Physics

"Physics, as a fundamental science, underpins all areas of scientific research. An understanding of the physical principles of a system is the key to the advancement of knowledge. A major in physics can lead directly into participation in research at the forefront of fields as diverse as Astronomy and Astrophysics, Quantum Science, Condensed Matter Physics or Biophysics” - Dr Tim McIntyre, Major Convenor.

PHYSICS

Physics is one of the fundamental sciences and involves solving the some of the biggest questions that have always intrigued humankind, such as “where did we come from?" and "where are we headed?”

Physics embraces the study of the most basic natural laws and is about explaining how and why things work on scales ranging from the sub-nuclear, through the everyday, and on to the entire cosmos. Physicists explore and identify basic principles governing the structure and behaviour of matter, the generation and transfer of energy, and the interaction of matter and energy. Some physicists use these principles in theoretical or experimental studies on topics such as the nature of time and the origin of the Universe; others apply their physics knowledge to practical areas, developing advanced materials, electronic and optical devices, and equipment for a wide range of fields such as medicine, mining, astronomy and geophysics. 

Physics is also at the heart of new interdisciplinary areas such as information technology, nanotechnology, quantum technology, and biophotonics. In newly developing areas in the biosciences, an understanding of basic physical principles is one of the keys to advancing knowledge.

Physics at UQ has recognised research strengths in a range of areas. As part of the Physics Major you can expect to take part in research-based theory and/or experimental projects using state-of-the-art equipment. Students progressing to honours in physics complete original research projects, often leading to publications in international peer-reviewed journals.

This major is administered by the School of Mathematics and Physics.

What will I study?

In this major, you will develop a broad knowledge of classical and modern physics. Courses in physics include: astronomy, biophysics, electromagnetism, laser physics, mathematical physics, mechanics, optics, quantum physics, and thermodynamics.

In later years you can specialise in your particular area of interest. Electives under the general stream will prepare you for most areas of physics including quantum information and quantum optics, condensed matter physics, biophotonics and laser science. More specialist plans exist for studying astronomy and astrophysics and mathematical physics.

Assessment tasks vary across different courses but include poster presentations, assignments, laboratory reports and exams.

As well as content knowledge in this area you will be given the opportunity to develop a range of other skills such as problem-solving capabilities, laboratory skills and computing abilities that will equip you to pursue a career in this area.

You can also include physics as part of your dual major in Computational Science or Biophysics.

Study Plans

How do I use the Study Plans?

1. Choose a study plan.
2. Take all Compulsory Courses in each semester.
3. Select required number of units in Key Courses for each year level. 
4. Ensure you take at least #12 of level 3 (or 4) courses from the BSc list.
5. Fill any gaps in each semester with Keyor Recommended Courses or electives from BSc or other programs.
   (Standard full-time semester load #8.)
6. Ensure you meet the BSc requirements and rules.

What do the different columns mean?

• Compulsory courses – compulsory for the major.
• Key courses – electives from the major's course list.
• Recommended courses – complement the major. 

Choose a study plan

Physics (Single Major) - General Studies

You can find details about the first year of the program here.

 1. Students must choose at least #4 from PHYS3040, PHYS3051 and/or PHYS3020 to complete the requirements for the Physics major.

Physics (Single Major) - Astronomy / Astrophysics

You can find details about the first year of the program here.

   1. Students must choose at least #4 from PHYS3040, PHYS3051 and/or PHYS3020 to complete the requirements for the Physics major.

Physics (Single Major) - Mathematical Physics

You can find details about the first year of the program here.

   1. Students must choose at least #4 from PHYS3040, PHYS3051 and/or PHYS3020 to complete the requirements for the Physics major.

Physics (Extended Major) - General Studies

You can find details about the first year of the program here.

   1. Students must choose at least #4 from PHYS3040, PHYS3051 and/or PHYS3020 to complete the requirements for the Physics major.

Major Convenor

Dr Tim McIntyre 

Specific Research Area – Experimental Laser Science

What I do

I am an experimental physicist with interests in developing and applying laser-based imaging techniques. I am part of the Centre for Hypersonics, which has given me extensive experience in measurement techniques for high speed, high temperature gas flows. These include interferometric, spectroscopic and fluorescence approaches. I am also part of the Centre for Biophotonics and Laser Science with a developing interest in non-linear optical techniques for biological imaging.

What I teach

I lecture in physics, teaching classes such as optics and the first year course on the physical basis of biological systems. I co-ordinate a number of laboratory classes including second year optics and modern physics as well as a first year laboratory. I am interested in developing computer simulations for use in undergraduate teaching.

Careers

Physics graduates develop robust, high-level analytical and problem-solving skills that are widely applicable and highly valued by a diverse range of employers including those in education, finance, engineering, computing and management.

Physicists engage in a wide range of exciting and rewarding careers across many industries in both the public and private sectors. Many physicists are employed by governments in research and management positions; by universities in the areas of teaching, research and technical positions; as education and science communicators; in health and medical sectors; and in nuclear physics. Other physicists take a higher degree and work in research and development; undertaking fundamental research to increase scientific knowledge, or applied research to develop new devices, products or processes.