Astrophysics

Astrophysics is the science that endeavours to understand the Universe and its contents through observations and the applications of physical laws. The phenomena we seek to explain include the distribution of matter on the largest scales, and the nature and behavior of celestial objects; these objects include galaxies and quasars, stars and planets, comets, pulsars and black holes. Astrophysics links the smallest and largest objects in the Universe, from cosmic rays to super clusters of galaxies. The subject deals with big questions, such as the ultimate fate of the Universe and the possibility of extra-terrestrial life. We address these questions by using theory, observations made with the largest telescopes and calculations done on the world's largest supercomputers. Astronomical observations are made using a multitude of different telescopes located around the globe and in space. These telescopes gather data from across the entire electromagnetic spectrum.

Monash is home to world-leading experts in observational and theoretical astrophysics, whose expertise contributes directly to the content of the undergraduate astrophysics program. The program will introduce you to all of the skills and tools required in modern astronomy and astrophysics, from observing with sophisticated telescopes to the development of numerical codes for supercomputers. We are also developing new ways of teaching physics and astronomy. At first year this centres on the Physics and Astronomy Collaborative-learning Environment (PACE). First year classes are held in the PACE Studios which are custom-designed to encourage independent learning, and to promote the problem solving, effective communication and team work highly valued by employers. We are forging a community of students who are proactive learners, able to apply their knowledge and skills in creative ways.

Modern astrophysics draws heavily on physics, mathematics, computation and numerical analysis, and the Monash astrophysics program provides excellent training in both contemporary science and cutting-edge problem-solving. So our graduates find work in areas that require analytical people with highly developed problem-solving skills; this includes government, finance, business, private industry, science journalism and teaching, as well as research laboratories, universities and planetariums. For those who wish to pursue studies beyond their undergraduate degree, our postgraduate program can equip those who intend to pursue a professional career in astronomy or astrophysics.

Availability

Astrophysics is listed in S2000 Bachelor of Science, S3001 Bachelor of Science Advanced - Global Challenges (Honours) and S3002 Bachelor of Science Advanced - Research (Honours) at Clayton as a major, extended major or minor.

Outcomes

In addition to achieving the broad outcomes of their course, students successfully completing this major and extended major will be able to:

• explain how knowledge in astrophysics is constructed as part of continually evolving conceptual frameworks developed from observation, mathematical analysis and numerical modelling, and built around a core of unifying fundamental concepts
• appreciate astrophysics as a creative, social endeavour which provides intellectual pleasure and contributes to society and its development through applications to past, current and future technologies
• demonstrate the effective use of specialised astronomical equipment, including telescopes and their instrumentation
• gain employment requiring any combination of experimental, numerical, computational, analytical, and problem solving skills, or undertake further learning in astronomy and astrophysics related disciplines.