Bachelor of Science (High Performance Computational Physics) (Honours) (BSc(HighPerfComputPhys)(Hons))

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Program Code
HSCHP

Program Faculty
Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology

Academic Year
2025

These Program Rules should be read in conjunction with the University's policies (https://www.adelaide.edu.au/policies).

This program introduces students to the sophisticated high performance computing techniques required for the solution of cutting-edge problems in theoretical, computational and mathematical physics. Students will be able to develop skills to program parallel supercomputers using state of the art computer language and gain the mathematical and computational skills necessary to solve challenging problems at the forefront of physics. The program consists of core studies in physics, mathematics and computing science with an electrical engineering option in first year. Second year develops these areas of study further, with a focus on physics and applied mathematics, while third year involves advanced courses in physics. Students undertake the final year Honours program in theoretical physics which includes a research project plus specialised courses in computer science and mathematics, allowing them to underpin skills in high-performance computing.

The Bachelor of Science (High Performance Computational Physics) (Honours) is an AQF Level 8 program with a standard full-time duration of 4 years.

Program Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate a coherent understanding of science, and in particular, high performance computational physics, by: 1.1 articulating the methods of science and explaining why current scientific knowledge is both contestable and testable by further inquiry 1.2 explaining the role and relevance of science in society 1.3 demonstrating an insight of the key theoretical and practical aspects of their final year project area and its context within the broader scope of science and society.
Exhibit depth and breadth of scientific knowledge in relation to high performance computational physics by: 2.1 demonstrating well-developed knowledge in at least one disciplinary area 2.2 demonstrating knowledge in at least one other disciplinary area 2.3 demonstrating knowledge and skills appropriate to their final year project area.
Critically analyse and solve scientific problems in high performance computational physics by: 3.1 gathering, synthesising and critically evaluating computational physics information from a range of sources 3.2 designing and planning an investigation 3.3 selecting and applying practical and/or theoretical techniques or tools in order to conduct an investigation 3.4 collecting, accurately recording, interpreting and drawing conclusions from scientific data 3.5 analysing and critically evaluating both quantitative and qualitative data relating to their final year project area.
Be effective communicators of science by: 4.1 communicating scientific results, information, or arguments, to a range of audiences, for a range of purposes, and using a variety of modes 4.2 presenting results of their final year project in both written format (including graphical formats where appropriate) and oral formats using appropriate scientific conventions, industry requirements and cultural contexts.
Be accountable for their own learning and professional work by: 5.1 being independent and self-directed learners 5.2 working effectively, responsibly and safely in an individual or team context 5.3 demonstrating knowledge of the regulatory frameworks relevant to their disciplinary area and personally practicing ethical conduct 5.4 demonstrating and articulating personal capabilities in preparation for employment.

Interruption of program: Students must apply for permission from the Executive Dean or delegate before taking a Leave of Absence. Any extension of the leave without approval will result in the loss of place in the program but an application may be made to be re-admitted to the program subject to the admission procedures in place at the time.

Program Maximum Duration: As specified in Table 1 of the Coursework Academic Programs Policy, this program must be completed within a Maximum Duration which includes any periods of non-enrolment, leave of absence or approved study at other institutions for credit towards a Program.

Academic Program Rules for Bachelor of Science (High Performance Computational Physics) (Honours)

There shall be a Bachelor of Science (High Performance Computational Physics) (Honours).

To qualify for the degree of Bachelor of Science (High Performance Computational Physics) (Honours), the student must complete satisfactorily a program of study consisting of the following requirements with a combined total of not less than 96 units, comprising:

Core courses to the value of 75 units.
Elective courses to the value of 21 units.
Level I courses not exceeding 30 units.
Level III and IV courses to the value of 48 units.
A major in Theoretical Physics.

Core Courses
Electives

Core Courses

To satisfy the requirements for Core Courses students must complete courses to the value of 75 units.

Level I