, molecular and chromosomal bases of inheritance, and gene regulation and expression. Assessment: Assignments, quizzes, presentation, final exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
The era of genomics has revolutionised our approach to biology. Recent breakthroughs in genetics and genomic technologies have led to improvements in human and animal health, in breeding and selection of economically important organisms and in the curation and care of wild species and complex ecosystems. In this unit, students will investigate/describe ways in which modern biology uses genetics and genomics to study life, from the unicellular through to complex multicellular organisms and their interactions in communities and ecosystems. This unit includes a solid foundation in classical Mendelian genetics and its extensions into quantitative and population genetics. It also examines how our ability to sequence whole genomes has changed our capacities and our understanding of biology. Links between DNA, phenotype and the performance of organisms and ecosystems will be highlighted. The unit will examine the profound insights that modern molecular techniques have enabled in the fields of developmental biology, gene regulation, population genetics and molecular evolution.
GEGE2901 Genetics and Genomics (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Peter Sharp Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures; one 3-hour practical session; and one peer assisted study session on a weekly basis Prerequisites: Annual average mark of at least 70 Prohibitions: GENE2002 or MBLG2072 or GEGE2001 or MBLG2972 Assumed knowledge: Mendellian genetics, mechanisms of evolution, molecular and chromosomal bases of inheritance, and gene regulation and expression. Assessment: Assignments, quizzes, presentation, final exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
The era of genomics has revolutionised our approach to biology. Recent breakthroughs in genetics and genomic technologies have led to improvements in human and animal health, in breeding and selection of economically important organisms and in the curation and care of wild species and complex ecosystems. In this unit, students will investigate/describe ways in which modern biology uses genetics and genomics to study life, from the unicellular through to complex multicellular organisms and their interactions in communities and ecosystems. This unit includes a solid foundation in classical Mendelian genetics and its extensions into quantitative and population genetics. It also examines how our ability to sequence whole genomes has changed our capacities and our understanding of biology. Links between DNA, phenotype and the performance of organisms and ecosystems will be highlighted. The unit will examine the profound insights that modern molecular techniques have enabled in the fields of developmental biology, gene regulation, population genetics and molecular evolution. The Advanced mode of Genetics and Genomics will provide you with challenge and a higher level of academic rigour. You will have the opportunity to plan and carry out a project that will develop your skills in contemporary genetics/molecular biology techniques and will provide you with a greater depth of disciplinary understanding. The Advanced mode will culminate in a written report and in an oral presentation where you will discuss a recent breakthrough that has been enabled by the use of modern genetics and genomics technologies. This is a unit for anyone wanting to better understand the how genetics has shaped the earth and how it will shape the future.
Textbooks
TBA
MICR2022 Microbes in Society

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Helen Agus Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week, plus an additional four 1-hour tutorials per semester. Eleven 3-hour practicals per semester Prerequisites: 6cp from (BIOL1XX7 or MBLG1XXX) and an additional 6cp from BIOL1XXX Prohibitions: MICR2922 or BMED2401 or BMED2402 or BMED2403 or BMED2404 or BMED2405 or BMED2406 or BMED2801 or BMED2802 or BMED2803 or BMED2804 or BMED2805 or BMED2806 or BMED2807 or BMED2808 Assumed knowledge: CHEM1XXX and (MICR2X21 or MICR2024 or MICR2X31) Assessment: Theory (60%): One 2-hour theory exam; Practical (40%): continuous assessment in practicals, two assignments, one quiz, one practical exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: This unit is not available to BMedSc students. This unit is not offered from 2019.
Pathogenic microbes cause infectious diseases of humans, animals and plants, and inflict enormous suffering and economic losses. Beneficial microbes are important contributors to food production, agriculture, biotechnology, and environmental processes. The aims of MICR2022/2922 are to explore the impacts and applications of microbes in human society and in the environment at large, and to teach skills and specialist knowledge in several key areas of microbiology. Medical Microbiology lectures will cover bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens, and will introduce the concepts of epidemiology, transmission, pathogenicity, virulence factors, host/parasite relationships, host defences, prevention of disease, and antibiotic types, functions, and resistance. Lecture topics in other areas include Food (preservation, spoilage, poisoning, industrial context), Industrial (fermentation, traditional and recombinant products, bioprospecting), Environmental (nutrient cycles, atmosphere, wastewater, pollution, biodegradation) and Agricultural (nitrogen fixation, plant pathogens, biocontrol) microbiology. The laboratory sessions are integrated with the lecture series and are designed to give students practical experience in isolating, identifying and manipulating live potentially pathogenic microorganisms.
Textbooks
Willey et al. Prescott's Microbiology. 10th edition. McGraw-Hill. 2016.
MICR2031 Microbiology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Michael Kertesz Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week; one 3-hour practical per week; three tutorial sessions Prohibitions: MICR2021 or MICR2921 or MICR2024 or MICR2931 Assumed knowledge: Fundamental concepts of microorganisms, biomolecules and ecosystems; CHEM1XX1 Assessment: Theory 60%: one 45-minute mid-semester theory exam (20%) and one 1.5-hour theory exam (40%); Practical 40%: one written assignment (15%), one group oral presentation (10%) and online quizzes (15%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Microbes are essential for every aspect of life on the planet. Microbes in the human gut control our digestion and our immune system, microbes in the soil are required for plant growth, microbes in the ocean fix more carbon dioxide than all the earth's trees. This unit of study will investigate the diversity and activity of microorganisms - viruses, bacteria, fungi, algae and protozoa - and look at how they interact with us, each other, plants and animals. You will examine how microbes underpin healthy ecosystems through nutrient cycling and biodegradation, their use industrially in biotechnology and food production, and their ability to cause harm, producing disease, poisoning, pollution and spoilage. Aspects of microbial ecology, nutrition, physiology and genetics will also be introduced. This unit of study will provide you with the breadth of knowledge and skills needed for further studies of microbiology, and will provide the fundamental understanding of microbes that you will require if you specialise in related fields such as biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology, agriculture, nutrition and food sciences, bioengineering and biotechnology, ecology or science education.
Textbooks
Willey et al, Prescott¿s Microbiology, 10th edition, McGraw-Hill, 2017
MICR2922 Microbes in Society (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Helen Agus Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week, plus an additional four 1-hour tutorials, three 1-hour seminars and eleven 3-hour practicals per semester Prerequisites: 6cp from (BIOL1XX7 or MBLG1XXX) and an additional 6cp from BIOL1XXX and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from (BIOL1XXX or MBLG1XXX) Prohibitions: MICR2022 or BMED2401 or BMED2402 or BMED2403 or BMED2404 or BMED2405 or BMED2406 or BMED2801 or BMED2802 or BMED2803 or BMED2804 or BMED2805 or BMED2806 or BMED2807 or BMED2808 Assumed knowledge: CHEM1XXX and (MICR2X21 or MICR2024 or MICR2X31) Assessment: Theory (60%): One 2-hour theory exam; Practical (40%): continuous assessment in practicals, one assignment, one quiz, one practical exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: This unit is not available to BMedSc students. This unit is not offered from 2019.
This unit of study is based on MICR2022. A science communication exercise is unique to MICR2922 and consists of three small group sessions exploring how recent advances in microbiology are communicated to the wider public. This advanced component replaces one assignment exercise from the practical class and is assessed as short essay. The content and nature of this component is based on recent publications with potential high impact for society.
Textbooks
Willey et al. Prescott's Microbiology. 10th edition. McGraw-Hill. 2016.
MICR2931 Microbiology (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Michael Kertesz Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week; one 3-hour practical per week; three tutorial sessions Prerequisites: A mark of 70 or above in 6cp from (BIOL1XXX or MBLG1XXX) Prohibitions: MICR2021 or MICR2921 or MICR2024 or MICR2031 Assumed knowledge: Fundamental concepts of microorganisms, biomolecules and ecosystems; CHEM1XX1 Assessment: Theory 60%: one 45 minute mid-semester theory exam (20%) and one 1.5-hour theory exam (40%); Practical 40%: two written assignments (10%, 15%), and online quizzes (15%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Microbes are essential for every aspect of life on the planet. Microbes in the human gut control our digestion and our immune system, microbes in the soil are required for plant growth, microbes in the ocean fix more carbon dioxide than all the Earth's trees. In this unit of study you will investigate the diversity and activity of microorganisms - viruses, bacteria, fungi, algae and protozoa - and look at how they interact with us, each other, plants and animals. You will examine how microbes underpin healthy ecosystems through nutrient cycling and biodegradation, their use industrially in biotechnology and food production, and their ability to cause harm, producing disease, poisoning, pollution and spoilage. Detailed aspects of microbial ecology, nutrition, physiology and genetics will also be introduced. This unit of study will provide you with the breadth of knowledge and skills needed for further studies of microbiology, and will provide the fundamental understanding of microbes that you will require to specialise in related fields such as biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology, agriculture, nutrition and food sciences, bioengineering and biotechnology, ecology, or science education. As an Advanced unit, MICR2931 provides increased challenge and academic rigour to develop a greater understanding and depth of disciplinary expertise. You will actively participate in a series of small group tutorials investigating the molecular detail of microbial communication and function, which will culminate in you creating a scientific research report that communicates your understanding of recent research in microbiology.
Textbooks
Willey et al, Prescott¿s Microbiology, 10th edition, McGraw-Hill, 2017
QBIO2001 Molecular Systems Biology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof David James (Coordinator), Dr Mark Larance Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures; one 3-hour practical session on a weekly basis Assumed knowledge: Metabolism, protein synthesis, gene regulation, quantitative and statistical skills Assessment: One 3-hour final exam (50%), three 45-minute quizzes (20%), one 5-minute presentation (10%), laboratory assessment and practical book (20%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Experimental approaches to the study of biological systems are shifting from hypothesis driven to hypothesis generating research. Large scale experiments at the molecular scale are producing enormous quantities of data ("Big Data") that need to be analysed to derive significant biological meaning. For example, monitoring the abundance of tens of thousands of proteins simultaneously promises ground-breaking discoveries. In this unit, you will develop specific analytical skills required to work with data obtained in the biological and medical sciences. The unit covers quantitative analysis of biological systems at the molecular scale including modelling and visualizing patterns using differential equations, experimental design and data types to understand disease aetiology. You will also use methods to model cellular systems including metabolism, gene regulation and signalling. The practical program will enable you to generate data analysis workflows, and gain a deep understanding of the statistical, informatics and modelling tools currently being used in the field. To leverage multiple types of expertise, the computer lab-based practical component of this unit will be predominantly a team-based collaborative learning environment. Upon completion of this unit, you will have gained skills to find meaningful solutions to difficult biological and disease-related problems with the potential to change our lives.
Textbooks
An Introduction to Systems Biology: Design Principles of Biological Circuits, Uri Alon, (Chapman and Hall/CRC, 2007). Systems Biology, Edda Klipp, Wolfram Liebermeister, Christoph Wierling, Axel Kowald, Hans Lehrach, and Ralf Herwig, (Wiley-Blackhall, 2009). Molecular biology of the cell, Alberts B et al (6th edition, Garland Science, 2015) Discovering Statistics Using R, Andy Field (2012, SAGE Publications Ltd). Computational and Statistical Methods for Protein Quantitation by Mass Spectrometry, Martens L et al (Wiley, 2013)
SOIL2004 The Soil Resource

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Stephen Cattle Session: Semester 2 Classes: (2x1 hr lec, 1x2 hr pracs)/wk, 25 hr (5 days) fieldtrip in the week immediately preceding the start of Semester 2 (Week O) Assessment: Fieldtrip participation (5%), soil survey mapping report (35%), laboratory report and poster presentation (20%), group tutorials (15%), viva voce exam (25%) Practical field work: Computer and laboratory practical sessions; 5-day fieldtrip Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit will familiarise students with the description and mapping of soil types in the Australian landscape, with common analytical methods for soil and with the various forms of degradation that may alter the quality and function of soil. It is an applied soil science unit that builds on the fundamental soil science concepts learned in the SOIL2003 unit. The first practical component of the unit, a five-day soil survey, will give students experience in soil description and classification in the field, and soil samples collected during this survey will be subsequently analysed for a variety of attributes by the students in laboratory practicals. In the lecture series, topics including soil type distribution, soil quality, soil function, soil fertility and soil degradation will be discussed and linked to practical sessions. By the end of this unit, students will be able to construct maps of soil properties and soil type distribution, describe primary soil functions, soil attributes and types of soil degradation in an agricultural context, and be able to recognize and communicate the ability of a soil profile to sustain plant growth. Students will gain research and inquiry skills by collecting, analysing and interpreting soil survey data, and will gain communication skills by having to prepare and present a poster.
SOIL2005 Soil and Water: Earth's Life Support Systems

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Balwant Singh Session: Semester 1 Classes: Lectures: 3 hours per week; lab: 3 hours per week for 10 weeks Prohibitions: SOIL2003 or LWSC2002 Assessment: Field excursion: attendance and creative assessment (5%), the attendance at the excursion is complusory to get any mark for this assessment task; quiz: (10%); written assignment: modelling assessment including modelling (15%); laboratory report: group oral presentation and written assignment (20%); final exam: final written exam (50%) Practical field work: Approximately eight hours working field at Cobbitty Farm Wk 0 (Friday, 2 March 2018) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Soil and water are the two most essential natural resources on the Earth's surface which influence all forms of terrestrial life. This unit of study is designed to introduce students to the fundamental properties and processes of soil and water that affect food security and sustain ecosystems. These properties and processes are part of the grounding principles that underpin crop and animal production, nutrient and water cycling, and environmental sustainability. You will participate in a field excursion to examine soils in a landscape to develop knowledge and understanding of soil properties, water storage, water movement and cycling of organic carbon and nutrients in relation to food production and ecosystem functioning. At the end of this unit you will be able to articulate and quantify the factors and processes that determine the composition and behaviour of soil, composition of water, soil water storage and the movement of water on the land surface. You will also be able to describe the most important properties of soil and water for food production and sustaining ecosystem functions and link this to human and climatic factors. The field excursion, report and laboratory/computer exercises have been designed to develop communication, team work and collaborative efforts.
Textbooks
Brady, N.C. and Ray R. Weil. (2007). The Nature and Properties of Soils. 14th Edition, Prentice Hall, New Jersey. White, R.E. (2006) Principles and Practice of Soil Science: the Soil as a Natural Resource. 4th ed., Blackwell Science, Oxford. Diana H. Wall, Richard D. Bardgett, Valerie Behan-Pelletier, Jeffrey E. Herrick, T. Hefin Jones, Karl Ritz, Johan Six, Donald R. Strong, and Wim H. van der Putten (Eds.) (2012). Soil Ecology and Ecosystem Services. Oxford University Press, ISBN: 9780199575923. Kutllek, M and Nielsen, D.R. (2015). Soil: The Skin of the Planet Earth, Springer, ISBN: 978-94-017-9788-7 (Print) 978-94-017-9789-4 (Online). Gordon, N. D., McMahon, T. A., Finlayson, B. L., Gippel, C. J., and Nathan, R. J. (2004) Stream Hydrology: an Introduction for Ecologists, John Wiley and Sons Inc.
Mathematics
1000-level units of study
DATA1001 Foundations of Data Science

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Di Warren Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: lecture 3 hrs/week; computer tutorial 2 hr/week Prohibitions: MATH1005 or MATH1905 or MATH1015 or MATH1115 or ENVX1001 or ENVX1002 or ECMT1010 or BUSS1020 or STAT1021 Assessment: assignments, quizzes, presentation, exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
DATA1001 is a foundational unit in the Data Science major. The unit focuses on developing critical and statistical thinking skills for all students. Does mobile phone usage increase the incidence of brain tumours? What is the public's attitude to shark baiting following a fatal attack? Statistics is the science of decision making, essential in every industry and undergirds all research which relies on data. Students will use problems and data from the physical, health, life and social sciences to develop adaptive problem solving skills in a team setting. Taught interactively with embedded technology, DATA1001 develops critical thinking and skills to problem-solve with data. It is the prerequisite for DATA2002.
Textbooks
Statistics, Fourth Edition, Freedman Pisani Purves
MATH1002 Linear Algebra

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 1,Summer Main Classes: Two 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week. Prohibitions: MATH1012 or MATH1014 or MATH1902 Assumed knowledge: HSC Mathematics or MATH1111. Students who have not completed HSC Mathematics (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Mathematics Bridging Course (offered in February). Assessment: One 1.5 hour examination, assignments and quizzes (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
MATH1002 is designed to provide a thorough preparation for further study in mathematics and statistics. It is a core unit of study providing three of the twelve credit points required by the Faculty of Science as well as a Junior level requirement in the Faculty of Engineering.
This unit of study introduces vectors and vector algebra, linear algebra including solutions of linear systems, matrices, determinants, eigenvalues and eigenvectors.
Textbooks
As set out in the Junior Mathematics Handbook
MATH1004 Discrete Mathematics

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 2,Summer Main Classes: Two 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week. Prohibitions: MATH1904 or MATH1064 or MATH2011 Assumed knowledge: HSC Mathematics or MATH1111. Students who have not completed HSC Mathematics (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Mathematics Bridging Course (offered in February). Assessment: One 1.5 hour examination, assignments and quizzes (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
MATH1004 is designed to provide a thorough preparation for further study in Mathematics.
This unit provides an introduction to fundamental aspects of discrete mathematics, which deals with 'things that come in chunks that can be counted'. It focuses on the enumeration of a set of numbers, viz. Catalan numbers. Topics include sets and functions, counting principles, discrete probability, Boolean expressions, mathematical induction, linear recurrence relations, graphs and trees.
Textbooks
As set out in the Junior Mathematics Handbook
MATH1005 Statistical Thinking with Data

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 2,Summer Main,Winter Main Classes: Lectures 2 hrs/week; Practical 1 hr/week Prohibitions: MATH1015 or MATH1905 or STAT1021 or STAT1022 or ECMT1010 or ENVX1001 or ENVX1002 or BUSS1020 Assumed knowledge: HSC Mathematics. Students who have not completed HSC Mathematics (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Mathematics Bridging Course (offered in February). Assessment: One 1.5 hour examination, assignments and quizzes (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
In a data-rich world, global citizens need to problem solve with data, and evidence based decision-making is essential is every field of research and work.
This unit equips you with the foundational statistical thinking to become a critical consumer of data. You will learn to think analytically about data and to evaluate the validity and accuracy of any conclusions drawn. Focusing on statistical literacy, the unit covers foundational statistical concepts, including the design of experiments, exploratory data analysis, sampling and tests of significance.
Textbooks
Freedman, Pisani and Purves, Statistics, Norton, 2007
MATH1011 Applications of Calculus

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 1,Summer Main Classes: Two 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week. Prohibitions: MATH1001 or MATH1901 or MATH1906 or MATH1111 or BIOM1003 or ENVX1001 or MATH1021 or MATH1921 or MATH1931 Assumed knowledge: HSC Mathematics. Students who have not completed HSC Mathematics (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Mathematics Bridging Course (offered in February). Please note: this unit does not normally lead to a major in Mathematics or Statistics or Financial Mathematics and Statistics. Assessment: One 1.5 hour examination, assignments and quizzes (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit is designed for science students who do not intend to undertake higher year mathematics and statistics. It establishes and reinforces the fundamentals of calculus, illustrated where possible with context and applications. Specifically, it demonstrates the use of (differential) calculus in solving optimisation problems and of (integral) calculus in measuring how a system accumulates over time. Topics studied include the fitting of data to various functions, the interpretation and manipulation of periodic functions and the evaluation of commonly occurring summations. Differential calculus is extended to functions of two variables and integration techniques include integration by substitution and the evaluation of integrals of infinite type.
Textbooks
As set out in the Junior Mathematics Handbook
MATH1013 Mathematical Modelling

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 2,Summer Main Classes: Two 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week. Prohibitions: MATH1003 or MATH1903 or MATH1907 or MATH1023 or MATH1923 or MATH1933 Assumed knowledge: HSC Mathematics or a credit or higher in MATH1111. Students who have not completed HSC Mathematics (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Mathematics Bridging Course (offered in February). Please note: this unit does not normally lead to a major in Mathematics or Statistics or Financial Mathematics and Statistics. Assessment: One 1.5 hour examination, assignments and quizzes (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
MATH1013 is designed for science students who do not intend to undertake higher year mathematics and statistics.
In this unit of study students learn how to construct, interpret and solve simple differential equations and recurrence relations. Specific techniques include separation of variables, partial fractions and first and second order linear equations with constant coefficients. Students are also shown how to iteratively improve approximate numerical solutions to equations.
Textbooks
As set out in the Junior Mathematics Handbook
MATH1014 Introduction to Linear Algebra

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week. Prohibitions: MATH1012 or MATH1002 or MATH1902 Assumed knowledge: HSC Mathematics or MATH1111. Students who have not completed HSC Mathematics (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Mathematics Bridging Course (offered in February). Please note: this unit does not normally lead to a major in Mathematics or Statistics or Financial Mathematics and Statistics. Assessment: One 1.5 hour exam, assignments, quizzes (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit is an introduction to Linear Algebra. Topics covered include vectors, systems of linear equations, matrices, eigenvalues and eigenvectors. Applications in life and technological sciences are emphasised.
Textbooks
As set out in the Junior Mathematics Handbook.
MATH1015 Biostatistics

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week. Prohibitions: MATH1005 or MATH1905 or STAT1021 or STAT1022 or ECMT1010 or BIOM1003 or ENVX1001 or ENVX1002 or BUSS1020 Assumed knowledge: HSC Mathematics. Students who have not completed HSC Mathematics (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Mathematics Bridging Course (offered in February). Assessment: One 1.5 hour examination, assignments and quizzes (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
MATH1015 is designed to provide a thorough preparation in statistics for students in the Biological and Medical Sciences. It offers a comprehensive introduction to data analysis, probability and sampling, inference including t-tests, confidence intervals and chi-squared goodness of fit tests.
Textbooks
As set out in the Junior Mathematics Handbook
MATH1021 Calculus Of One Variable

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2x1-hr lectures; 1x1-hr tutorial per week Prohibitions: MATH1011 or MATH1901 or MATH1906 or MATH1111 or ENVX1001 or MATH1001 or MATH1921 or MATH1931 Assumed knowledge: HSC Mathematics Extension 1. Students who have not completed HSC Extension 1 Mathematics (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Extension 1 Mathematics Bridging Course (offered in February). Assessment: exam, quizzes, assignments Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Calculus is a discipline of mathematics that finds profound applications in science, engineering, and economics. This unit investigates differential calculus and integral calculus of one variable and the diverse applications of this theory. Emphasis is given both to the theoretical and foundational aspects of the subject, as well as developing the valuable skill of applying the mathematical theory to solve practical problems. Topics covered in this unit of study include complex numbers, functions of a single variable, limits and continuity, differentiation, optimisation, Taylor polynomials, Taylor's Theorem, Taylor series, Riemann sums, and Riemann integrals.
Textbooks
As set out in the Junior Mathematics Handbook.
MATH1023 Multivariable Calculus and Modelling

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2x1-hr lectures; 1x1-hr tutorial per week Prohibitions: MATH1013 or MATH1903 or MATH1907 or MATH1003 or MATH1923 or MATH1933 Assumed knowledge: HSC Mathematics Extension 1. Students who have not completed HSC Extension 1 Mathematics (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Extension 1 Mathematics Bridging Course (offered in February). Assessment: exam, quizzes, assignments Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Calculus is a discipline of mathematics that finds profound applications in science, engineering, and economics. This unit investigates multivariable differential calculus and modelling. Emphasis is given both to the theoretical and foundational aspects of the subject, as well as developing the valuable skill of applying the mathematical theory to solve practical problems. Topics covered in this unit of study include mathematical modelling, first order differential equations, second order differential equations, systems of linear equations, visualisation in 2 and 3 dimensions, partial derivatives, directional derivatives, the gradient vector, and optimisation for functions of more than one variable.
Textbooks
As set out in the Junior Mathematics Handbook
MATH1064 Discrete Mathematics for Computation

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: lecture 3 hrs/week; tutorial 1 hr/week; prac class 1hr/week Prohibitions: MATH1004 or MATH1904 Assessment: assignment, quizzes, exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit introduces students to the language and key methods of the area of Discrete Mathematics. The focus is on mathematical concepts in discrete mathematics and their applications, with an emphasis on computation. For instance, to specify a computational problem precisely one needs to give an abstract formulation using mathematical objects such as sets, functions, relations, orders, and sequences. In order to prove that a proposed solution is correct, one needs to apply the principles of mathematical logic, and to use proof techniques such as induction. To reason about the efficiency of an algorithm, one often needs to estimate the growth of functions or count the size of complex mathematical objects. This unit provides the necessary mathematical background for such applications of discrete mathematics. Students will be introduced to mathematical logic and proof techniques; sets, functions, relations, orders, and sequences; counting and discrete probability; asymptotic growth; and basic graph theory.
Textbooks
As set out in the Junior Mathematics Handbook.
MATH1115 Interrogating Data

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 1,Semester 2,Winter Main Classes: 2-hr lab; and 1x1-hr lecture per week Prerequisites: MATH1005 or MATH1015 Prohibitions: DATA1001 or STAT1021 or ECMT1010 or ENVX1001 or BUSS1020 or ENVX1002 or MATH1905 Assessment: projects/presentations, final exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
In a data-rich world, global citizens need to problem solve with data, and evidence based decision-making is essential is every field of research and work. This unit equips you with foundational statistical thinking to interrogate data. Focusing on statistical literacy, the unit covers foundational statistical concepts such as visualising data, the linear regression model, and testing significance using the t and chi-square tests. Based on a flipped learning approach, you will experience most of your learning in weekly collaborative 2 hour labs, supplemented by 1 hour lectures. Working in teams, you will explore three real data stories across different domains, with associated literature. The combination of MATH1005/1015 and MATH1115 is equivalent to DATA1001, allowing you to pathway to the Data Science, Statistics, or Quantitative Life Sciences majors.
Textbooks
Freedman, Pisani and Purves, Statistics, 2007
MATH1902 Linear Algebra (Advanced)

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week. Prohibitions: MATH1002 or MATH1012 or MATH1014 Assumed knowledge: (HSC Mathematics Extension 2) OR (90 or above in HSC Mathematics Extension 1) or equivalent Assessment: One 1.5 hour examination, assignments and quizzes (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This unit is designed to provide a thorough preparation for further study in mathematics and statistics. It is a core unit of study providing three of the twelve credit points required by the Faculty of Science as well as a Junior level requirement in the Faculty of Engineering. It parallels the normal unit MATH1002 but goes more deeply into the subject matter and requires more mathematical sophistication.
Textbooks
As set out in the Junior Mathematics Handbook
MATH1904 Discrete Mathematics (Advanced)

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week. Prohibitions: MATH1004 or MATH1064 or MATH2011 Assumed knowledge: HSC Mathematics Extension 1. Students who have not completed HSC Extension 1 Mathematics (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Extension 1 Mathematics Bridging Course (offered in February). Assessment: exam, quizzes, assignments Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This unit is designed to provide a thorough preparation for further study in mathematics. It parallels the normal unit MATH1004 but goes more deeply into the subject matter and requires more mathematical sophistication.
Textbooks
As set out in the Junior Mathematics Handbook
MATH1905 Statistical Thinking with Data (Advanced)

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week. Prohibitions: MATH1005 or MATH1015 or STAT1021 or STAT1022 or ECMT1010 or ENVX1001 or ENVX1002 or BUSS1020 Assumed knowledge: (HSC Mathematics Extension 2) OR (90 or above in HSC Mathematics Extension 1) or equivalent Assessment: One 1.5 hour examination, assignments and quizzes (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This unit is designed to provide a thorough preparation for further study in mathematics and statistics. It is a core unit of study providing three of the twelve credit points required by the Faculty of Science as well as a Junior level requirement in the Faculty of Engineering. This Advanced level unit of study parallels the normal unit MATH1005 but goes more deeply into the subject matter and requires more mathematical sophistication.
Textbooks
As set out in the Junior Mathematics Handbook
MATH1921 Calculus Of One Variable (Advanced)

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2x1-hr lectures; and 1x1-hr tutorial per week Prohibitions: MATH1001 or MATH1011 or MATH1906 or MATH1111 or ENVX1001 or MATH1901 or MATH1021 or MATH1931 Assumed knowledge: (HSC Mathematics Extension 2) OR (Band E4 in HSC Mathematics Extension 1) or equivalent. Assessment: exam, quizzes, assignments Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Calculus is a discipline of mathematics that finds profound applications in science, engineering, and economics. This unit investigates differential calculus and integral calculus of one variable and the diverse applications of this theory. Emphasis is given both to the theoretical and foundational aspects of the subject, as well as developing the valuable skill of applying the mathematical theory to solve practical problems. Topics covered in this unit of study include complex numbers, functions of a single variable, limits and continuity, differentiation, optimisation, Taylor polynomials, Taylor's Theorem, Taylor series, Riemann sums, and Riemann integrals. Additional theoretical topics included in this advanced unit include the Intermediate Value Theorem, Rolle's Theorem, and the Mean Value Theorem.
Textbooks
As set out in the Junior Mathematics Handbook
MATH1923 Multivariable Calculus and Modelling (Adv)

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2x1-hr lectures; and 1x1-hr tutorial per week Prohibitions: MATH1003 or MATH1013 or MATH1907 or MATH1903 or MATH1023 or MATH1933 Assumed knowledge: (HSC Mathematics Extension 2) OR (Band E4 in HSC Mathematics Extension 1) or equivalent. Assessment: exam, quizzes, assignments Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Calculus is a discipline of mathematics that finds profound applications in science, engineering, and economics. This unit investigates multivariable differential calculus and modelling. Emphasis is given both to the theoretical and foundational aspects of the subject, as well as developing the valuable skill of applying the mathematical theory to solve practical problems. Topics covered in this unit of study include mathematical modelling, first order differential equations, second order differential equations, systems of linear equations, visualisation in 2 and 3 dimensions, partial derivatives, directional derivatives, the gradient vector, and optimisation for functions of more than one variable. Additional topics covered in this advanced unit of study include the use of diagonalisation of matrices to study systems of linear equation and optimisation problems, limits of functions of two or more variables, and the derivative of a function of two or more variables.
Textbooks
As set out in the Junior Mathematics Handbook
MATH1931 Calculus Of One Variable (SSP)

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2x1-hr lectures; 1x1-hr seminar; and 1x1-hr tutorial per week Prohibitions: MATH1001 or MATH1011 or MATH1901 or MATH1111 or ENVX1001 or MATH1906 or MATH1021 or MATH1921 Assumed knowledge: Band E4 in HSC Mathematics Extension 2 or equivalent. Assessment: exam, quizzes, assignments, seminar participation Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Enrolment is by invitation only.
The Mathematics Special Studies Program is for students with exceptional mathematical aptitude, and requires outstanding performance in past mathematical studies. Students will cover the material of MATH1921 Calculus of One Variable (Adv), and attend a weekly seminar covering special topics on available elsewhere in the Mathematics and Statistics program.
MATH1933 Multivariable Calculus and Modelling (SSP)

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2x1-hr lectures; 1x1-hr seminar; and 1x1-hr tutorial per week Prohibitions: MATH1003 or MATH1903 or MATH1013 or MATH1907 or MATH1023 or MATH1923 Assumed knowledge: Band E4 in HSC Mathematics Extension 2 or equivalent. Assessment: exam, quizzes, assignments, seminar participation Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Enrolment is by invitation only.
The Mathematics Special Studies Program is for students with exceptional mathematical aptitude, and requires outstanding performance in past mathematical studies. Students will cover the material of MATH1923 Multivariable Calculus and Modelling (Adv), and attend a weekly seminar covering special topics on available elsewhere in the Mathematics and Statistics program.
2000-level units of study
DATA2002 Data Analytics: Learning from Data

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Jean Yang Session: Semester 2 Classes: lecture 3 hrs/week; computer tutorial 2 hr/week Prerequisites: [DATA1001 or ENVX1001 or ENVX1002] or [MATH10X5 and MATH1115] or [MATH10X5 and STAT2011] or [MATH1905 and MATH1XXX (except MATH1XX5)] or [BUSS1020 or ECMT1010 or STAT1021] Prohibitions: STAT2012 or STAT2912 Assumed knowledge: (Basic Linear Algebra and some coding) or QBUS1040 Assessment: written assignment, presentation, exams Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Technological advances in science, business, engineering has given rise to a proliferation of data from all aspects of our life. Understanding the information presented in these data is critical as it enables informed decision making into many areas including market intelligence and science. DATA2002 is an intermediate course in statistics and data sciences, focusing on learning data analytic skills for a wide range of problems and data. How should the Australian government measure and report employment and unemployment? Can we tell the difference between decaffeinated and regular coffee ? In this course, you will learn how to ingest, combine and summarise data from a variety of data models which are typically encountered in data science projects as well as reinforcing their programming skills through experience with statistical programming language. You will also be exposed to the concept of statistical machine learning and develop the skill to analyze various types of data in order to answer a scientific question. From this unit, you will develop knowledge and skills that will enable you to embrace data analytic challenges stemming from everyday problems.
MATH2021 Vector Calculus and Differential Equations

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: 3x1-hr lectures; 1x1-hr tutorial; and 1x1-hr practice class per week Prerequisites: (MATH1X21 or MATH1931 or MATH1X01 or MATH1906) and (MATH1XX2) and (MATH1X23 or MATH1933 or MATH1X03 or MATH1907) Prohibitions: MATH2921 or MATH2065 or MATH2965 or MATH2061 or MATH2961 or MATH2067 Assessment: assessment for this unit consists of quizzes, assignments, and a final exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit opens with topics from vector calculus, including vector-valued functions (parametrised curves and surfaces; vector fields; div, grad and curl; gradient fields and potential functions), line integrals (arc length; work; path-independent integrals and conservative fields; flux across a curve), iterated integrals (double and triple integrals, polar, cylindrical and spherical coordinates; areas, volumes and mass; Green's Theorem), flux integrals (flow through a surface; flux integrals through a surface defined by a function of two variables, through cylinders, spheres and other parametrised surfaces), Gauss' and Stokes' theorems. The unit then moves to topics in solution techniques for ordinary and partial differential equations (ODEs and PDEs) with applications. It provides a basic grounding in these techniques to enable students to build on the concepts in their subsequent courses. The main topics are: second order ODEs (including inhomogeneous equations), higher order ODEs and systems of first order equations, solution methods (variation of parameters, undetermined coefficients) the Laplace and Fourier Transform, an introduction to PDEs, and first methods of solutions (including separation of variables, and Fourier Series).
Textbooks
As set out in the Intermediate Mathematics Handbook
MATH2022 Linear and Abstract Algebra

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: 3x1-hr lectures; 1x1-hr tutorial; and 1x1-hr practice class per week Prerequisites: MATH1XX2 Prohibitions: MATH2922 or MATH2968 or MATH2061 or MATH2961 Assessment: quizzes, assignments and final exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Linear and abstract algebra is one of the cornerstones of mathematics and it is at the heart of many applications of mathematics and statistics in the sciences and engineering. This unit investigates and explores properties of linear functions, developing general principles relating to the solution sets of homogeneous and inhomogeneous linear equations, including differential equations. Linear independence is introduced as a way of understanding and solving linear systems of arbitrary dimension. Linear operators on real spaces are investigated, paying particular attention to the geometrical significance of eigenvalues and eigenvectors, extending ideas from first year linear algebra. To better understand symmetry, matrix and permutation groups are introduced and used to motivate the study of abstract group theory.
Textbooks
As set out in the Intermediate Mathematics Handbook
MATH2023 Analysis

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: lecture 3hrs/week; practice class 1hr/week; tutorial 1hr/week Prerequisites: (MATH1X21 or MATH1931 or MATH1X01 or MATH1906) and (MATH1X23 or MATH1933 or MATH1X03 or MATH1907) and (MATH1XX2) Prohibitions: MATH2923 or MATH3068 or MATH2962 Assessment: assessment for this unit consists of quizzes, an assignment, and a final exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Analysis grew out of calculus, which leads to the study of limits of functions, sequences and series. It is one of the fundamental topics underlying much of mathematics including differential equations, dynamical systems, differential geometry, topology and Fourier analysis. This unit introduces the field of mathematical analysis both with a careful theoretical framework as well as selected applications. It shows the utility of abstract concepts and teaches an understanding and construction of proofs in mathematics. This unit will be useful to students of mathematics, science and engineering and in particular to future school mathematics teachers, because we shall explain why common practices in the use of calculus are correct, and understanding this is important for correct applications and explanations. The unit starts with the foundations of calculus and the real numbers system. It goes on to study the limiting behaviour of sequences and series of real and complex numbers. This leads naturally to the study of functions defined as limits and to the notion of uniform convergence. Returning to the beginnings of calculus and power series expansions leads to complex variable theory: elementary functions of complex variable, the Cauchy integral theorem, Cauchy integral formula, residues and related topics with applications to real integrals.
Textbooks
As set out in the Intermediate Mathematics Handbook
MATH2068 Number Theory and Cryptography

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three 1 hour lectures, one 1 hour tutorial and one 1 hour computer laboratory per week. Prerequisites: 6 credit points of Junior Mathematics units Prohibitions: MATH2988 or MATH3009 or MATH3024 Assumed knowledge: MATH1014 or MATH1002 or MATH1902 Assessment: 2 hour exam, assignments, quizzes (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Cryptography is the branch of mathematics that provides the techniques for confidential exchange of information sent via possibly insecure channels. This unit introduces the tools from elementary number theory that are needed to understand the mathematics underlying the most commonly used modern public key cryptosystems. Topics include the Euclidean Algorithm, Fermat's Little Theorem, the Chinese Remainder Theorem, Möbius Inversion, the RSA Cryptosystem, the Elgamal Cryptosystem and the Diffie-Hellman Protocol. Issues of computational complexity are also discussed.
MATH2069 Discrete Mathematics and Graph Theory

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: Three 1 hour lectures, one 1 hour tutorial and one 1 hour practice class per week. Prerequisites: 6 credit points of Junior Mathematics units Prohibitions: MATH2011 or MATH2009 or MATH2969 Assessment: One 2 hour exam, assignments, quizzes (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit introduces students to several related areas of discrete mathematics, which serve their interests for further study in pure and applied mathematics, computer science and engineering. Topics to be covered in the first part of the unit include recursion and induction, generating functions and recurrences, combinatorics. Topics covered in the second part of the unit include Eulerian and Hamiltonian graphs, the theory of trees (used in the study of data structures), planar graphs, the study of chromatic polynomials (important in scheduling problems).
MATH2070 Optimisation and Financial Mathematics

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three 1 hour lectures, one 1 hour tutorial and one 1 hour computer laboratory per week. Prerequisites: (MATH1X21 or MATH1011 or MATH1931 or MATH1X01 or MATH1906) and (MATH1014 or MATH1X02) Prohibitions: MATH2010 or MATH2033 or MATH2933 or MATH2970 or ECMT3510 Assumed knowledge: MATH1X23 or MATH1933 or MATH1X03 or MATH1907 Assessment: One 2 hour exam, assignments, quiz, project (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Students may enrol in both MATH2070 and MATH3075 in the same semester
Problems in industry and commerce often involve maximising profits or minimising costs subject to constraints arising from resource limitations. The first part of this unit looks at programming problems and their solution using the simplex algorithm; nonlinear optimisation and the Kuhn Tucker conditions.
The second part of the unit deals with utility theory and modern portfolio theory. Topics covered include: pricing under the principles of expected return and expected utility; mean-variance Markowitz portfolio theory, the Capital Asset Pricing Model, log-optimal portfolios and the Kelly criterion; dynamical programming. Some understanding of probability theory including distributions and expectations is required in this part.
Theory developed in lectures will be complemented by computer laboratory sessions using MATLAB. Minimal computing experience will be required.
MATH2916 Working Seminar A (SSP)

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 1 Classes: One 1 hour seminar per week. Prerequisites: High Distinction average over 12 credit points of Junior Advanced Mathematics Assessment: One 1 hour presentation, 15-20 page essay (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
The main aim of this unit is to develop the students' written and oral presentation skills. The material will consist of a series of connected topics relevant to modern mathematics and statistics. The topics are chosen to suit the students' background and interests, and are not covered by other mathematics or statistics units. The first session will be an introduction on the principles of written and oral presentation of mathematics. Under the supervision and advice of the lecturer(s) in charge, the students present the topics to the other students and the lecturer in a seminar series and a written essay in a manner that reflects the practice of research in mathematics and statistics.
MATH2917 Working Seminar B (SSP)

Credit points: 3 Session: Semester 2 Classes: One 1 hour seminar per week. Prerequisites: High Distinction average over 12 credit points of Junior Advanced Mathematics Assessment: One 1 hour presentation, 15-20 page essay (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
The main aim of this unit is to develop the students' written and oral presentation skills. The material will consist of a series of connected topics relevant to modern mathematics and statistics. The topics are chosen to suit the students' background and interests, and are not covered by other mathematics or statistics units. The first session will be an introduction on the principles of written and oral presentation of mathematics. Under the supervision and advice of the lecturer(s) in charge, the students present the topics to the other students and the lecturer in a seminar series and a written essay in a manner that reflects the practice of research in mathematics and statistics.
MATH2921 Vector Calculus and Differential Eqs (Adv)

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: 3x1-hr lectures; 1x1-hr tutorial; and 1x1-hr practice class per week Prerequisites: [(MATH1921 or MATH1931 or MATH1901 or MATH1906) or (a mark of 65 or above in MATH1021 or MATH1001)] and [MATH1902 or (a mark of 65 or above in MATH1002)] and [(MATH1923 or MATH1933 or MATH1903 or MATH1907) or (a mark of 65 or above in MATH1023 or MATH1003)] Prohibitions: MATH2021 or MATH2065 or MATH2965 or MATH2061 or MATH2961 or MATH2067 Assessment: assessment for this unit consists of quizzes, assignments, and a final exam. Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This is the advanced version of MATH2021, with more emphasis on the underlying concepts and mathematical rigour. The vector calculus component of the course will include: parametrised curves and surfaces, vector fields, div, grad and curl, gradient fields and potential functions, lagrange multipliers line integrals, arc length, work, path-independent integrals, and conservative fields, flux across a curve, double and triple integrals, change of variable formulas, polar, cylindrical and spherical coordinates, areas, volumes and mass, flux integrals, and Green's Gauss' and Stokes' theorems. The Differential Equations half of the course will focus on ordinary and partial differential equations (ODEs and PDEs) with applications with more complexity and depth. The main topics are: second order ODEs (including inhomogeneous equations), series solutions near a regular point, higher order ODEs and systems of first order equations, matrix equations and solutions, solution methods (variation of parameters, undetermined coefficients) the Laplace and Fourier Transform, elementary Sturm-Liouville theory, an introduction to PDEs, and first methods of solutions (including separation of variables, and Fourier Series). The unit then moves to topics in solution techniques for ordinary and partial differential equations (ODEs and PDEs) with applications. It provides a more thorough grounding in these techniques to enable students to build on the concepts in their subsequent courses. The main topics are: second order ODEs (including inhomogeneous equations), higher order ODEs and systems of first order equations, solution methods (variation of parameters, undetermined coefficients) the Laplace and Fourier Transform, an introduction to PDEs, and first methods of solutions (including separation of variables, and Fourier Series).
Textbooks
As set out in the Intermediate Mathematics Handbook
MATH2922 Linear and Abstract Algebra (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: 3x1-hr lectures; 1x1-hr tutorial; and 1x1-hr practice class per week Prerequisites: MATH1902 or (a mark of 65 or above in MATH1002) Prohibitions: MATH2022 or MATH2968 or MATH2061 or MATH2961 Assessment: quizzes, assignments and final exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Linear and abstract algebra is one of the cornerstones of mathematics and it is at the heart of many applications of mathematics and statistics in the sciences and engineering. This unit is an advanced version of MATH2022, with more emphasis on the underlying concepts and on mathematical rigour. This unit investigates and explores properties of vector spaces, matrices and linear transformations, developing general principles relating to the solution sets of homogeneous and inhomogeneous linear equations, including differential equations. Linear independence is introduced as a way of understanding and solving linear systems of arbitrary dimension. Linear operators on real spaces are investigated, paying particular attention to the geometrical significance of eigenvalues and eigenvectors, extending ideas from first year linear algebra. To better understand symmetry, matrix and permutation groups are introduced and used to motivate the study of abstract group theory. The unit culminates in studying inner spaces, quadratic forms and normal forms of matrices together with their applications to problems both in mathematics and in the sciences and engineering.
Textbooks
As set out in the Intermediate Mathematics Handbook
MATH2923 Analysis (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: lecture 3hrs/week; practice class 1hr/week; tutorial 1hr/week Prerequisites: [(MATH1921 or MATH1931 or MATH1901 or MATH1906) or (a mark of 65 or above in MATH1021 or MATH1001)] and [MATH1902 or (a mark of 65 or above in MATH1002)] and [(MATH1923 or MATH1933 or MATH1903 or MATH1907) or (a mark of 65 or above in MATH1023 or MATH1003)] Prohibitions: MATH2023 or MATH2962 or MATH3068 Assessment: assessment for this unit consists of quizzes, an assignment, and a final exam Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Analysis grew out of calculus, which leads to the study of limits of functions, sequences and series. It is one of the fundamental topics underlying much of mathematics including differential equations, dynamical systems, differential geometry, topology and Fourier analysis. This advanced unit introduces the field of mathematical analysis both with a careful theoretical frame- work as well as selected applications. It shows the utility of abstract concepts and teaches an understanding and construction of proofs in mathematics. This unit will be useful to students with more mathematical maturity who study mathematics, science, or engineering. The unit starts with the foundations of calculus and the real numbers system, with more emphasis on the topology. It goes on to study the limiting behaviour of sequences and series of real and complex numbers. This leads naturally to the study of functions defined as limits and to the notion of uniform con- vergence. Returning to the beginnings of calculus and power series expansions leads to complex variable theory: elementary functions of complex variable, the Cauchy integral theorem, Cauchy integral formula, residues and related topics with applications to real integrals.
Textbooks
As set out in the Intermediate Mathematics Handbook
MATH2969 Discrete Mathematics and Graph Theory Adv

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: Three 1 hour lectures, one 1 hour tutorial and one 1 hour practice class per week. Prerequisites: 9 credit points of Junior Mathematics (advanced level or Credit at the normal level) Prohibitions: MATH2011 or MATH2009 or MATH2069 Assessment: One 2-hour exam, assignments, quizzes (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit will cover the same material as MATH2069 with some extensions and additional topics.
MATH2970 Optimisation and Financial Mathematics Adv

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three 1 hour lectures, one 1 hour tutorial and one 1 hour computer laboratory per week (lectures given in common with MATH2070). Prerequisites: [MATH19X1 or MATH1906 or (a mark of 65 or above in MATH1021 or MATH1001)] and [MATH1902 or (a mark of 65 or above in MATH1002)] Prohibitions: MATH2010 or MATH2033 or MATH2933 or MATH2070 or ECMT3510 Assumed knowledge: MATH19X3 or MATH1907 or a mark of 65 or above in MATH1003 or MATH1023 Assessment: One 2 hour exam, assignments, quizzes (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Students may enrol in both MATH2970 and MATH3975 in the same semester
The content of this unit of study parallels that of MATH2070, but students enrolled at Advanced level will undertake more advanced problem solving and assessment tasks, and some additional topics may be included.
MATH2988 Number Theory and Cryptography Advanced

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three 1 hour lectures, one 1 hour tutorial and one 1 hour computer laboratory per week. Prerequisites: [MATH19X1 or MATH1906 or (a mark of 65 or above in MATH1021 or MATH1001)] and [MATH19X3 or MATH1907 or (a mark of 65 or above in MATH1023 or MATH1003)] and [MATH1902 or (a mark of 65 or above in MATH1002)] Prohibitions: MATH2068 Assessment: One 2 hr exam, homework assignments (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit of study is an advanced version of MATH2068, sharing the same lectures but with more advanced topics introduced in the tutorials and computer laboratory sessions.
STAT2011 Probability and Estimation Theory

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: Three 1 hour lectures, one 1 hour tutorial and one 1 hour computer laboratory week. Prerequisites: (MATH1X21 or MATH1931 or MATH1X01 or MATH1906 or MATH1011) and (MATH1XX5 or STAT1021 or ECMT1010 or BUSS1020) Prohibitions: STAT2901 or STAT2001 or STAT2911 Assessment: One 2 hour exam, assignments and/or quizzes, and computer practical reports (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit provides an introduction to univariate techniques in data analysis and the most common statistical distributions that are used to model patterns of variability. Common discrete random models like the binomial, Poisson and geometric, continuous models including the normal and exponential will be studied along with elementary regression models. The method of moments and maximum likelihood techniques for fitting statistical distributions to data will be explored. The unit will have weekly computer classes where candidates will learn to use a statistical computing package to perform simulations and carry out computer intensive estimation techniques like the bootstrap method.
STAT2911 Probability and Statistical Models (Adv)

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: Three 1 hour lectures, one 1 hour tutorial and one 1 hour computer laboratory per week. Prerequisites: [MATH19X3 or MATH1907 or (a mark of 65 in MATH1023 or MATH1003)] and [MATH1905 or MATH1904 or (a mark of 65 in MATH1005 or ECMT1010 or BUSS1020)] Prohibitions: STAT2001 or STAT2901 or STAT2011 Assessment: One 2 hour exam, assignments and/or quizzes, and computer practical reports (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit is essentially an advanced version of STAT2011, with an emphasis on the mathematical techniques used to manipulate random variables and probability models. Common distributions including the Poisson, normal, beta and gamma families as well as the bivariate normal are introduced. Moment generating functions and convolution methods are used to understand the behaviour of sums of random variables. The method of moments and maximum likelihood techniques for fitting statistical distributions to data will be explored. The notions of conditional expectation and prediction will be covered as will be distributions related to the normal: chi^2, t and F. The unit will have weekly computer classes where candidates will learn to use a statistical computing package to perform simulations and carry out computer intensive estimation techniques like the bootstrap method.
STAT2912 Statistical Tests (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three 1 hour lectures, one 1 hour tutorial and one 1 hour computer laboratory per week. Prerequisites: MATH1905 or Credit in MATH1005 or Credit in ECMT1010 or Credit in BUSS1020 Prohibitions: STAT2012 or STAT2004 or DATA2002 Assumed knowledge: STAT2911 Assessment: One 2-hour exam, assignments and/or quizzes, computer practical reports and one computer practical exam (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit is essentially an advanced version of STAT2012 with an emphasis on both methods and the mathematical derivation of these methods: Tests of hypotheses and confidence intervals, including t-tests, analysis of variance, regression - least squares and robust methods, power of tests, non-parametric methods, non-parametric smoothing, tests for count data, goodness of fit, contingency tables. Graphical methods and diagnostic methods are used throughout with all analyses discussed in the context of computation with real data using an interactive statistical package.
Physics
1000-level units of study
COSC1003 Introduction to Computational Science

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Tristram Aexander Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2 hours of lectures and 3 hours of practicals per week. Prohibitions: COSC1903 Assumed knowledge: [(MATH1X01 or MATH1X21) and MATH1X02] OR HSC Mathematics, Linear Algebra Assessment: One 2-hour final exam, one assignment, two lab-based practical tests and completion of computational lab sessions (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit of study focuses on scientific problem solving and data visualization using computers. Students will learn how to solve problems arising in the natural sciences and mathematics using core features of MATLAB, with a choice of problems from various areas of science. No previous knowledge of programming is assumed.
COSC1903 Introduction to Computational Sci (Adv)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Tristram Alexander Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2 hours of lectures and 3 hours of practicals per week. Prerequisites: 75 or above in (INFO1003 or INFO1903) Prohibitions: COSC1003 Assumed knowledge: [(MATH1X01 or MATH1X21) and MATH1X02] OR HSC Mathematics, Linear Algebra Assessment: One 2-hour final exam, one assignment, two lab-based practical tests and completion of computational lab sessions (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Prerequisites: ATAR of at least 90
This unit of study focuses on scientific problem solving and data visualization using computers. Students will learn how to solve problems arising in the natural sciences and mathematics using core features of MATLAB, with a choice of problems from various areas of science. No previous knowledge of programming is assumed.
PHYS1001 Physics 1 (Regular)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Helen Johnston Session: Semester 1 Classes: Three 1-hour lectures, one 3-hour laboratory per week for 9 weeks and one 1-hour tutorial per week. Prohibitions: PHYS1002 or PHYS1901 or EDUH1017 or PHYS1903 Assumed knowledge: HSC Physics or PHYS1003 or PHYS1004 or PHYS1902 or equivalent. Students who have not completed HSC Physics (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Physics Bridging Course (offered in February). Students are also encouraged to take (MATH1X21 or MATH1931 or MATH1X01 or MATH1906) and MATH1X02 concurrently. Assessment: 3 hour exam plus laboratories, assignments and mid-semester tests (100%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit of study is for students who gained 65 marks or better in HSC Physics or equivalent. The lecture series contains three modules on the topics of mechanics, thermal physics, and oscillations and waves.
Textbooks
Young and Freedman. University Physics with Modern Physics, Global Edition. 14th edition, Pearsons 2015. Course lab manual.
PHYS1002 Physics 1 (Fundamentals)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Helen Johnston Session: Semester 1 Classes: Three 1-hour lectures, one 3-hour laboratory per week for 9 weeks and one 1-hour tutorial per week. Prohibitions: PHYS1001 or PHYS1901 or EDUH1017 or PHYS1903 Assumed knowledge: Students are encouraged to take (MATH1X21 or MATH1931 or MATH1X01 or MATH1906) and MATH1X02 concurrently. Assessment: 3 hour exam plus laboratories, assignments and mid-semester tests (100%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit of study is designed for students who have not studied Physics previously or scored below 65 in HSC Physics. The lecture series contains modules on the language of physics, mechanics, and oscillations and waves.
Textbooks
College Physics: A Strategic Approach by Knight, Jones and Field, 3rd edition. Pearsons 2014. Course lab manual.
PHYS1003 Physics 1 (Technological)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Helen Johnston Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three 1-hour lectures, one 3-hour laboratory per week for 10 weeks, one 1-hour tutorial per week. Corequisites: Recommended Co-requisites: (MATH1003 or MATH1903) and (MATH1005 or MATH1905). Prohibitions: PHYS1004 or PHYS1902 or PHYS1904 Assumed knowledge: HSC Physics or PHYS1001 or PHYS1002 or PHYS1901 or equivalent. Students who have not completed HSC Physics (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Physics Bridging Course (offered in February). Students are also encouraged to take (MATH1X23 or MATH1933 or MATH1X03 or MATH1907) and MATH1X05 concurrently. Assessment: 3 hour exam plus laboratories, tutorials, and assignments (100%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: It is recommended that PHYS1001 or PHYS1002 or PHYS1901 be completed before this unit
This unit of study is designed for students majoring in physical and engineering sciences and emphasis is placed on applications of physical principles to the technological world. The lecture series contains modules on the topics of fluids, electromagnetism, and quantum physics.
Textbooks
Young and Freedman. University Physics with Modern Physics, Global Edition. 14th edition, Pearsons 2015. Course lab manual.
PHYS1004 Physics 1 (Environmental and Life Science)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Helen Johnston Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three 1-hour lectures, one 3-hour laboratory per week for 10 weeks and one 1-hour tutorial per week. Prohibitions: PHYS1003 or PHYS1902 or PHYS1904 Assumed knowledge: HSC Physics or PHYS1001 or PHYS1002 or PHYS1901 or equivalent. Students who have not completed HSC Physics (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Physics Bridging Course (offered in February). Students are also encouraged to take (MATH1X23 or MATH1933 or MATH1X03 or MATH1907) and MATH1X05 concurrently. Assessment: 3-hour exam plus laboratories and assignments (100%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: It is recommended that PHYS1001 or PHYS1002 or PHYS1901 be completed before this unit
This unit of study has been designed specifically for students interested in further study in environmental and life sciences. The lecture series contains modules on the topics of properties of matter, electromagnetism, and radiation and its interactions with matter.
Textbooks
College Physics: A Strategic Approach by Knight, Jones and Field, 3rd edition. Pearsons 2014. Course lab manual.
PHYS1500 Astronomy

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Helen Johnston Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three 1-hour lectures, one 2-hour laboratory and one 1-hour tutorial per week. Assessment: 2 hour exam plus laboratories, assignments and night-viewing project (100%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: No assumed knowledge of Physics.
This unit of study provides a broad understanding of the structure, scale and diversity of the universe and an appreciation of the scientific methods used to achieve this understanding. Current areas of investigation, new ideas and concepts which often receive wide media attention will be used to demonstrate how science attempts to understand new and remote phenomena and how our ideas of our place in the universe are changing. The range of topics includes the planets, the solar system and its origin, spacecraft discoveries, stars, supernova, black holes, galaxies, quasars, cosmology and the Big Bang. It also includes day and night sky observing sessions. This unit of study cannot be counted as part of the 12 credit points of Junior Physics necessary for enrolment in Intermediate Physics.
Textbooks
Bennett, et al. The Cosmic Perspective. 7th edition, with Mastering Astronomy. Pearsons, 2014. Course lab manual.
PHYS1901 Physics 1A (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Helen Johnston Session: Semester 1 Classes: Three 1-hour lectures, one 3-hour laboratory per week for 9 weeks and one 1-hour tutorial per week. Prohibitions: PHYS1001 or PHYS1002 or EDUH1017 or PHYS1903 Assumed knowledge: (85 or above in HSC Physics or equivalent) OR (75 or above in one of PHYS1003 or PHYS1004) OR (PHYS1902 or PHYS1904). Students are also encouraged to take (MATH1X21 or MATH1931 or MATH1X01 or MATH1906) and MATH1X02 concurrently. Assessment: 3-hour exam plus laboratories, assignments and mid-semester tests (100%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This unit of study is intended for students who have a strong background in Physics and an interest in studying more advanced topics. It proceeds faster than Physics 1 (Regular), covering further and more difficult material. The lecture series contains modules on the topics of mechanics, thermal physics, oscillations and waves and chaos. The laboratory work also provides an introduction to computational physics using chaos theory as the topic of study.
Textbooks
Young and Freedman. University Physics with Modern Physics, Global Edition. 14th edition, Pearsons 2015. Course lab manual.
PHYS1902 Physics 1B (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Helen Johnston Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three 1-hour lectures, one 3-hour laboratory per week for 10 weeks and one 1-hour tutorial per week. Corequisites: Recommended Co-requisites: (MATH1003 or MATH1903) and (MATH1005 or MATH1905) Prohibitions: PHYS1003 or PHYS1004 or PHYS1904 Assumed knowledge: (85 or above in HSC Physics or equivalent) OR (75 or above in one of PHYS1001 or PHYS1002) OR (PHYS1901 or PHYS1903). Students are also encouraged to take (MATH1X23 or MATH1933 or MATH1X03 or MATH1907) and MATH1X05 concurrently. Assessment: 3-hour exam plus laboratories, and assignments (100%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This unit of study is a continuation of the more advanced treatment of Physics 1A (Advanced). Students who have completed PHYS1001 or PHYS1002 at Distinction level may enrol. It proceeds faster than Physics 1 (Technological), covering further and more difficult material. The lecture series contains modules on the topics of fluids, electricity and magnetism, and quantum physics.
Textbooks
Young and Freedman. University Physics with Modern Physics, Global Edition. 14th edition, Pearsons 2015. Course lab manual.
PHYS1903 Physics 1A (Special Studies Program)

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: 3x1hr lectures per week, 1x1hr tutorial per week Prohibitions: PHYS1001 or PHYS1002 or EDUH1017 or PHYS1901 Assumed knowledge: [92 or above in HSC Physics (or equivalent)] OR [80 or above in one of PHYS1904 or PHYS1902]. Students are also encouraged to take (MATH1X21 or MATH1931 or MATH1X01 or MATH1906) and MATH1X02 concurrently. Assessment: 3hr exam plus laboratories, assignments, mid-semester tests and end-of-semester lab project presentation Practical field work: 1x3hr laboratory for 9 weeks, including short project-based exercises Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
The unit is intended for high achieving students who have a strong background in Physics and an interest in studying more advanced topics. It shares lecture and tutorial classes with PHYS1901, with modules on the topics of mechanics, thermal physics oscillations and wave and chaos. However, it features a laboratory component that is very different, with project-based exercises and a more open-ended research format than other lab classes.
Textbooks
Young and Freedman, University Physics, 14th edition with Modern Physics, Global Edition, Pearson 2015. Course lab manual
PHYS1904 Physics 1B (Special Studies Program)

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: 3x1hr lectures per week, 1x1hr tutorial per week Prohibitions: PHYS1003 or PHYS1004 or PHYS1902 Assumed knowledge: 75 or above in PHYS1903 or 85 or above in PHYS1901. Entry is by invitation. This unit of study is deemed to be an Advanced unit of study. Students are also encouraged to take (MATH1X23 or MATH1933 or MATH1X03 or MATH1907) and MATH1X05 concurrently. Assessment: 3hr exam plus laboratories, assignments, mid-semester tests and end-of-semester research project report and presentation Practical field work: 1x3hr laboratory for 4 weeks and a research project in the other weeks of semester Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
The unit is a continuation for high achieving students of PHYS1904. It shares lecture and tutorial classes with PHYS1902, with modules on the topics of fluids, electricity and magnetism, and quantum physics. The lab component features a research project to be performed with researchers in one of the School's research groups.
Textbooks
Young and Freedman, University Physics, 14th edition with Modern Physics, Global Edition, Pearson 2015. Course lab manual
2000-level units of study
PHYS2011 Physics 2A

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Iver Cairns Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week for 11 weeks; one 2-hour computational laboratory and one 3-hour experimental laboratory per week for 10 weeks. Prerequisites: (PHYS1901 or PHYS1001 or PHYS1002 or PHYS1903) and (PHYS1902 or PHYS1003 or PHYS1004 or PHYS1904) Prohibitions: PHYS2911 or PHYS2213 Assumed knowledge: (MATH1X21 or MATH1931 or MATH1X01 or MATH1906) and (MATH1X02) and (MATH1X23 or MATH1933 or MATH1X03 or MATH1907) and (MATH1X05) Assessment: One 2-hour exam, assignments, one 1-hour computational test, practical work, practical report and presentation, computational lab work (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
In combination with two semesters of Junior Physics, this unit of study continues a first pass through the major branches of classical and modern physics, providing students with a sound basis for later Physics units or for studies in other areas of science or technology. Hence, this unit suits students continuing with the study of Physics at the Intermediate level, and those wishing to round out their knowledge of physics before continuing in other fields. The modules in this unit of study are: Optics: The wave nature of light, and its interactions with matter; applications including spectroscopy and fibre optics. Thermodynamics: The thermal properties of matter. Computational Physics: In a PC-based computing laboratory students use simulation software to conduct virtual experiments in physics, which illustrate and extend the relevant lectures. Students also gain general skills in the use of computers to solve problems in physics. An introductory session of MATLAB is held in the first three lab sessions for students who are not familiar with programming. Practical: Experimental Physics is taught as a laboratory module and includes experiments in the areas of electrical circuits, nuclear decay and particles, properties of matter, and other topics. Assessment is based on mastery of each attempted experiment. At the end of the semester students prepare a short report on one experiment and make an oral presentation on it.
Textbooks
Young and Freedman, University Physics with Modern Physics Technology Update, 13th edition. with Mastering Physics, Pearsons, 2014.
PHYS2012 Physics 2B

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Iver Cairns Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three 1-hour lectures per week; one 2-hour computational laboratory per week for 11 weeks. Prerequisites: (PHYS1003 or PHYS1004 or PHYS1902 or PHYS1904) and (PHYS1001 or PHYS1002 or PHYS1901 or PHYS1903 or PHYS2011 or PHYS2911) Prohibitions: PHYS2912 or PHYS2213 Assumed knowledge: (MATH1X21 or MATH1931 or MATH1X01 or MATH1906) and (MATH1X02) and (MATH1X23 or MATH1933 or MATH1X03 or MATH1907) and (MATH1X05) Assessment: One 3-hour exam, assignments, one 1-hour computational test, computational lab work and project, practical work and report (100%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit of study is designed for students continuing with the study of Physics at the general Intermediate level, and represents the beginning of a more in-depth study of the main topics of classical and modern physics. The modules in this unit of study are: Quantum Physics: The behaviour of matter and radiation at the microscopic level. Electromagnetic Properties of Matter: Electric and magnetic effects in materials; the combination of electric and magnetic fields to produce light and other electromagnetic waves; the effects of matter on electromagnetic waves. Computational Physics: The computational physics component is similar to that of PHYS2011.
Textbooks
Serway, Moses and Moyer. Modern Physics. 3rd edition. Brooks/Cole. 2005.
PHYS2013 Astrophysics and Relativity

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Iver Cairns Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week for 11 weeks and one 3-hour experimental laboratory per week for 12 weeks. Prerequisites: (PHYS1003 or PHYS1004 or PHYS1902 or PHYS1904) and (PHYS1001 or PHYS1002 or PHYS1901 or PHYS1903 or PHYS2011 or PHYS2911) Corequisites: PHYS2012 or PHYS2912 Prohibitions: PHYS2913 Assumed knowledge: (MATH1X21 or MATH1931 or MATH1X01 or MATH1906) and (MATH1X02) and (MATH1X23 or MATH1933 or MATH1X03 or MATH1907) and (MATH1X05) Assessment: One 2-hour exam, assignments, practical work, practical report and oral presentation (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit of study builds on the foundation provided by Junior Physics and first semester of Intermediate Physics, to provide introductions to Cosmology (Structure and evolution of the Universe), and Special Relativity (Space and time at high velocities). Practical: Experimental Physics is taught as a laboratory module and includes experiments in the areas of analysis of stellar images, electromagnetic phenomena, electronic instrumentation, quantum physics, and other topics. Assessment is based on mastery of each attempted experiment. At the end of the semester students may work in teams on a project. Students prepare a written report and oral presentation on their project or one experiment.
Textbooks
Young and Freedman, University Physics with Modern Physics Technology Update, 13th edition. with Mastering Physics, Pearsons, 2014.
PHYS2911 Physics 2A (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Iver Cairns Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week for 11 weeks; one 2-hour computational laboratory and one 3-hour experimental laboratory per week for 10 weeks. Prerequisites: 65 or above in (PHYS1901 or PHYS1001 or PHYS1002 or PHYS1903) and 65 or above in (PHYS1902 or PHYS1003 or PHYS1004 or PHYS1904) Prohibitions: PHYS2011 or PHYS2213 Assumed knowledge: (MATH1X21 or MATH1931 or MATH1X01 or MATH1906) and (MATH1X02) and (MATH1X23 or MATH1933 or MATH1X03 or MATH1907) and (MATH1X05) Assessment: One 2-hour exam, assignments, one 1-hour computational test, practical work, practical report and presentation, computational lab work (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit of study is designed for students with a strong interest in Physics. The lecture topics are as for PHYS2011. They are treated in greater depth and with more rigorous attention to derivations than in PHYS2011. The assessment reflects the more challenging nature of the material presented.
Textbooks
Young and Freedman, University Physics with Modern Physics Technology Update, 13th edition. with Mastering Physics, Pearsons, 2014.
PHYS2912 Physics 2B (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Iver Cairns Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three 1-hour lectures per week, one-2 hour computational laboratory per week for 11 weeks. Prerequisites: 65 or above in (PHYS1003 or PHYS1004 or PHYS1902 or PHYS1904) and 65 or above in (PHYS1001 or PHYS1002 or PHYS1901 or PHYS1903 or PHYS2011 or PHYS2911) Prohibitions: PHYS2012 or PHYS2213 Assumed knowledge: (MATH1X21 or MATH1931 or MATH1X01 or MATH1906) and (MATH1X02) and (MATH1X23 or MATH1933 or MATH1X03 or MATH1907) and (MATH1X05) Assessment: One 3-hour exam, assignments, one 1-hour computational test, computational lab work and project, practical work and report (100%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Refer to PHYS2911 for an overall description of the Advanced Intermediate Physics program. The lecture topics are as for PHYS2012 with some advanced content. Computational Physics: As for PHYS2012, but at a more advanced level.
Textbooks
Young and Freedman, University Physics with Modern Physics Technology Update, 13th edition. with Mastering Physics, Pearsons, 2014.
PHYS2913 Astrophysics and Relativity (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Iver Cairns Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week for 11 weeks; one 3-hour experimental laboratory per week for 12 weeks. Prerequisites: 65 or above in (PHYS1003 or PHYS1004 or PHYS1902 or PHYS1904) and 65 or above in (PHYS1001 or PHYS1002 or PHYS1901 or PHYS1903 or PHYS2011 or PHYS2911) Corequisites: PHYS2912 or PHYS2012 Prohibitions: PHYS2013 Assumed knowledge: (MATH1X21 or MATH1931 or MATH1X01 or MATH1906) and (MATH1X02) and (MATH1X23 or MATH1933 or MATH1X03 or MATH1907) and (MATH1X05) Assessment: One 3-hour exam, assignments, practical work, practical report and oral presentation (100%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
The lecture topics are as PHYS2013 with some advanced content. Practical: as for PHYS2013.
Textbooks
Young and Freedman, University Physics with Modern Physics Technology Update, 13th edition. with Mastering Physics, Pearsons, 2014.
Psychology

1000-level units of study

PSYC1001 Psychology 1001

Credit points: 6 Session: Intensive June,Semester 1,Summer Main Classes: Three 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week, plus 1 hour per week of additional web-based (self-paced) material related to the tutorial. Assessment: One 2.5hr exam, one 1000 word research report, multiple tutorial tests, experimental participation (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Psychology 1001 is a general introduction to the main topics and methods of psychology, and is the basis for advanced work as well as being of use to those not proceeding with the subject. Psychology 1001 covers the following areas: science and statistics in psychology; applied psychology; themes in the history of psychology; social psychology; personality theory; human development. This unit is also offered in the Sydney Summer School. For more information consult the web site: http://sydney.edu.au/summer_school/
Textbooks
Available on-line once semester commences
PSYC1002 Psychology 1002

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2,Summer Main Classes: Three 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week, plus 1 hour per week of additional web-based (self-paced) material related to the tutorial. Assessment: One 2.5hr exam, one 1000 word research report, multiple tutorial tests, experimental participation (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
Note: This unit is also offered in the Sydney Summer School. For more information consult the web site: http://sydney.edu.au/summer/
Psychology 1002 is a further general introduction to the main topics and methods of psychology, and it is the basis for advanced work as well as being of use to those not proceeding with the subject. Psychology 1002 covers the following areas: neuroscience; human mental abilities; learning and motivation; visual perception; cognitive processes; abnormal psychology.
This unit is also offered in the Sydney Summer School. For more information consult the web site:
http://sydney.edu.au/summer_school/
Textbooks
Available on-line once semester commences
2000-level units of study
PSYC2010 Brain and Behaviour

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: 3x1hr lectures and 1x1hr tutorial per week Prerequisites: PSYC1002 Prohibitions: PSYC2011, PSYC2911, PSYC2910 Assessment: 1x2hr examination, 1x1500 word report, 1 x quiz, 1 x oral presentation/debate (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This Unit of Study examines a range of phenomena and principles in behaviour, learning and perception, abnormal psychology and their relations to underlying neural substrates. The emphasis in learning is on instrumental conditioning and the principle of reinforcement, ranging from applications of this principle to its neural substrates. Also covered are motivational aspects of behaviour, such as punishment and avoidance. The Abnormal Psychology section will focus on emotional and motivational disorders, such as anxiety and depression, addiction, sex and appetite, together with related neurochemical mechanisms and the effects of various psychopharmacological agents on these processes. A number of perceptual phenomena will be studied, such as motion detection, recognition of faces, identification of emotion, hearing and hearing loss, taste discrimination, and chronic pain. The practical classes are designed for students with an interest in clinical and therapeutic Psychology, and will allow students to design and implement a behaviour modification programme.
Textbooks
Bouton, M.E. (2007). Learning and Behavior: A Contemporary Synthesis. Sinauer.
PSYC2012 Statistics and Research Methods for Psych

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: 3 x 1 hour lectures per week for 6 weeks (even weeks) and 2 x 1 hour lectures per week for the remaining 7 weeks (odd weeks); 2 hour tutorial per week Prerequisites: PSYC1001 OR PSYC1002 Assumed knowledge: Recommended: HSC Mathematics, any level Assessment: One 2 hour final exam plus a combination of in class tests, midsemester exam, and/or a written assignment (100%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
The aim is to introduce students to fundamental concepts in statistics as applied to psychological research. These include summary descriptive statistics, an introduction to the principles and practice of research design, and the use of inferential statistics. Building upon this framework, the unit of study aims to develop each student's expertise in understanding the rationale for, and application of, a variety of statistical tests to the sorts of data typically obtained in psychological research.
PSYC2013 Cognitive and Social Psychology

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week. Prerequisites: PSYC1001 and PSYC1002 Assessment: One 2 hour exam, major assignment (1500-2000 word essay/report), minor assignment (short written practical exercise and/or tutorial quiz) (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This unit expands the depth and range of topics introduced in the first year lectures on Cognitive Processes, Social Psychology and Developmental Psychology. The section on Cognitive Processes focuses on current theories of memory, attention, and reasoning and discusses the methods and issues involved in investigating these processes in both healthy individuals and people with cognitive dysfunctions. The second section on Social Psychology examines salient social constructs such as impression management, and prejudice, and explores how mental processes affect social judgment and behaviour. The final section on Developmental Psychology presents and evaluates evidence about the early influences on children's social and cognitive development.
PSYC2014 Personality and Psychology Assessment 1

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week. Prerequisites: PSYC1001 and PSYC1002 Assessment: One 2 hour exam, major assignment (1500-2000 word essay/report), minor assignment (short written practical exercise and/or tutorial quizzes and/or class presentation) (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
The main aim of this course is to introduce students to a number of influential theories in personality and intelligence. Students will be exposed to some conceptual analysis and will be expected to gain an understanding and be able to examine critically the various theories covered. Furthermore, students will be introduced to key topics in the scientific study and assessment of individual differences (Psychometrics) in personality and intelligence. The course will cover both conceptual (e.g. validity and reliability) and applied (e.g. Factor Analysis) elements of statistical psychometric inference.
PSYC2910 Brain and Behaviour (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Ian Johnston Session: Semester 1 Classes: 3x1hr lectures and 1x1hr tutorial per week Prerequisites: A mark of at least 75 in PSYC1002 Prohibitions: PSYC2011, PSYC2911, PSYC2010 Assessment: 1x2hr examination, 1x1500 word report, 1 x quiz, 1 x oral presentation/debate (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day Faculty: Science
This Unit of Study focuses on the Behavioural Sciences, Neurosciences, Abnormal Psychology and the study of perception. The lecture content is the same as PSYC2011, and examines a range of phenomena and principles in behaviour, learning and perception, and their relations to underlying neural substrates. The emphasis in learning is on instrumental conditioning and the principle of reinforcement, ranging from applications of this principle to its neural substrates. Also covered are motivational aspects of behaviour, such as punishment and avoidance. The Abnormal Psychology section will focus on emotional and motivational disorders, such as anxiety and depression, addiction, sex and appetite, together with related neurochemical mechanisms and the effects of various psychopharmacological agents on these processes. A number of perceptual phenomena will be studied, such as motion detection, recognition of faces, identification of emotion, hearing and hearing loss, taste discrimination, and chronic pain. The practical classes differ from PSYC2011, as it is targeted for those who would like to learn more about the experimental study of behaviour and the neurosciences. Students will gain hands-on laboratory experience in how the principles and phenomena of behavioural neuroscience may be studied experimentally.
Textbooks
Bouton, M.E. (2007). Learning and Behavior: A Contemporary Synthesis. Sinauer.