Overview

The department offers courses which can be taken at all levels for BSc, BSc(Hons), BTech, GradDipSci, PGDipSci, MSc and PhD qualifications and also for BA and BE and the new Master of Energy. The department also services the requirements of a wide variety of other disciplines (eg, engineering, computer science, architecture, medicine, surveying and pharmacy).

The interfaculty Bachelor of Technology in Optoelectronics degree provides a vocationally-oriented specialisation in this fast-developing area. The Bachelor of Technology in Medical Physics and Imaging Technology will prepare students for careers in medical imaging and its applications.

Find more information about the BTech in Optoelectronics

Find more information about the BTech in Medical Physics and Imaging Technology

Physics is a subject covering a wide range of interests. There are first-year courses for students from other faculties and for science students who want to understand some of the principles of physics.

Planets, stars and galaxies
The introductory astronomy course “Planets, Stars and Galaxies” gives students an overview of astronomy and may be taken as a general education course or as an introduction for those intending to advance in astronomy or astrophysics.

Science and technology of sustainable energy
The course ”Science and Technology of Sustainable Energy” is for both general education students and physics students. It gives a broad overview of the technological concepts and challenges behind the world moving away from petrochemical-based power generation.

Physics for the life sciences
The course ”Physics for the Life Sciences” is specifically designed to meet the needs of students majoring in the biological sciences other life sciences programmes (i.e. biomedical, sports sciences, etc.) and concentrates on subject areas of application to the life sciences.

Mathematics courses
Preparation to NCEA Level 3 in mathematics with calculus and physics is assumed for first-year advancing courses. Students with year 12 level preparation are advised to enrol first in PHYSICS 102, and if appropriate, MATHS 102 before attempting the standard advancing courses.

A good grounding in mathematics is essential for students wishing to major in physics. The courses MATHS 150 and MATHS 250 provide this grounding and are recommended preparation for most level 2 physics courses. However, students who have not achieved 18 credits in calculus at NCEA Level 3 including at least 6 credits at merit or excellence should initially enrol in MATHS 108.

Digital Fundamentals
In addition, the course ‘Digital Fundamentals’ is a good addition to a computer science or electronics degree since it introduces the basics of the electronics behind digital systems with a strong hands-on laboratory component. The undergraduate courses (PHYSICS 120, 130, 150) cover most of the basic aspects of physics, and provide for subsequent specialisation in any of the research areas of the department.