Physics
Physics is the ultimate science of nature. Its purpose is to study natural phenomena and to derive the principles and laws that rule all natural processes. As a Physics student, you will benefit from exposure to the cutting‐edge research interests of our faculty members in renewable energy, semiconductor devices, microelectronics, nanotechnology, materials science, biophysics, computational physics and astrophysics.
You can pursue your studies through the Bachelor of Science (Honours) Physics program, or choose to specialize in either Astrophysics or Nanotechnology and Clean Energy.
Courses core to all Physics programs include:
- Differential Equations
- Electricity and Magnetism
- Electronics
- Linear Algebra
- Mechanics
- Quantum Mechanics
- Statistical Mechanics
- Waves and Optics
These programs have a co-op option, as well as extended and experiential learning opportunities, including a fourth-year undergraduate thesis and the five-year Science and Management program option.
Program options
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Physics
Force, motion, light, sound, electricity, magnetism and the structure of matter lie at the heart of the natural sciences and technology. The Honours Physics program provides a broad coverage of these fundamental topics, and provides you with the flexibility to take elective courses in a different science discipline, as well as tailor some of your upper-year Physics courses to your interests.
Courses beyond the first year include:
- Condensed Matter
- Electricity and Magnetism
- Fluid Dynamics
- Mathematical Physics
- Quantum Mechanics
- Waves and Optics
Potential career and advanced education opportunities include:
- consulting
- data science
- governmental agencies (e.g. research laboratory or Department of National Defence)
- secondary school teaching (through the university's Concurrent or Consecutive Education program)
- science communication
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Physics - Astrophysics specialization
Some of the largest unsolved problems in physics are in the field of astrophysics. You will explore the current state of knowledge in astrophysics, examine new and emerging theories, and utilize modern techniques to analyze and solve problems in astronomy and astrophysics. As a student in the Astrophysics specialization, you will develop extensive knowledge in physics and math, as well as strong analytical and computational skills.
In addition to the core Physics courses, you will also take:
- Astronomy I - introduces the fundamentals of astronomy and the solar system.
- Astronomy II - offers a detailed look at stars, galaxies and the physics of astronomy.
- Techniques of Modern Astrophysics - covers instrumentation and data analysis as well as computational astrophysics.
- Cosmology - an examination of the universe as a whole, from the big bang to the current epoch.
Upon completion of your degree, you will be ready for graduate work and a wide variety of career options in astronomy and physics. Astrophysics graduates go on to successful careers in research, government, publishing, teaching and more.
Potential career and advanced education opportunities include:
- computing and aerospace sectors
- observational astronomy
- observatory technician
- remote sensing
- theoretical astrophysics
An undergraduate Physics degree with a specialization in Astrophysics will also allow you to pursue graduate studies in astronomy and astrophysics.
Admission requirements
Program map -
Physics - Nanotechnology and Clean Energy Specialization
This specialization is designed to meet the urgent demand for graduates with the knowledge and skills to address global issues of escalating energy consumption and declining resources. It emphasizes expertise in alternative and conventional energy, with particular focus on the application of nanotechnology to developing clean energy solutions. You will learn the scientific principles underlying the field of nanotechnology along with the development of novel and economical means of generating and harvesting energy, while simultaneously minimizing their environmental impact.
In addition to the core Physics courses, you will benefit from the following Nanotechnology and Clean Energy courses:
- Biophysics
- Emerging Energy Systems
- Hydrogen-based Energy Systems and Fuel Cells
- Physics of Nanotechnology
- Introductory Environment Science
- Solar Energy and Photovoltaics
Potential career and advanced education opportunities include:
- consulting
- clean energy
- energy supply
- nanotechnology research and development
Program map
