Bachelor

Bachelor of Science (Major in Physics)

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science majoring in Physics explores the most fundamental of all sciences — physics describes how the physical world works, seeks to understand the behaviour and structure of matter, and investigates the nature of space and time. Physics is increasingly inter-disciplinary and its methods are applied across all scientific disciplines.

Study programmes within the Physics major include Pure (Theoretical) Physics, Energy and Environmental Physics, Electronics Technology Systems, Electronics/Computing Technology, Physics/Chemistry/Earth Sciences, and Biomedical Physics. Career opportunities include the aviation industry, computer and electronics industries, the energy sector, banking and IT, and teaching at national high schools and tertiary institutions (after completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Science). All students must demonstrate mathematical ability as a prerequisite for physics courses.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for selection into the Science Foundation Year (SFY), applicants must have successfully completed Grade 12 from a recognised institution. Requirements are strict:

  • Minimum overall GPA of 3.20 (in practice, applicants with higher GPAs are generally considered).
  • Minimum grade of B in English — a grade of C automatically disqualifies the applicant.
  • Minimum grade of A in Advanced Mathematics (Maths A) — General Mathematics (Maths B) cannot substitute for Advanced Mathematics.
  • Minimum grade of B in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics at Grade 12 level.
  • Intake is limited by a strict quota system.

Non-School Leavers must complete all three sciences in addition to English, and must complete Applied Finite Mathematics if upgrading Mathematics A. They must meet the minimum GPA of 3.20 and will be recommended to enrol at the NCD Open Campus if all requirements are met.

Course Structure

Year 1

Semester 1

  • 1.10902Physics IA

Semester 2

  • 1.10903Physics IB

Year 2

Semester 1

  • 1.20905Electricity & Magnetism
  • 1.20906Mechanics & Thermodynamics
  • 1.20945Essentials of Astronomy

Semester 2

  • 1.20902Radiation Physics
  • 1.20903Vibration Waves & Optics
  • 1.20908Introduction to Electronics
  • 1.20909Physics of Materials
  • 1.20946Robotics & Automation

Year 3

Semester 1

  • 1.30901Thermal Physics
  • 1.30909Electronics
  • 1.30914Physics of Electronic Devices
  • 1.30915Introduction to Meteorology
  • 1.30916Quantum Physics

Semester 2

  • 1.30908Classical Mechanics
  • 1.30910Energy Development Technology
  • 1.30911Introduction to Climate Studies
  • 1.30912Computer Architecture
  • 1.30913Introductory Electronics Communications
  • 1.30903Work Experience

Year 4

Semester 1

  • 1.40903Computer Interfacing
  • 1.40911Physics of Climate
  • 1.40919Photovoltaic Systems
  • 1.40930Applied Electromagnetism

Semester 2

  • 1.40902Modern Physics
  • 1.40905Environmental Physics
  • 1.40908Signal Processing & Applications
  • 1.40915Robot Manipulators: Modelling & Control
  • 1.40917Automatic Control Systems
  • 1.40920Wind Energy

Course codes shown are indicative. Please contact the School directly for official course codes and credit information.