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Introduction to Majors

A major is the main subject area that you choose to study in your degree. You will study courses up to Stage III level in this subject.

As well as gaining skills, knowledge and experience in your chosen area, you will learn how to think creatively, solve problems and communicate effectively, all essential skills to help you thrive in any career you choose.

Please see the main programme link below to see further details for the programme.

Subject Overview

Physics is arguably the most fundamental of all sciences. If you understand the principles of physics and the laws of nature you’ll have a sharp insight into the world around you. All of modern science and technology is underpinned by physics. A degree in Physics will give you an understanding of the nature of matter as well as training in experimental methods and the mathematical analysis of physical processes.

If you’d like to better understand the nature of matter, train in experimental methods and learn more about the mathematical analysis of physical processes, then Physics might be the subject for you.
The University of Auckland is ranked first in New Zealand for physics and astronomy, and we’re also ranked 123rd in the world for the natural sciences, which includes physics.*
*science.auckland.ac.nz/excellence

You can study Physics as a major in the Bachelor of Science (BSc).
As a Physics student you’ll find out how to undertake rigorous investigations into matter, the concepts of energy and force, and the laws of nature.
Our topics include:
- Acoustics
- Astronomy
- Electronics, including medical imaging and devices
- Fibre optics and telecommunications
- Lasers
- Meteorology
- Nuclear physics
- Quantum physics

Main Programme

Potential Careers

A Physics degree opens the door to a range of opportunities, and our vibrant research programme illustrates a variety of topics tackled by physicists.
Graduates can expect to find roles such as:
• Aircraft maintenance engineer
• Air quality management
• Astronomer
• Atmospheric scientist
• Meteorology
• Neurophysiology technologist
• Research
• Teacher
• Water resource management

Plan Schedule / Plan Rules

Complete 165 to 180 points comprising:

  • 15 points from Stage I Elective Courses, and
  • 15 points for all Stage I Physics Compulsory Course, and
  • Either:
  • 45 points from Mathematics Option 1 - General, or
  • 60 points for all Mathematics Option 2 - Algebra and Calculus, and
  • 45 points from Stage II Physics Elective Courses, and
  • 15 points from Group 1 Stage III Elective Courses, and
  • 30 points from Group 2 Stage III Elective Courses

Stage I Elective Courses

Complete exactly 15 points from the following:

Stage I Physics Compulsory Course

Complete 15 points for ALL of the following:

Mathematics Option 1 - General

Complete exactly 45 points from the following:

Mathematics Option 2 - Algebra and Calculus

Complete 60 points for ALL of the following:

Stage II Physics Elective Courses

Complete exactly 45 points from the following:

Group 1 Stage III Elective Courses

Complete exactly 15 points from the following:

Group 2 Stage III Elective Courses

Complete exactly 30 points from the following:

Disclaimer

Please note that while regulations and programme rules for future academic years may be displayed or made available in advance, they remain subject to change. Official, final approved programme regulations for the upcoming academic year will be available when the University Calendar is published in late October of the preceding year. Any information available prior to Calendar publication should be treated as provisional.

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