This course is a core component of a Master degree in Theoretical Physics. It is intended for an advanced study of the theory of quantum fields, including quantization of scalar, vector and spinor fields, renormalized perturbation theory, Feynman diagrams, and spontaneous symmetry breaking. The course also contains basics of the theory of non-abelian gauge fields, which describe strong and electroweak interactions within the Standard Model of particle physics. The theory is developed in a systematic manner, incorporates methods of quantum mechanics, relativity and provides various examples in the context of elementary particle physics. The course therefore allows students to tie together and contextualise a number of concepts that they have learned throughout their undergraduate studies.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- Understand the particle content, properties, and predict, qualitatively and quantitatively, the behaviour of quantum field theory models involving scalar, vector and spinor fields;
- Understand the role of (gauge) symmetries and the ability to understand their implications in terms of particle phenomenology of a given model;
- Apply Feynman rules to calculate probabilities for processes with particles (decay and scattering) both at tree and loop level;
- Have a complete understanding of the Standard Model of particle physics and the ablity to understand its possible extensions;
- Describe Goldstone and Higgs mechanism, and spontaneous symmetry breaking in Abelian and non-Abelian theories;
- Use high energy physics codes to derive Feynman rules and calculate scattering probabilities;
- Communicate effectively in oral and written formats
Indicative Assessment
- Assignments x 9 (30) [LO 1,2,3,4,5,6,7]
- Mid-semester written exam (30) [LO 1,2,3]
- Final oral exam (30) [LO 1,2,3,4,5,6,7]
- Research Topic Presentation (10) [LO 1,2,4,5,6,7]
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours throughout the semester including:
- Face-to face component which may consist of 1x 2 hour lectures per week and 1 x 2 hour workshop per week.
- Approximately 82 hours of self-directed study which will include preparation for lectures and other assessment tasks.
Inherent Requirements
To be determined
Requisite and Incompatibility
Prescribed Texts
M.Peskin, D.Schroeder, ``An Introduction to Quantum Field Theory", ISBN 0-201-50397-2
Preliminary Reading
Ta-PeiCheng, Ling-Fong Li, , ``Gauge Theory of Elementary Particle Physics"", ISBN 9780198519614
Ian J R Aitchison, Anthony J.G. Hey, ``Gauge Theories in Particle Physics", VOl I&II,ISBN 9781466513174
Franz Mandl, Graham Shaw, ``Quantum Field Theory", ISBN 9781118716656
Matthew D. Schwartz, ``Quantum Field Theory and the Standard Model" ISBN 9781107034730
Assumed Knowledge
Classical and quantum mechanics, classical electrodynamics, special relativity, elements of quantum field theory.
Knowledge equivalent to MATH1116 Advanced Mathematics and Applications 2: Excellent knowledge of calculus and linear algebra (gradient, maximisation/minimisation in multiple dimensions and under constraints, matrix diagonalisation, symmetric and hermitian matrices).
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
Commonwealth Support (CSP) Students
If you have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). More information about your student contribution amount for each course at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 2
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are a domestic graduate coursework student with a Domestic Tuition Fee (DTF) place or international student you will be required to pay course tuition fees (see below). Course tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
First Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2827 | 23 Feb 2026 | 02 Mar 2026 | 31 Mar 2026 | 29 May 2026 | In Person | N/A |