Bachelor of Science (Physics major)
Overview
The Bachelor of Science – Physics major is offered from the Pietermaritzburg and Westville campuses. The Physics major develops graduates with a rigorous grounding in fundamental and applied physical principles, advanced problem-solving skills, and the ability to analyse complex systems across scales from the quantum to the cosmic. Graduates are equipped to apply physics creatively and ethically to address scientific, technological, and societal challenges, preparing them for leadership in research, industry, and further study.
SAQA
NQF LEVEL
DURATION
CAO CODE
KN-P-BG4
KN-W-BG4
CLOSING DATE
30 September
DISCIPLINE
Entry Requirements
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) – Degree (Pass).
- APS score of no fewer than 28 points.
- Mathematics at Level 4 and Physical Science, Life Science or Agricultural Science at Level 4.
Modules
The curriculum for the Physics major comprises modules with a total credit point value of 384 as approved by the Senate.
Semester 1
- Introduction to Calculus – MATH130 (16 Credits)
- Mechanics, Optics and Thermal Physics – PHYS110 (16 Credits)
64 credits may be chosen from second major or recommended electives given below:
- Introduction to Statistics – STAT130 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
Semester 2
- Calculus and Linear Algebra – MATH140 (16 Credits)
- Electromagnetism, Waves and Modern Physics – PHYS120 (16 Credits)
64 credits may be chosen from second major or recommended electives given below:
- Statistical Methods – STAT140 (16 Credits)
- Foundations of Computer Science – COMP107 (16 Credits)
- Development and Applications Fundamentals – ISTN103 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits.
Semester 1
- Advanced Calculus and Linear Algebra – MATH212 (16 Credits)
- Mechanics & Modern Physics – PHYS211 (16 Credits)
No fewer than 32 credits must be chosen from level 2 modules from either the second major, recommended electives given below.
- Discrete Mathematics with Applications – MATH236 (16 Credits)
- Mechanics – MATH235 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
Semester 2
- Further Calculus and Introductory Analysis – MATH251 (16 Credits)
- Electromagnetism, Waves & Vibrations – PHYS212 (16 Credits)
No fewer than 32 credits must be chosen from level 2 modules from either the second major, recommended electives given below.
- Introduction to Numerical Mathematics – MATH243 (16 Credits)
- Mathematical Modelling – MATH246 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits.
Semester 1
Pietermaritzburg Campus
- Classical Mechanics and Quantum Physics – PHYS361 (16 Credits)
- Electromagnetic Theory and Classical Optics – PHYS365 (16 Credits)
32 Level 3 credits chosen from the second major (32 Credits)
Westville Campus
- Quantum Physics – PHYS313 (16 Credits)
- Electrodynamics – PHYS363 (16 Credits)
32 Level 3 credits chosen from the second major (32 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
Semester 2
Pietermaritzburg Campus
- Statistical Physics and Atomic Spectroscopy – PHYS367 (16 Credits)
- Condensed Matter and Sub- atomic Physics – PHYS368 (16 Credits)
- 32 Level 3 credits chosen from the second major (32 Credits)
Westville Campus
- Statistical Physics – PHYS314 (16 Credits)
- Condensed Matter Physics and Nuclear and Particle Physics – PHYS315 (16 Credits)
32 Level 3 credits chosen from the second major (32 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
Apply today and take the next step toward your future.