This course introduces students to key concepts and techniques in mathematical physics. Topics will be taken from mathematical areas relevant to contemporary research in mathematical physics, and will typically be either a topic in Algebra or (Differential) Geometry. The course will be mathematical in nature and does not require a background in physics.
Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but will be assessed separately.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- Explain the fundamental concepts of a special topic in mathematical physics.
- Demonstrate accurate and efficient use of specific mathematical physics techniques.
- Demonstrate capacity for mathematical reasoning through analysing, proving and explaining concepts from mathematical physics.
- Develop in-depth understanding of the material in order to be able to present new material to other students in an intelligible manner, and answer ad-hoc questions
Other Information
An example topic covered in the course is "Lie Algebras, Representation Theory and Applications". In which case there will be written lecture notes loosely based on the textbook by JE Humphreys, "Introduction to Lie algebras and Representation Theory".
Indicative Assessment
- Two written assignments (15% each) (30) [LO 1,2,3]
- Written open-book examination (55) [LO 2,3]
- Presentation (15) [LO 4]
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 3 x 1 hour lectures per week (36 hours) as well as 12 hours of workshop time.
- Approximately 82 hours of self-study per semester which will include preparation for lectures and assessment tasks.
Inherent Requirements
There are no course-specific inherent requirements.
Requisite and Incompatibility
Prescribed Texts
Written lecture notes or prescribed textbooks, depending on topic
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.
Second Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8317 | 27 Jul 2026 | 03 Aug 2026 | 31 Aug 2026 | 30 Oct 2026 | In Person | N/A |