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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

Knowledge and Skills

Whether your interest lies in pure physics or a multidisciplinary field, postgraduate study in Physics offers you a wide-range of research options.
From inventing new kinds of lasers, creating innovative technologies to diagnose illness in living tissue, understanding the earth’s changing climate, searching for planets around distant stars, to understanding the connections between particle physics and the Big Bang - our graduates are well-equipped to work in industry and academia.
You will gain an understanding of the nature of the physical world, alongside training in experimental methods, and the mathematical analysis of physical processes.

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

Schedule

Schedule Notes

Prerequisite: A major in Physics or its equivalent approved by the Academic Head or nominee

Plan Schedules

Complete 120 points comprising:

  • 45 points from Physics Elective Courses, and
  • 45 points from Additional Elective Courses, and
  • Either:
  • 30 points for all Research Project - 1 Semester, or
  • 30 points for all Research Project - 2 Semesters

Additional Elective Courses

Complete exactly 45 points from the following:

Up to 30 points may be substituted from other 700 level courses offered at this University approved by the Programme Director.

Research Project - 1 Semester

Complete 30 points for ALL of the following:

Research Project - 2 Semesters

Complete 30 points for ALL of the following: