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.

How is my work assessed? Details of the aims, assessment, etc., are given in the Projects Outline.

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? It is your job to find a supervisor and a project. The list of projects offered (last updated: 25-May-2008) is a good place to start. The list is updated once a year, mid-way through Semester 1, because most students do their projects in Semester 2. But there is no problem with doing a project in Semester 1. Even if some of the listed projects have already been done, most supervisors would be able to suggest other projects. 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? 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.