University of St Andrews - Scotland's first university, founded 1413

Module Catalogue

For information on which modules are specific to your programme, please see : Programme requirements index 2017-2018.

Curricular information may be subject to change.

AS1101 Astrophysics (Direct Entry)

Academic year(s): 2017-2018

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 5

ECTS credits : 2

Level : SCQF level 7

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: Available only to Direct Second level Entry students in Physics or Astrophysics

Planned timetable: at 2 weeks

This module provides a streamlined introduction to the science of astrophysics for students who have taken direct entry to Second level and who are planning to take level two astrophysics later in the same academic session. It covers the essential items of observational astrophysics and how the radiation that is detected on Earth can be used to develop a physical model of the Sun, stars, planets, our Galaxy and external galaxies as well as the Universe as a whole. Topics will include stellar evolution, the rotation curves of galaxies and the need for Dark Matter as well as the expanding Universe, Dark Energy and cosmology.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): "Direct entry to level two at the University of St Andrews with a degree intention of Astrophysics, Physics, Theoretical Physics or a joint degree with one of these."

Co-requisite(s): You must also take PH2011

Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take this module if you take AS1001 or take AS1002 or take PH1501

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1.5-hour lecture (x 8 weeks), 2.5-hour practical work (x 2 weeks) 1-hour tutorial (x 4 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours: 23

Guided independent study hours: 27

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework (Class test = 50%, laboratory work = 25%, take-home exam = 15%, online quizzes = 10%) = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 75%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 25%

Re-assessment: 1-hour Written Examination = 75%, Existing Laboratory work = 25%

Personnel

Module teaching staff: Dr A-M Weijmans

Additional information from school

Please see also the information in the School’s Handbook for First and Second Level modules available via https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/physics/staff_students/timetables.php. This link also gives access to timetables for such modules.