Bachelor of Science Honours – Physics
Overview
The Bachelor of Sciences Honours – Physics specialisation is offered on the Pietermaritzburg and Westville campuses. The Physics Honours programme extends the undergraduate major through advanced coursework, specialised experimental and computational training, and an extensive research project. It prepares graduates with the ability to apply physics at the frontiers of knowledge, including quantum technology and space science, amongst others. The programme equips graduates for postgraduate study and careers in research, industry and academia, where creativity, analytical depth and innovation are essential.
Entry Requirements
- Applicants are eligible to apply to register for the Physics specialisation in the BSc (Hons) programme if they have previously been awarded a Bachelor’s degree with a major in Physics.
Modules
The curriculum for the Physics (Hons) specialisation comprises modules with a total credit point value of 128 credit points as approved by the Senate. The Module PHYS735 may not be repeated.
Semester 1
Pietermaritzburg Campus
- Statistical Physics – PHYS741 (16 Credits)
- Quantum Mechanics – PHYS791 (16 Credits)
48 credits may be selected from the modules listed below OR from modules within the school or from another school (but no more than 32 credits) as approved by the school.:
- Special Topics in Physics I – PHYS721 (16 Credits)
YEAR MODULE
- Physics Project – PHYS735 (32 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
Westville Campus
- Classical Field Theory – PHYS701 (16 Credits)
- Quantum Mechanics – PHYS702 (16 Credits)
- Statistical Physics & Classical Mechanics – PHYS703 (16 Credits)
- Methods of Mathematical and Computational Physics – PHYS736 (16 Credits)
Up to 32 credits of the above electives may be replaced by modules from another school, subject to the approval by both Schools.
YEAR MODULE
- Physics Project – PHYS735 (32 Credits)
Westville Campus (NASSP specialisation)
- Classical Field Theory – PHYS701 (16 Credits)
- Techniques in Astrophysics and Space Science – PHYS724 (16 Credits)
- Methods of Mathematical and Computational Physics – PHYS736 (16 Credits)
- Fluid Dynamics – MATH732 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
Semester 2
Pietermaritzburg Campus
- Electrodynamics – PHYS792 (16 Credits)
48 credits may be selected from the modules listed below OR from modules within the school or from another school (but no more than 32 credits) as approved by the school.
- Special Topics in Physics II – PHYS752 (32 Credits)
YEARLY MODULE
- Physics Project – PHYS735 (32 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
Westville Campus
32 credits chosen from:
- Advanced Topics in Quantum Physics – PHYS737 (16 Credits)
- Advanced Topics in Condensed Matter Physics – PHYS738 (16 Credits)
- Advanced Topics in Applied Physics – PHYS739 (16 Credits)
Up to 32 credits of the above electives may be replaced by modules from another school, subject to the approval by both Schools.
YEAR MODULE
- Physics Project – PHYS735 (32 Credits)
Westville Campus (NASSP specialisation)
32 credits chosen from:
- Advanced Topics in Space Science – PHYS722 (16 Credits)
- Advanced Topics in Plasma Physics – PHYS723 (16 Credits)
- Advanced Topics in Astronomy and Astrophysics – PHYS725 (16 Credits)
- Cosmology – MATH703 (16 Credits)
No more than 32 credits of the above Electives may be replaced by modules from another programme within the school or another school, subject to the approval by both Schools.
- Physics Project – PHYS735 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
- Total Credits for Qualification: 128
What do they actually do?
Astronomers apply the principles of Physics and Mathematics to better understand the universe. They collect data on the characteristics of planets, moons, stars, and other celestial objects using telescopes and computer programs. Many astronomers specialise in specific types of celestial bodies or phenomena, such as black holes. Their typical responsibilities include developing and testing scientific theories, analysing data, and writing research proposals. They also produce scientific papers and present their findings to others in the field.
Areas of Employment
• HartRAO
• SAAO,
• SA SKA
• MeerKAT
• Universities or Colleges
• Planetarium
Apply today and take the next step toward your future.