Course details

Summary

With so many options to choose from, the Bachelor of Science degree (BSc) is your opportunity to create a good foundation for your study in the Earth, Chemical, Computational, Human, Life, Mathematical and Physical Sciences.

Programme overview

If you have a mind for science and you’re keen to keep your options open, then the BSc is the degree for you. With many undergraduate majors in a wide range of subject areas, the BSc will allow you to incorporate different areas of interest and expertise. As well as strongly emphasizing transferable skills to improve your employment opportunities, this programme will expose you to cutting-edge technologies and provide a gateway to independent research. Throughout your undergraduate degree you’ll be taught by knowledgeable scientists, many of whom are major contributors in their field.

Physics Major

Physics is perhaps the most fundamental of all sciences. Understanding the principles of physics and the laws of nature gives you an enhanced 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 combined with training in experimental methods and the mathematical analysis of physical processes.

This is a wealth of major, subjects and specialization on offer within the Bachelor of Science (BSc). The main areas include biological sciences, human and earth sciences, computational sciences, physical sciences and health-orientated sciences. As well as skills that are part of your academic learning in your chosen major, you’ll be exposed to new technologies including IT. This is the degree for you if you’re science-minded and want to keep your options open.

Career opportunities

Fundamental physics is a strong underpinning for careers in many branches of the physical sciences. Recent graduates are finding work in research-based jobs, and teaching, marketing, medical physics and computing. Mineral exploration physics and astrophysics are open to physics graduates.

Many aspects of computing and telecommunications require physics and a degree in physics would open up avenues in scientific instrument manufacture, electronics and development of computer systems.

Industrial applications of physics including noise control, industrial process monitoring and control, radiation monitoring, vibration analysis and water resource management.

Meteorology and oceanography are also interesting fields available to physicists.

Further study options

• Bachelor of Science (Honours)
• Graduate Diploma in Science (GradDipSci)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Science (PGDipSci)
• Master of Science (MSc)
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Structure

Single or first major must include:

At least 45 points from Physics 315-371, GEOPHYS 330-361

At least 15 points from PHYSICS 390-391

Second major must include:

At least 30 points from Physics 315-371, GEOPHYS 330-361

At least 15 points from PHYSICS 390-391

Entry criteria

Secondary school qualifications

You need to have one of the following: International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum total score of 24. General Certificate of Education (GCE) Advanced Level. You must have completed a minimum of three A-Level subjects with at least a 'C' grade or higher. General Studies or similar general papers cannot be included.

GCE ‘A’ Level requirements apply to ‘A’ Level qualifications examined by bodies such as AQA, OCR, Edexcel, WJEC, CCEA, Pearson Education Limited and CIE taken outside of New Zealand.

English language requirements:

IELTS 6.0; TOEFL (iBT) 80; TOEFL (paper-based) 550; CAE or CPE 169; PTE 50; MELAB 80.