Study

Study Gravitational Astrophysics

Looking to get into gravitational wave science? Precision optics? Cosmology and astrophysics? There are several pathways to studying with the Centre for Gravitational Astrophysics, at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, by coursework or research. 

 

Study by Coursework

CGA academics are engaged with the teaching efforts of both Research Schools of Physics and Astronomy and Astrophysics, offering several undergraduate and postgraduate coursework options in instrumentation, optics, astronomy, and astrophysics. If you are already enrolled at ANU and looking to add a flavour of gravitational wave science to your program, consider the following courses taught/co-taught by CGA academics:  

Undergraduate/Postgraduate 

Postgraduate only 

  • Rapid Prototyping PHYS6701 

  • Prototyping and Systems Integration PHYS8702 

  • Advanced Imaging Methods and Systems PHYS8721 

  • Optical Instrumentation ASTR8016 

 

Master of Science in Precision Instrumentation and Measurement (Advance option available)

The Master of Science in Precision Instruments and Measurement (NSCPI - VSCPI) is a two-year master’s program which gives students an opportunity to develop the skills at the heart of precision measurement – including gravitational wave instrumentation. Students will have the opportunity to undertake coursework in optics, measurement, and rapid prototyping techniques.  

Master of Science in Astronomy & Astrophysics (Advance option available)

The Master of Science in Astronomy & Astrophysics (NSCAA - VSCAA) and is a two year program based upon 100% coursework. The coursework may be tailored to a student’s needs, and can include research projects related to gravitational wave and can be undertaken at CGA. 

The Advanced programs includes the opportunity for an extended research project, which if you are interested in gravitational wave science, can be undertaken with CGA researchers. To learn more about the research opportunities at CGA, see Study by Research or have a look at our projects page for what our academics are working on today! 

 

Study by Research 

Undergraduate Research 

If you are interested in an undergraduate research project and are enrolled at ANU, the CGA can host projects under the following programs: 

To organise a research project with CGA, have a look at the projects offered by and reach out to academics working on it to have a chat and see what it’s all about. Let them know what kind of research course you are looking to do, and we will try tailor a project for you. 

Postgraduate Research 

If you are interested in postgraduate research with CGA, there are several options available: 

  • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) 

  • Master of Science (Advanced) in Quantum Technology (VSCQT) 

  • Master of Science (Advanced) in Precision Instrumentation and Measurement (VSCPI) 

  • Master of Science (Advanced) in Astronomy and Astrophysics (VSCAA)

  • Master of Philosophy (MPhil) 

If you are undertaking a Master of Science (Advanced) program, you will have the option to undertake your Masters Research Project (PHYS8000 or ASTR8010) at CGA, provided it fits into the scope of your respective degree. To organise a Masters Research Project, reach out to the academics managing the project you are considering. 

To organise a research project as part of your application for a MPhil or PhD position, please reach out to the theme leaders in your project area of choice.  

 

Scholarships

PhD scholarship

PhD applicantions will automatically be considered for a generous stipend of $36,652 per annum. Elligible applicants will be offered an additional $5,000 supplentary scholarship. All PhD students will also benefit from a relocation and start-up allowance and a generous travel allowance for the duration of their PhD program. 

Honours Scholarship

CGA offers a generous scholarship of $10,000 for Honours programs in the field of gravitational wave instrumentation, Space technology and applied metrology. For more information about this scholarship and other opportunities visit Physics Undergraduate Scholarships webpage. 

Vacation Research Programs and Scholarships

Each year during the holiday periods between the semesters, short-term research projects become available. Winter or Summer Research Programs are funded programs that provide a great hands-on experiment for the third-year and Honours students to discover opportunities for research in the field of gravitational wave science and techonology. 

 

Updated:  25 October 2022/Responsible Officer:  Science Web/Page Contact:  Science Web