Astrophysics
About the program
Astrophysics is a subfield of physics, and hence the Astrophysics Program includes the Physics Major as its main component. Techniques developed by physicists and astrophysicists are used across the sciences, e.g., data science, optics, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, radio-carbon dating, medical resonance imaging, nuclear medicine, atomic absorption spectroscopy and electron microscopy.
Skills acquired during an Astrophysics Program, such as numerical and logical problem solving, information handling, critical reasoning, clear communication, experimentation, and use of computers as an analysis tool, are much in demand in many fields of employment. You may end up as a professional astrophysicist, but equally these skills are valued for a job in data science, medicine, communications, manufacturing, teaching, journalism, public service, management, finance, and many more.
Requirements for completion
The Astrophysics program requirements are listed in the Astrophysics unit of study table.
Contact and further information
W Study physics
Address:
School of Physics
Physics Office, Room 210, Building A28
University of Sydney NSW 2006
Physics Student Services
E physics.studentservices@sydney.edu.au
T +61 2 9351 3037
Associate Professor Tristram Alexander
E tristram.alexander@sydney.edu.au
T +61 2 8627 6354
Learning outcomes
Students who graduate from Astrophysics will be able to:
| No. | Learning outcomes |
|---|---|
| 1 | Exhibit a broad understanding of foundation concepts in physics and astrophysics and the mathematical skills necessary to formalise these concepts. |
| 2 | Explain how theories in physics and astrophysics are formulated and tested, and how they are used to explain and interpret observations. |
| 3 | Explain the role and relevance of physics to society and describe its role in the development and application of technology. |
| 4 | Investigate and solve physics problems using experimental, computational, and theoretical tools and techniques. |
| 5 | Evaluate experimental or computational data in physics and astrophysics, including uncertainties, and use the results to draw conclusions. |
| 6 | Communicate physics and astrophysics to a variety of audiences through a range of modes using evidence-based arguments, and evaluate arguments presented by others. |
| 7 | Source, collect, synthesise and critically evaluate information on issues in physics and astrophysics from a range of relevant sources. |
| 8 | Identify how fundamental physics concepts are applicable in different contexts and apply physics knowledge and techniques to solve problems outside the discipline. |
| 9 | Design, plan and conduct a physics experiment or project. |
| 10 | Address authentic problems in astrophysics, working professionally, responsibly and ethically and with consideration of cross-cultural perspectives, within collaborative, interdisciplinary teams. |
