University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: Available only to MPhys Astrophysics or MSc Astrophysics students.

This module will provide an annual survey of the latest, most interesting, developments in astronomy and astrophysics at the research level. Emphasis will be placed upon the application of knowledge and expertise gained by students in their other modules to these current research topics.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): For MPhys: before taking this module you must pass AS4010, AS4012, PH3061 and PH3081. For MSc: students must have substantial astronomy knowledge and skills.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 3 lectures or tutorials

Scheduled learning hours: 30

Guided independent study hours: 120

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 100%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 0%

Re-assessment: Oral Re-assessment, capped at grade 7

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr A Weijmans

Additional information from school

AS5003 - Contemporary Astrophysics

Overview

Astrophysics is a constantly changing field in which new observations and theories are continually revising our knowledge and outlook. This course provides a view of research level astrophysics and the opportunity to apply the accumulated knowledge of the astrophysics degree to new problems.

Aims & Objectives

To introduce the students to research level astrophysics including several independent topics of current research. To use the knowledge base, applied to novel problems. To familiarise the students with the process of modelling physics in astrophysical contexts.

Learning Outcomes

The student will be able to use his/her accumulated knowledge and apply it to topics of current astrophysical research. Specifically, the student will be able to comprehend the primary concepts in research level astrophysics topics; formulate an approach to novel and unsolved problems; understand the different techniques and approaches used in various topics; make critical judgement of the merit of research papers in astrophysics.

Synopsis

This is a continually evolving module that introduces the student to two or three main topics of astrophysical research. Topics covered are selected by the teaching staff, and may include dynamics, gravitational lensing, general relativity, cosmological simulations, planet formation and young stellar objects, exoplanets, stellar activity, stellar and planetary atmospheres, interacting binaries, astrophysical discs, active galactic nuclei.

Accreditation Matters

This module may not contain material that is part of the IOP “Core of Physics”, but does contribute to the wider and deeper learning expected in an accredited degree programme.  The skills developed in this module, and others, contribute towards the requirements of the IOP “Graduate Skill Base”.

Recommended Books

Please view University online record:

http://resourcelists.st-andrews.ac.uk/modules/as5003.html

General Information

Please also read the general information in the School's honours handbook that is available via https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/physics-astronomy/students/ug/timetables-handbooks/.