From the Solar System to the Cosmos (PHYC10008)
Undergraduate level 1Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)
Overview
| Availability | Semester 2 |
|---|---|
| Fees | Look up fees |
This subject will explore all aspects of the universe we live in from our solar system to the Milky Way and beyond. It will focus on why human beings have become interested in the extra-terrestrial world, and how they have explored it. In particular, the subject will explore the ideas of modern cosmology, with an up-to-date discussion of the latest discoveries. Important basic concepts in Mathematics and Science will be taught as required.
Intended learning outcomes
To enable students to understand the basic structure of the universe we live in, and to develop their capacity to:
- cultivate an appreciation and understanding of the scientific method of enquiry, particularly as applied to astronomical questions
- explore and understand the major unresolved questions: What is dark matter? What is dark energy? Is there life on other planets?
- understand and explain key objects in the universe, such as stars, galaxies, cosmology and solar systems
- learn and use basic scientific and mathematical ideas to explain the formation and evolution of these objects
Generic skills
A student who completes this subject should be able to:
- explain their understanding of scientific principles and applications lucidly, both in writing and orally;
- participate as an effective member of a group in laboratory and study groups;
- think independently and analytically, and direct his or her own learning; and
- manage time effectively in order to be prepared for regular practical classes, tests and the examination.
Last updated: 4 April 2025
Eligibility and requirements
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Non-allowed subjects
None
Recommended background knowledge
Mathematics and Science at Year 10 level as a minimum.
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: 4 April 2025
Assessment
| Description | Timing | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
Ongoing assessment of practical work | During the teaching period | 25% |
Ten weekly assignments | 15% | |
A test | Mid semester | 10% |
A written examination
| During the examination period | 50% |
Last updated: 4 April 2025
Dates & times
- Semester 2
Coordinator Michele Trenti Mode of delivery On Campus (Parkville) Contact hours 3 x one hour lectures per week; 28 hours of practical work (8 x three hour workshops including practical work and up to 30 minutes of pre-workshop activity). Total time commitment 170 hours Teaching period 22 July 2024 to 20 October 2024 Last self-enrol date 2 August 2024 Census date 2 September 2024 Last date to withdraw without fail 20 September 2024 Assessment period ends 15 November 2024 Semester 2 contact information
Time commitment details
Estimated total time commitment of 170 hours
What do these dates mean
Visit this webpage to find out about these key dates, including how they impact on:
- Your tuition fees, academic transcript and statements.
- And for Commonwealth Supported students, your:
- Student Learning Entitlement. This applies to all students enrolled in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP).
Subjects withdrawn after the census date (including up to the ‘last day to withdraw without fail’) count toward the Student Learning Entitlement.
Additional delivery details
This subject requires all students to actively and safely participate in laboratory activities.
Last updated: 4 April 2025
Further information
- Texts
- Related Handbook entries
This subject contributes to the following:
Type Name Informal specialisation Science Discipline subjects - new generation B-SCI - Breadth options
This subject is available as breadth in the following courses:
- Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Bachelor of Design
- Bachelor of Environments
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Acting)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Animation)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Dance)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Film and Television)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Music Theatre)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Production)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Screenwriting)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Theatre)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Visual Art)
- Bachelor of Music
- 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.
Please note Single Subject Studies via Community Access Program is not available to student visa holders or applicants
Entry requirements including prerequisites may apply. Please refer to the CAP applications page for further information.
- Available to Study Abroad and/or Study Exchange Students
Last updated: 4 April 2025