Major overview
This course is one of 16 majors offered in the Bachelor of Science.
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’ll specialise in applied physics, astrophysics, materials science or mathematical physics (see course structure for details).
Advanced Science (Honours)
Physics is also available as an Advanced Science (Honours) major. The course focuses on project-based learning, leadership and entrepreneurship, and includes a research project in honours year (fourth year).
How to study this major
A major is a set of eight or more units you complete as part of a degree, including at least two in your final year. To study this major, you’ll need to apply for one of the degrees listed below.
Career outcomes
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
Professional accreditation and recognition
This course is accredited by the Australian Institute of Physics (AIP). Graduates are eligible for AIP professional membership.
Why study at Curtin?
Highly ranked global university
Curtin is ranked in the top 1% of universities in the world. (Academic Ranking of World Universities 2025).
Advanced science
This course offers an Advanced Science (Honours) option for high-achieving students.
Industry accredited
This course is accredited by the Australian Institute of Physics (AIP) and Curtin graduates are eligible for AIP professional membership.
Major structure
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.
Detailed course structure and unit information
For detailed information and course structure, visit our Handbook.
How to apply
This major is part of a degree. To apply, choose the degree you want to study and review its entry requirements. Then, prepare any required documents and submit your application before the deadline for your chosen intake.
After you receive and accept your offer, you can enrol in this specialisation either at the start of your degree or later in your studies, depending on your course structure.
Choose your degree
To study this major, you'll need to apply one of the degrees listed below.Explore more
Find more resources to help you take the next step in your Curtin journey.