If you have a high UAI (or equivalent) then there is a special physics program for you! The School of Physics Talented Student Program (TSP) is part of the Faculty of Science Talented Student Program. The program is offered by invitation of the Dean of Science on the basis of UAI score for first year students, and examination performance and Weighted Average Mark (WAM) for students in subsequent years (see the Faculty information for details). In special circumstances, Physics may allow a small additional number of highly achieving students to participate in Physics TSP activities.

This program extends the physics course by special seminars and project work, together with a major excursion in the second semester break to a location of interest. The seminar program has a theme each year. In recent years the themes have been `communications', `the quantum world', `the arrow of time' and `self organised systems'. In 2003 we are focussing on research highlights in the School of Physics.

The special project work introduces students directly to research activities in the School and to other staff members and postdocs. The aim is to broaden your knowledge of physics and give you an insight into how physicists think and how a real research project is tackled. There is also an emphasis on cross disciplinary subjects and the relation of physics to the community as a whole. Check out below the diverse range of topics covered in the 2002 and 2001 TSP projects. All the oral presentations were made in PowerPoint, and you can download selected presentations by clicking on the title pages.

Why do a program that involves extra work? Students in the program are the top students of their year. You will get special tuition and attention. As well, you will enjoy the company of other talented students working on special projects.

The Talented Student Program coordinators are Profs David McKenzie and Dick Hunstead. Contact them for more information.