What is a Special Project?
The equivalent of about 4 hours per week is spent in a research group within the School of Physics, working on a research experiment or theoretical project supervised by a researcher. The aim is for students to acquire an understanding of the nature of research by carrying out a project under the supervision of a researcher, and as part of a research group. This will allow students to apply their knowledge of physics and scientific practice and will serve as valuable preparation for a research project at Honours level and beyond (but note that a Senior Physics Special Project is not a prerequisite for doing Honours in Physics). This unit addresses several of the University's generic attributes, including: an appreciation of the requirements and characteristics of research; the ability to plan and achieve goals; and the ability to work with others.

What is involved?
Details of the aims, due dates, assessment, etc., are given in this PDF document.

How do I enrol?
The units that include a Special Project are PHYS 3941 (Semester 1) and PHYS 3961 (Semester 2) – see the Table of Units of Study. Approval for these units must be obtained from the . In practice, this means you need to identify a supervisor and a project.

What projects are available?
You need to find a supervisor and a project by looking at the list of projects offered (updated: 12-Nov-2009). You can also look at the Web pages describing Research Activities in the School. Please discuss possible projects with the staff members listed in these places. Once you have arranged a supervisor and project, ask the to sign a Special Permission form that allows you to enrol.

Can I do two Special Projects?
No, under normal circumstances only one of these Special Project units can be taken in a physics major. However, a student who is planning to do 30 credit points (or more) of Senior Physics may apply for permission to include a second Special Project.