Outline
Outline
From the kinetic energy of a speeding car to nuclear fusion energy, from nearby stars to distant galaxies, physicists examine matter and energy in all their forms.
In this course you will study real-world problems through observation, measurement and theoretical analysis. You’ll learn the core concepts of physics and gain experience using complex technical equipment, such as those found at supercomputing facilities.
You can specialise in one of the following streams:
Applied Physics
In this stream 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. You’ll also learn how to deploy instruments during field excursions, and undertake field and satellite data analysis.
You’ll have the opportunity to 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 stream is suitable if you are interested in radio astronomy. You’ll grapple with 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 you will have the chance to analyse data from cutting-edge radio telescopes.
Materials Science
This stream looks for connections between the underlying structure of a material, its properties and applications, and how processing changes the material.
You will study materials including metals, semiconductors, glasses, ceramics and polymers. You’ll also learn about analytical instruments and radiation that materials scientists use to investigate the microstructure of samples.
Mathematical Physics
Mathematical physics is the study of nature. Through mathematical models, we can predict the progress of climatic changes, the flow of oil reservoirs and development of new materials.
This stream will prepare you to work as a physicist or mathematician.
This major sits within the Bachelor of Science (Science) degree. It can also be studied as part of the Bachelor of Advanced Science course.
See our handbook for more course information.
How this course will make you industry ready
You will study real-world problems through observation, measurement and theoretical analysis.
What jobs can the Physics lead to?
Careers
- Astrophysicist
- Computational physicist
- Environmental physicist
- Materials analyst
- Meteorologist
- Satellite remote-sensing scientist
- Financial analysts
- Medical physicists
Industries
- Astronomy
- Defence
- Environmental consultation
- Manufacturing
Further study
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