BSc in Physics

The physics program at Grenfell Campus will satisfy your curiosity about how the universe works. This four-year bachelor of science program explores everything from the smallest nucleus to the farthest galaxies. Students learn the fundamentals giving them a strong foundation to build on. You can choose your direction of study by selecting courses in subatomic and particle physics, astronomy and cosmology.

Why study physics at Grenfell?

People who study physics want to learn how the universe works. Their curiosity takes them from the realm of the very tiny - the structure of an atom's nucleus - to the very big - the structure of the universe - and everywhere in between! You can learn about astrophysics and cosmology through one of Atlantic Canada’s largest astronomical telescopes right here at the Grenfell Campus Observatory. Or you can explore the fundamentals of electricity and magnetism, quantum mechanics, geophysics, and particle physics. You can shape your program so you concentrate on what most intrigues you. Your physics degree can be completed in four years.

Example courses include:

• Modern Physics
• The Solar System
• Electromagnetic theory
• Thermodynamics
• Computational mechanics
• Elementary particles and fields
• Galaxies and cosmology
• Quantum mechanics
• Observational astrophysics

You’ll get the rare opportunity to conduct research in our state-of-the-art facilities. You’ll realize the learning potential of our telescope and observatory dome. Inside the observatory’s six-metre dome, the precision-made reflecting telescope has almost 10,000 times the light-gathering ability of the human eye. The faint light from distant objects such as galaxies can be collected, then focused through an eyepiece for your direct viewing or analysis. The telescope is used primarily for research and as a teaching resource.

Additional research opportunities await you in our new Senior Physics lab when you become a third-or fourth-year student studying such topics as electricity, magnetism, and modern physics. Faculty are engaged in top-line research and partner with facilities around the world.

It's affordable

You'll enjoy the lowest tuition rate in English-speaking Canada. The provincial government gives high priority to education, providing extensive funding to Memorial University. This commitment allows us to provide an affordable yet high-quality post-secondary education.

It's personal

Here, you’ll have accessible professors who care about your progress. You will have the advantage of small class sizes even in your first-year courses. Our low student-instructor ratio ensures that your learning will be personal and relevant. Our physics classes are small and there are lots of opportunities to engage one on one with your professors and lab instructors. With just 1,300 students on campus, you’ll make real connections with classmates, faculty and staff and become an important part of the Grenfell community.

Information for first-year students

As a Grenfell student, you can participate in the National Student Exchange (N.S.E.) Program, where you pay Grenfell tuition rates while studying in another N.S.E. member university in Canada or the United States.

Admission

You must meet the general admission requirements for Memorial University and declare physics as your major to be admitted to the program.

Career opportunities

Graduates of the physics program have a high employment rate and there are a number of different career opportunities, including:

• Research and development
• Teaching
• Laser and optics
• Space science
• Nuclear science
• Science journalism