Physics Department 
Honours Projects

Within a student’s degree requirements, the Honours project is a course, like any other, in the context of a full course load. However, the project provides a unique opportunity, compared to typical courses, to gain experience carrying out supervised research and developing the associated skills and techniques required. Students will gain a detailed understanding the specific project material, but should alsso develop a broader view and knowledge of the broader area of physics in which the project is situated. Typically, students find that the honours project is one of the most interesting and rewarding elements of their undergraduate studies.

Honours projects are a required component for all students in Physics B.Sc. Honours programs. Students in the combined programs with Biology, Chemistry, or Mathematics can choose to complete their project either with the Physics Department or in the alternate discipline. While most students choose to do the [1.0] credit PHYS 4909, there is also the option of one term projects: [0.5] credit PHYS 4907 (Fall) or PHYS 4908 (Winter). The remaining [0.5] credit can be satisfied with a course in PHYS at the 4000-level.

Students should arrange to do a project with an available supervisor. The supervisor should then notify the Course Coordinator and Academic Administrator, Joanne Martin, of the project and student to be supervised.

It is expected that each student will spend approximately 6 hours per week on project-related activities. The student and supervisor should agree on the timing of regularly scheduled meetings to discuss the details and progress of the project.

A written mid-course report will be due to the student’s supervisor on December 9, 2023 for the PHYS 4909 (or midway through the relevant term for PHYS 4907 or PHYS 4908). It is very useful to use the mid-course report to get an understanding of the expectations for your final report. Take the opportunity of the mid-course report to articulate your plans for the rest of the project. The final report for PHYS 4907 is Dec 9, 2023 and for PHYS 4908 and 4909 is April 12, 2024.

Listed below are suggested projects with supervisors in the Carleton Physics Department. Students should contact supervisors offering projects of interest and select a project with an available supervisor. The supervisor should then notify the Course Coordinator and Academic Administrator Joanne Martin of the project and student to be supervised. Projects not listed below can be pursued if a suitable supervisor is available.

In addition, projects can be carried out at the University of Ottawa. In this case, students should provide a summary of the proposed project to the course coordinator before registration. Please consult the project information at University of Ottawa pages.

Professor Thomas Koffas
Herzberg Room 2410
(613) 520-2600 ext. 8996
koffas@physics.carleton.ca