Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)

Physics students at the University of Tasmania have access to significant research opportunities, including the use of the University's Greenhill Observatory north of Hobart, which houses 50cm and 1.3m optical telescopes. Students can undertake Honours theses on real astronomical research topics, such as studying binary star systems like OY Carinae, and may go on to pursue a PhD in the department.

Yes, students can specialise in Astrophysics. For example, within the Bachelor of Science with Honours in Physics, students can study every astrophysics unit available in their second and third years and then specialise in areas such as optical astronomy for their Honours thesis.

The University of Tasmania's location in the southern hemisphere gives it a unique observational advantage for studying celestial objects near the south celestial pole that are impossible or difficult to observe from most of the northern hemisphere. The University also operates the Greenhill Observatory north of Hobart, equipped with 50cm and 1.3m optical telescopes for student and staff research.

According to student Morgan Febey, the Maths/Physics department offers incredible support from mentors and teachers, as well as an enthusiastic academic environment. She noted that there is a great deal of amazing research coming out of the department, with faculty members always publishing new work and engaging with students about their research.

Yes, Honours students can continue into postgraduate research. For instance, Morgan Febey, who is completing her Bachelor of Science with Honours in Physics specialising in Astrophysics, plans to make her Honours thesis topic the subject of a future PhD within the University of Tasmania's physics department.