Bachelor of Science | 2017

Overview

Physics provides the basis for making, interpreting, and extending observations relating to the behaviour and structure of matter. It is fundamental to the study of all sciences and has a key role to play in generating and supporting new technologies.

Students majoring in Physics study mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, vibrations, waves, optics, quantum and statistical mechanics, with options in, including, cosmology, astrophysics, energy and environmental physics, complemented by a number of advanced mathematics subjects.

The following majors are on offer in this Bachelor of Science program:

• Physics
• Nuclear Science and Technology
• Photonics (Suspended for 2017)
• Physics and Mathematics (double major)

Entry Requirements

Academic requirements and English requirements are available from the Course Finder.

Course Learning Outcomes

Students graduating from the Bachelor of Science (Physics) will be able to:

1. Identify significant components of physical systems and describe their interactions.
2. Apply knowledge of fundamental physical laws to analyse behaviour and properties of a variety of physical systems.
3. Demonstrate foundational knowledge of research principles and methods associated with physics.
4. Integrate technical and cognitive skills in reviewing, analysing and synthesising information to address specific themes in physics.
5. Demonstrate knowledge of physical principles underlying a variety of measurement techniques.
6. Demonstrated ability to conduct and interpret experiments using contemporary scientific instruments.
7. Communicate knowledge and ideas clearly and coherently by written and oral means.

Course Structure

To complete the Bachelor of Science (Physics) students are required to complete:

1. 11 core subjects (66 credit points);
2. a major in Physics, Nuclear Science and Technology, Photonics (Suspended in 2017) or a double major in Physics and Mathematics, by completing the subjects listed under that major; 
3. a minimum of 144 credit points in total.  

• Physics
• Nuclear Science and Technology
• Photonics (Not available in 2017)
• Physics and Mathematics (Students must seek approval) 

Bachelor of Science (Physics)     

Students who wish to continue into Honours in Physics, further study in Physics, or just wish to complete additional Physics subjects, should complete the program of study below. It consists of subjects from the Physics major plus additional subjects.

Bachelor of Science (Nuclear Science and Technology) 

The objective of the Nuclear Science and Technology major is to provide the scientific knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in areas such as health physicists, nuclear technicians and radiation employees. Expansion in the uranium mining industry and monitoring of mid and high-level radioactive storage facilities will require specific expertise. The course builds on the expertise of the Centre for Medical Radiation Physics in dosimetry and radiation monitoring as well as nuclear technology and waste disposal.

Bachelor of Science (Photonics)**

** Not available in 2017

Photonics is a rapidly developing area associated with the development of detectors, light sources and optical fibres to support research and development in a wide range of industries including optoelectronics, telecommunications and defence. This major provides students with training which combines skills in experimental and theoretical physics and electronics with a strong background in optics, electronics and computing, necessary to begin a career in the photonics industry. It is structured around the existing core of Physics subjects.

Bachelor of Science (Physics and Mathematics)^

^ Student to apply via Bachelor of Science (Physics) and upon offer acceptance to seek admission approval from the Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences Head of Students.

This double major provides students with a deeper understanding of the complementary areas of physics and mathematics. Students will be eligible for employment in areas requiring qualifications in physics and mathematics and will particularly equip them for work in areas where they will undertake mathematical modelling of physical systems, for example in meteorology.

Advanced Honours

The Bachelor of Science Advanced (Honours) program is a 4 year degree which includes an honours year and offers majors in:

• Atmospheric Science
• Biomolecular Physics and
• Physics.  

Students with an average WAM of 80% or more may apply to transfer to the Advanced degree.  Information on the Advanced Honours Program is available at Bachelor of Science Advanced (Honours) (Physics).

Honours

Students with a good academic record are encouraged to proceed to an Honours year, a fourth year of study providing training in independent research. Further information on the Honours Program is available at Bachelor of Science (Honours) (Physics).

Credit Arrangements

Credit and articulation arrangements are available from the Course Finder. Refer to UOW's credit arrangements for information on how to apply for credit.

Professional Recognition/Accreditation

The Bachelor of Science (Physics) and the Honours degree conform to the requirements for membership of the Australian Institute of Physics.

Other Information

Further information is available at:
UOW Course Finder
Email: eis@uow.edu.au
Email: Academic Program Director