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 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​

View a complete list of physics courses here.

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.

Learn more about our physics program faculty and staff here.

 

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
• Learn more about careers in physics here.
• Click here for Physics resources.