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Introduction to String Theory (MAST90069)
Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5Not available in 2021
Please refer to the return to campus page for more information on these delivery modes and students who can enrol in each mode based on their location.
Overview
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The first half of this subject is an introduction to two-dimensional conformal field theory with emphasis on the operator formalism and explicit calculations. The second half is an introduction to string theory based on the first half. For concreteness, the representation theory of Virasoro algebra and bosonic strings will be emphasized.
Intended learning outcomes
After completing this subject students should:
- have learnt the basics of two-dimensional Conformal Field Theory (CFT), including basic representation of Virasoro algebra, the Hilbert space of states, of free bosons, and conformal blocks;
- have learnt the basic theory of bosonic strings, including the origin of the critical dimension, computations of tree amplitudes, etc;
- appreciate the role of role of conformal field theory in string theory;
- have the ability to pursue further studies in these and related areas.
Generic skills
In addition to learning specific skills that will assist students in their future careers in science, they will have the opportunity to develop generic skills that will assist them in any future career path. These include:
- problem-solving skills: the ability to engage with unfamiliar problems and identify relevant solution strategies;
- analytical skills: the ability to construct and express logical arguments and to work in abstract or general terms to increase the clarity and efficiency of analysis;
- collaborative skills: the ability to work in a team;
- time-management skills: the ability to meet regular deadlines while balancing competing commitments.
Last updated: 3 November 2022
Eligibility and requirements
Prerequisites
All of
Code | Name | Teaching period | Credit Points |
---|---|---|---|
MAST30021 | Complex Analysis |
Semester 2 (Dual-Delivery - Parkville)
Semester 1 (Dual-Delivery - Parkville)
|
12.5 |
MAST20009 | Vector Calculus |
Semester 1 (Dual-Delivery - Parkville)
Semester 2 (Dual-Delivery - Parkville)
|
12.5 |
Or equivalent.
Corequisites
None
Non-allowed subjects
No disallowed subject combinations among new-generation subjects.
Recommended background knowledge
No prior knowledge of physics is assumed.
Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)
The University of Melbourne is committed to providing students with reasonable adjustments to assessment and participation under the Disability Standards for Education (2005), and the Assessment and Results Policy (MPF1326). Students are expected to meet the core participation requirements for their course. These can be viewed under Entry and Participation Requirements for the course outlines in the Handbook.
Further details on how to seek academic adjustments can be found on the Student Equity and Disability Support website: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/student-equity/home
Last updated: 3 November 2022
Assessment
Description | Timing | Percentage |
---|---|---|
Up to 40 pages of written assignments (two assignments worth 20% each, due mid and late in semester)
| Second half of the teaching period | 40% |
A written examination
| During the examination period | 60% |
Last updated: 3 November 2022
Dates & times
Not available in 2021
Time commitment details
170 hours
Last updated: 3 November 2022
Further information
- Texts
Prescribed texts
Lecture notes available online.
Recommended texts and other resources
Lecture notes available online.
- Related Handbook entries
This subject contributes to the following:
Type Name Course Master of Science (Mathematics and Statistics) Course Doctor of Philosophy - Engineering Course Ph.D.- Engineering Course Master of Philosophy - Engineering Informal specialisation Mathematics and Statistics - Available through the Community Access Program
About the Community Access Program (CAP)
This subject is available through the Community Access Program (also called Single Subject Studies) which allows you to enrol in single subjects offered by the University of Melbourne, without the commitment required to complete a whole degree.
Entry requirements including prerequisites may apply. Please refer to the CAP applications page for further information.
Last updated: 3 November 2022