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Curtin University

  • 28% international / 72% domestic

Physics Major (BSc Science)

  • Non-Award

This course explores matter and energy in all forms, focusing on real-world problem-solving through observation, measurement, and theoretical analysis. Students can specialise in Applied Physics, Astrophysics, Materials Science, or Mathematical Physics.

Key details

Degree Type
Non-Award
Course Code
MJRU-PHYCS

About this course

Overview

From the kinetic energy of a car to nuclear fusion energy, from nearby stars to distant galaxies, physicists examine matter and energy in all their forms.

This course focuses on how to address real-world problems through observation, measurement and theoretical analysis. You'll learn the core concepts of physics and gain experience using complex technical equipment.

You can specialise in one of four areas:

  • Applied Physics: In this specialisation, you will study matter and energy in the Earth's natural and managed environments: the atmosphere, oceans, rivers, land, soils and living organisms. You'll study contemporary topics such as the development of energy-saving 'green' materials and the disposal of radioactive wastes. During field excursions, you'll learn how to deploy instruments and undertake field and satellite data analysis. In addition, you could undertake applied acoustics with Curtin's Centre for Marine Science and Technology and applied underwater optics with Curtin's Remote Sensing and Satellite Research Group.
  • Astrophysics: This specialisation is suitable for students who are interested in radio astronomy. You'll explore scientific questions ranging from the origins of the Universe to the nature of dark matter. Curtin's major involvement in the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research and the Square Kilometre Array means will give you the chance to analyse data from cutting-edge radio telescopes.
  • Materials Science: Materials science looks for connections between the underlying structure of a material, its properties and applications, and changes due to processing. In this specialisation you will study materials including metals, semiconductors, glasses, ceramics and polymers. You'll also learn about analytical instruments and radiation used to investigate the microstructure of samples.
  • Mathematical Physics: Mathematical physics is the study of nature through mathematical models and computation using the latest supercomputers. In this specialisation you will study physics from very small scales, using quantum mechanics, to the very big, utilising Einstein's theory of general relativity.

Physics is also offered as an Bachelor of Advanced Science course.

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

What you need in order to get into this course. There are different pathway options depending on your level of work and education experience.

ATAR pathway

  • Minimum ATAR: 70
  • Essential WACE subjects (prerequisites): Mathematics Methods ATAR and Physics ATAR
  • Desirable WACE subjects: Mathematics Specialist ATAR, Chemistry ATAR

StepUp Entry

StepUp grants additional ATAR points to help eligible students qualify for admission. Successful StepUp Entry and StepUp Equity Adjustment Admission Pathway (StepUp Bonus) applicants will be eligible to be considered for admission into this course.

Alternative pathways

  • UniReady: If you don't meet our minimum admission criteria, the UniReady Enabling Program can help you qualify for entry into a range of undergraduate courses.
  • Certificate IV + English Competency: The certificate IV is the minimum requirement for university entry. It qualifies you for entry to Curtin courses with a 70 ATAR. You must also meet English language proficiency and check that you meet any extra subject prerequisites (where applicable).
  • STAT entry: The Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) is a national test for those who don't meet university admission criteria. STAT can be used to meet entry criteria for some courses, or as a way to satisfy Curtin's English proficiency requirements. STAT is not accepted as an entry pathway, but may be used to demonstrate English language proficiency.

English requirements

Curtin requires all applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English. Specific English requirements for this course are outlined in the IELTS table below.

  • Writing: 6
  • Speaking: 6
  • Reading: 6
  • Listening: 6
  • Overall band score: 6

What you will learn

What you'll learn

  • have demonstrated knowledge and understanding in Physics that is typically at a level that, whilst supported by advanced textbooks, includes some aspects that will be informed by knowledge of the forefront of Physics, GC1
  • can apply their knowledge and understanding in a manner that indicates a professional approach to Phycis, and have competencies typically demonstrated through devising and sustaining arguments (to both specialist and non-specialist audiences) and solving problems within Physics, GC2
  • understand the constructs of the scientific method and apply these principles in Physics using digital technologies, GC3
  • can gather and interpret relevant data within Physics to inform judgements that include reflection on relevant social, scientific, or ethical issues, including being aware of the diversity of international perspectives associated with Physics, and how these impact upon the practice of Physics, GC4
  • understand and appreciate cultural diversity and how it impacts on the practice of Physics, GC5
  • display a high standard of professional behaviour, including effective time management, both independently and as a team member, GC6

Career pathways

What jobs can the Physics course lead to?

Careers

  • Physicist
  • Astrophysicist
  • Computational physicist
  • Environmental physicist
  • Materials analyst
  • Meteorologist
  • Satellite remote-sensing scientist
  • Financial analyst
  • Medical physicist

Industries

  • Astronomy
  • Defence
  • Software development
  • Environmental consultancy
  • Manufacturing

Course structure

You can study this course as part of the following degrees
  • Bachelor of Science (Science)
  • Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Innovation

Visit your preferred degree page for information on admission criteria, course fees and study locations.

Credit for prior study or work

Finish your course sooner with credit for your previous study or work experience.

How to apply

How to apply

Please review information on how to apply for the campus of your choice

Apply now

  • The offering information on this website applies only to future students. Current students should refer to faculty handbooks for current or past course information.

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