Physics
Physics aims to understand the entire physical world, from the sub-atomic to the cosmological.
Physics is the most fundamental science. It involves understanding the basic principles by which all things in the universe exist and operate. Therefore physics is the foundation of other scientific disciplines and the natural basis of all the technology disciplines such as electronics, engineering and computer science which were pioneered by physicists.
The most famous scientists, such as Einstein and Newton, were physicists. Physicists are versed in mathematics, computer programming, and the design of complex instruments. As such, they are among the most versatile scientists, able to easily cross boundaries into other disciplines such as chemistry, biology, medicine, earth and planetary sciences. For example, there are biophysicists, geophysicists, astrophysicists and neurophysicists.
Physics papers are organised into theoretical, experimental and electronics subject areas. Electronic engineering is the technology of most interest to our subject and includes the theory, design and construction of electronic devices, instruments and systems.
Career Opportunities
- Applications Engineer
- Avionics Engineer
- Electronics Engineer
- Medical Physicist
- Meteorologist
- Satellite Information Processor
RECOMMENDED BACKGROUND
School subjects required
Physics at NCEA Level 2 or 3. Some first year papers have specific prerequisites so check the paper list carefully.
PLANNING YOUR DEGREE
Year 1
100 Level – Papers are worth 15 points.
Prerequisites
» ENEL111 – Introduction to Electronics
» PHYS103 – Physics for Scientists and Engineers 1
» MATH101 – Introduction to Calculus
PHYS100 Exploring Physics is recommended for students lacking a strong secondary school background in physics.
Physics majors depend strongly on Mathematics. At 100 Level, you should plan to include the papers MATH101 Introduction to Calculus, and MATH102 Introduction to Algebra in your programme of study. If you lack the required NCEA pass in Mathematics to attempt these papers, you may be eligible to enrol in MATH168 Preparatory Mathematics, or MATH165 General Mathematics.
Year 2
200 Level – Papers are worth 20 points unless specified.
Students majoring in Physics need to complete at least 60 points at 200 Level Physics, as well as several 200 Level Mathematics papers.
Compulsory papers
» PHYS204 – Experimental Physics and Instrumentation
» PHYS205 – Relativity, Nuclear and Astrophysics (10 points)*
» PHYS206 – Statistical and Thermal Physics (10 points)*
» ENEL284 – Engineering Physics 1 (10 points)
» ENEL285 – Engineering Physics 2 (10 points)
Year 3
300 Level – Papers are worth 20 points unless specified.
Compulsory paper
» PHYS301 – Biophysics
*Choose 40 points from 300 Level Physics or Electronics (ENEL) papers. Recommended:
» PHYS302 – Quantum Physics
» PHYS315 – Computational Biophysics
» ENEL312 – Electromagnetic Waves
» ENEL317 – Microprocessor Applications and Control
» ENEL321 – Application Specific Integrated Circuits
» ENEL324 – Optoelectronics
» ENEL382 – High Speed Communications*
» ENEL385 – Power Electronics
*Please note that these papers have corequisites that should normally be taken at the same time.
Other papers needed to complete the degree requirements of the BSc and BSc(Tech) may come from Physics, other science subjects or papers from other Faculties/Schools of Studies.
