Physics is the study of motion, energy and matter.  Based on experimental facts, physics includes fundamental theories such as those of Newtonian mechanics, relativity, electricity, magnetism, thermodynamics, nuclear and elementary particles, and quantum mechanics.  Responsible for technological breakthroughs such as electric power, radio, transistors, solar cells, MRI scanners, nuclear energy, microwave ovens, sonar, and space telescopes, the approach of physics is to understand the most basic principles governing a system.  Through experiments, field work, theory and computer simulations, physicists at Memorial University study a wide range of topics, including how proteins shape cell membranes, black holes, fibre-optic devices, glaciation, superconductivity and physical oceanography.

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• Admission requirements - entry to the university
• Your first year
• Admission requirements - admission to the major
• Sample courses
• Career opportunities

Physics at Memorial

Many of our undergraduates are actively involved in physics research programs. This experience provides both summer employment and an excellent preparation for a career in industrial or university research.

In addition to the major, minor and honours options in physics, joint programs are offered in:

• applied mathematics/physics (B.Sc. major and honours)
• chemistry/physics (B.Sc. honours)
• computer science/physics (B.Sc. major and honours)
• Earth sciences/physics (B.Sc. major and honours)
• geophysics/physical oceanography (B.Sc. honours)
• human biosciences/physics (B.Sc. honours)

Physics majors and honours students have the option to complete a minor in applied science (process engineering) through the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science.

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Admission requirements - entry to the university

Applications are considered on a rolling basis. You are encouraged to apply by:

You may apply for admission into the Faculty of Science by indicating bachelor of science as your program choice on the undergraduate application for admission.

Direct entry into the Faculty of Science from high school is subject to meeting the general admission requirements for Memorial University, including appropriate courses in mathematics and a laboratory science.

Important to know: You cannot choose physics as your major at the time of application. Admission into the major requires the completion of university level courses. Follow the information listed below under your first year and admission to the major for further details.

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Your first year

Have a look at a sample schedule of 10 courses you may need to take before declaring a physics major, including environmental physics and ocean physics.

This is a sample only. Meet with an academic advisor to create a plan that aligns with your specific needs and goals.

1. If you are completing Mathematics 1090/1000, you will be required to complete Mathematics 1001 as well.
   
   
2. If you are registered in Physics 1050, you must also be registered in (or have credit for) Mathematics 1000 (not 1090). If you are registered in Physics 1051, you must also be registered in (or have credit for) Mathematics 1001. You will be required to complete Physics 1051. You are eligible to take Physics 1051 if you complete Physics 1050 with at least 50%, Physics 1020 with at least 70%, or Physics 1021 with at least 50%.  Physics 1051 is also offered in the spring semester.
   
   
3. If you are not able to register for Chemistry 1050 in the fall semester, you can take Chemistry 1010 in the fall, Chemistry 1050 in the winter semester, and Chemistry 1051 in the spring Semester. Students attending Grenfell Campus will normally complete Chemistry 1200/1001 in their first year.
   
   
4. You are required to complete six credit hours in CRW courses, including at least three credit hours in English. Students attending Grenfell Campus will normally complete English 1000/1001 in their first year.

Further assistance

For assistance with course selection, contact the Academic Advising Centre.

For additional program information, visit the Department of Physics and Physical Oceanography or contact the Academic Program Officer.

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Admission requirements - admission to the major

Current Memorial students

In order to declare the physics major, students must complete 30 credit hours (10 courses) which must include:

• six credit hours in critical reading and writing (CRW) courses, including at least three credit hours in English
• six credit hours in mathematics
• six credit hours in physics
• six credit hours in a second science subject, other than mathematics and physics

Declare your major

Upon completion of these courses, students should contact the Department of Physics and Physical Oceanography to declare their major.

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Sample courses

PHYS 2151 - Stellar Astronomy and Astrophysics
PHYS 2300 - Introduction to Physical Oceanography
PHYS 3000 - Physics of Device Materials
PHYS 4852 - Quantum Information and Computing

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Career opportunities

A bachelor of science degree, with a major in physics, prepares students for a variety of careers including:

• medical imaging technician
• meteorologist
• teacher
• technical consulting
• financial analyst
• radiology and radiation safety

Note: some of these careers may call for supplementary education or preparation in the form of graduate studies, experiential learning or professional courses and exams.

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