General Relativity unit (KYA424)

Hobart

Introduction

KYA424 (General Relativity) is an elective coursework unit designed for Physics and Mathematics Honours students. In this unit, you will learn the theoretical foundations and modern applications of Einstein’s theory of gravity. You will develop the mathematical framework of spacetime, tensors, and differential geometry, and use these tools to understand gravity as a geometric property of the Universe.

Throughout the unit, you will explore key physical phenomena, including black holes, gravitational redshift, the deflection of light, and the evolution of the Universe within the standard cosmological model. You will integrate theory and practice through analytical problem-solving, computational modelling, and the interpretation of observational data. By the end of the unit, you will be able to apply relativistic methods in a range of astrophysical and cosmological contexts, and critically evaluate theoretical predictions using modern observations and experimental evidence.

This unit supports the development of key capabilities within the University of Tasmania Graduate Capability Framework. You will strengthen your Systems Thinking and Analysis (Inquire), Adaptive Excellence (Excel), and Creative Innovation (Create) capabilities through advanced, discipline-specific learning in physics. You will engage with complex physical systems, develop advanced disciplinary reasoning, and apply computational and analytical methods to solve problems consistent with AQF-level expectations. You will also develop aspects of Relational Intelligence (Connect) through scientific communication, and Digital Citizenship through the responsible use of computational and analytical tools.

Summary

Unit name	General Relativity
Unit code	KYA424
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences
Discipline	Physics
Coordinator	Associate Professor Krzysztof Bolejko
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Honours

Availability

Location	Study period	Attendance options		Available to
Hobart	Semester 1

Note

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Units are offered in attending mode unless otherwise indicated (that is attendance is required at the campus identified). A unit identified as offered by distance, that is there is no requirement for attendance, is identified with a nominal enrolment campus. A unit offered to both attending students and by distance from the same campus is identified as having both modes of study.

Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Semester 1	22/02/2027	16/03/2027	19/04/2027	13/06/2027

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2027 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2027 will be available from the 1st October 2026. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

• Apply relativistic concepts and mathematical methods to solve physical problems and interpret astronomical and laboratory observations.
• Analyse and apply solutions to the Einstein field equations for black holes and cosmological models.
• Evaluate the evidence for General Relativity from observations, and critically assess alternative theories.
• Model the Universe at its largest scales and critically evaluate cosmological observations.
• Develop, implement and apply computational and numerical methods to model relativistic systems and analyse physical phenomena.

Fee Information

Field of Education	Commencing Student Contribution 1,3	Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3	Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3	Domestic Full Fee 4
010301	$1,235.00	$1,235.00	not applicable

• Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
• HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility³
• FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility⁴

¹ Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
² Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
³ Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
⁴ Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Prerequisites

Electromagnetism and Thermodynamics unit (KYA212) Calculus and Applications 2 (KMA252) Linear Algebra and Differential Equations (KMA254) Students must have completed the listed prerequisite units or demonstrate equivalent prior knowledge. Where prerequisite requirements are not met, enrolment may be permitted with the approval of the Unit Coordinator.

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	3 x 1-hr lectures per week, 1 x 1-h tutorial per week
Assessment	Assignment 1 (16%)|Assignment 2 (16%)|Assignment 3 (16%)|Assignment 4 (16%)|Assignment 5 (16%)|Examination (20%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.