Advanced Astrophysics unit (KYA428)

Hobart

Introduction

This unit is an elective coursework unit aimed at students enrolled in honours in physics. The objective is to provide a thorough grounding in the theoretical underpinnings and modern observational understanding of advanced topics in astrophysics including plasma physics, exoplanets, and binary stars. Study of this unit gives an in-depth exposure to the concepts and methods of modern astrophysical research at the forefront of science. Applications of physical principles in daily life and technology are kept in mind at all appropriate points in the course. Students are encouraged to develop their conceptual thinking ability, and to practice approximating real situations by modeling and simulation.

Summary

Unit name	Advanced Astrophysics
Unit code	KYA428
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences
Discipline	Physics
Coordinator	Doctor Karelle Siellez
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Honours

Availability

Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August

Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Semester 1	21/2/2027	15/3/2027	18/4/2027	12/6/2027

* 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

• Explain the physical principles underlying complex theoretical topics in astrophysics, cosmology, and plasma physics.
• Use the methods and tools of modern astrophysics to solve problems in a research setting.
• Find and organise information from appropriate sources to identify the important physical processes governing astrophysical phenomena.
• Critically assess observational evidence to test hypotheses and make predictions in astrophysics and cosmology.
• Synthesize complex astrophysical information and communicate conclusions in clear language to a variety of audiences.

Fee Information

2027 fee information will be available in August.

Requisites

Prerequisites

students must be enrolled in Honours, Masters, or PhD course in physics or a closely-related discipline.

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	3 x 1-hr lectures per week, 1 x 1-hr tutorial
Assessment	Presentation of Experimental Results (16.7%)|Research Project Oral Report (16.7%)|Problem Set Assignments (33.3%)|Research Project Report (33.3%)
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.