Physics

Overview

Overview

From the kinetic energy of a speeding car to nuclear fusion energy, from nearby stars to distant galaxies, physicists examine matter and energy in all their forms.

In this course, you will study real-world problems through observation, measurement and theoretical analysis. You will learn the core concepts of physics and gain experience using complex technical equipment, such as those found at supercomputing facilities.

You can specialise in one of the following streams:

Applied Physics

You will study matter and energy in the Earth’s natural and managed environments: the atmosphere, oceans, rivers, land, soils and living organisms.

You will study topics including the development of energy-saving ‘green’ materials and the disposal of radioactive wastes. You will learn how to deploy instruments during field excursions, and undertake field and satellite data analysis.

You will have the opportunity to undertake applied acoustics with Curtin’s Centre for Marine Science and Technology, and applied underwater optics with Curtin’s Remote Sensing and Satellite Research Group.

Astrophysics

This stream is suitable if you are interested in radio astronomy. You’ll grapple with scientific questions ranging from the origins of the Universe to the nature of dark matter.

Curtin’s involvement in the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research and the Square Kilometre Array means you will have the chance to analyse data from cutting-edge radio telescopes.

Materials Science

This stream looks for connections between the underlying structure of a material, its properties and applications, and how processing changes it.

You will study materials including metals, semiconductors, glasses, ceramics and polymers. You will also learn about analytical instruments and radiation that materials scientists use to investigate the microstructure of samples.

Mathematical Physics

Mathematical physics is the study of nature. Through mathematical models, we can predict the progress of climatic changes, the flow of oil reservoirs, and development of new materials.

This stream prepares you to work as a physicist or mathematician.

What you'll learn

• apply physics, mathematics, and computing knowledge, principles and concepts
• apply critical, creative and reflective thinking to physics problems
• access, evaluate and synthesise information relating to physics
• effectively communicate physics ideas and concepts
• use a range of technologies to collect and analyse data with appropriate regard to uncertainties
• work as responsible, self-directed and motivated learners
• apply internationally-accepted scientific conventions, standards and protocols
• demonstrate respect for cultural diversity in professional life
• work safely, effectively and ethically in a multifaceted scientific environment