Physics is the fundamental science, which forms the foundation of engineering and technology, and provides a basis for an understanding of biology, chemistry, geology and other sciences. Physicists seek to find the basic laws which govern the universe from the workings of sub-atomic particles to clusters of galaxies. Physics generates fundamental knowledge needed for the future technological advances that will continue to drive the economic engines of the world.
Physics contributes to the technological infrastructure and provides trained personnel needed to take advantage of scientific advances and discoveries. Physics is an important element in the education of chemists, engineers, geologists and computer scientists, as well as practitioners of the other physical and biomedical sciences. Physics extends and enhances our understanding of the other disciplines, such as the earth, agriculture, chemical, biological and environmental sciences
Concepts from physics underpin most of the physical sciences and engineering, and are growing in importance in the biological and health sciences. Second and third year physics units provide essential background for the physical science aspects of atmospheric and oceanic modelling work undertaken in the theme area of Antarctic and Southern Ocean Studies and the astrophysics undertaken in the Frontier Technologies theme area. A more detailed study of fluid mechanics is given in the unit KYA315 Fluid Mechanics, and this material underpins the study of meteorology and oceanography.
The main areas of specialisation within Physics are:
With a major in physics, employment possibilities are present in: Antarctic Science, Astronomy and Space science, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Education and Teaching, Electronics and Computing, Environment, Forensic Science, Geophysics , Industrial Research, Journalism , Management, Materials Science, Medical and Hospital Physics, Meteorology, Nuclear Physics, Oceanography, Patents
The Australian Institute of Physics
This 3-year (minimum) full-time or part-time course is offered by the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology and is available at Hobart and Launceston, however Physics is only available in Hobart. The main intake to the Bachelor of Science is February, however a mid-year intake in July is also available. Students interested in Physics may like to consider studying a major or minor in Physics within the Bachelor of Science. Please note preteriary requirements of Maths and Physics apply in order to study University level Physics. Students without these prerequistes would need to complete our foundation units.
This 1 year full-time, 2 year part-time (maximum) course is available at Hobart and, subject to available supervision, at Launceston. It aims to provide advanced training in the major area of the student's pass degree, opportunity for training in research, to prepare candidates for further research study (eg MSc and PhD) and employment in research organisations, and an in-depth knowledge in a single area of science, such as Physics.
The Graduate Diploma in Science allows students to obtain a science major in an area outside their specialisation, such as Plant Science. Applications are open to graduates from all disciplines provided that the prerequisites for the field of specialisation are met, or other evidence of fitness to undertake the work is provided.
The Graduate Diploma of Science with Honours allows graduates to obtain the necessary science major to pursue higher degrees in Science. It offers advances training in the area chosen with a research Honours year, such as Physics.
The Master of Applied Science is a four semester full-time or eight semester part-time course offered on the Hobart and Launceston campuses by most Schools within the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology.