Physics (BSc)
Physics is the study of the fundamental properties of energy and matter, and their application to real-world problems. Study physics and you’ll gain insight into our complex and ever-changing world. Discover phenomena you can use to develop the technologies and tools of tomorrow.
Why choose this program?
Our Department of Physics and Atmospheric Science is one of the best university-based research centres in Canada. If you are interested in a particular specialty, we have suggested course sets in astrophysics, computational physics, biophysics, environmental physics, materials physics, applied materials, theoretical physics, leadership in physics, and medical physics.
Whether you are fascinated by our universe, sustainable energy, or the complexities of global climate systems, our diverse program provides a rigorous foundation across physics and atmospheric science. You will learn directly from world-class faculty who are pushing the boundaries of discovery and are committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists. This program offers rare, hands-on opportunities for undergraduate students to step out of the classroom and into research positions early in your degree.
Careers
As a graduate of the Physics program, you’ll be highly sought by employers needing an intelligent workforce able to adapt to our rapidly changing world. Graduates are active in leading high-tech industries, high-profile government research institutions, hospitals, and universities.
What you will learn
Physics and Atmospheric Science courses will inform and challenge you. In lectures, you’ll be introduced to key topics, while labs provide you with opportunities to ask questions and explore related subjects. During your first two years, you’ll take general physics, programming, and foundation-building science courses. In the third and fourth year, you’ll explore certain physics sub-disciplines more closely.Ìý
Sample courses
- Introduction to Physics
- Physics in and Around You IÌý
- Differential & Integral Calculus
- Concepts in ChemistryÌý
- Computer Simulation in Science
- Oscillations and Waves
- Electricity and Magnetism
- Modern Physics
- Experimental PhysicsÌý
- Statistical MechanicsÌý
- Quantum Physics
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- Stellar Structure and Evolution
- Solid State Physics
- Intro to Atmospheric Science/Atmospheric Physics
- Advanced Classical MechanicsÌý
In your first year of study, you'll take foundation-building science courses in physics, math and chemistry. In upper years, you’ll take more specialized courses in topics such as modern physics, electricity and magnetism, energy and the environment and more. You’ll also be encouraged to think analytically and use your imagination, while also learning the skills you need to solve real-world problems.
Gain experience outside of the classroom
Enroll in a (FIGs) like Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Science
Be mentored by an upper-year student
Enroll in co-op
Apply for one of 70+ Faculty-coordinated summer research awards available each year
Gain teaching and communication skills through science outreach, education, and community engagement
Attend career prep workshops
Leadership opportunities through the (¶Ù±«±Ê³§)Ìý
Other opportunities include science communication internships, and student society leadership rolesÌý
: AV¾ãÀÖ²¿â€™s Science Innovation Sandbox. Students tackle real-world challenges through hands-on experimentation and innovative scientific thinking
Customize your degree
The following Physics and Atmospheric Science program options are offered by AV¾ãÀÖ²¿â€™s Faculty of Science. Connect with an academic advisor after you start your studies to explore options such as:  Ìý
Concentrated Honours Bachelor of Science in PhysicsÌý
Combined Honours Bachelor of Science in Physics and another subjectÌý
Bachelor of Science with Major in PhysicsÌýÌýÌý
Bachelor of Science with Major in Physics and Diploma in Meteorology (DMET)Ìý
Bachelor of Science with Double Major in Physics and another subjectÌý
Minor in Physics and Atmospheric Science
Add a minor to your BSc in Physics and Atmospheric Science to expand your skill set and perspective with a second discipline, allowing you to study everything you’re passionate about at Dal.
Visit the to browse the minors you can take with this degree.
Complete a certificate alongside your regular degree requirements and graduate with additional skills in specialized areas. Options include:
- Materials Science Ìý
- Information Technology Ìý
- Science Communication and Leadership
As a Science Co-op student, you’ll undertake three work terms interspersed with your academic study terms. Science Co-op degree programs allow you to apply your growing knowledge directly while providing paid career-related experience helping to offset academic costs while arming you with the information you need to make educated career choices.
An undergraduate degree from AV¾ãÀÖ²¿ in Physics will have you understanding the fundamental elements of the universe, energy, and matter and their properties, structures, movements, and behavior in time and space.
Admission requirements
Minimum admission requirements
To be considered for admission to this program, you must meet minimum academic criteria:
- Completion of secondary school (Grade 12)
- Achievement of the minimum average for your program of choice.
- Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent course).
Admission to many AV¾ãÀÖ²¿ programs is competitive. This means that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Program-specific admission requirements
To enter the Bachelor of Science program in your first year, you must meet the following high school course requirements:Ìý
Minimum overall average: 75% Ìý
Academic English 12 Ìý
Pre-calculus Math 12 Ìý
Three additional academic subjects  Ìý
Note: All Bachelor of Science students enter the Faculty of Science as undeclared majors. This gives you the freedom to explore your scientific interests during your first year. Ìý
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You will officially declare your physics major, minor, or specialized options at the end of your first year using your first-year science and math prerequisites.
Need Pre-Calculus, Chemistry, Physics, or another admission requirement? Our online, self-paced UPrep courses can help you earn the prerequisite you need, upgrade your marks, and build confidence before starting your degree at Dal. Explore UPrep courses.
