BSc Major in Physics

The BSc Major in Physics degree aims to provide students with the opportunity to study physics as part of a general education or to combine physics with other disciplines for careers in areas such as science journalism or technology transfer to medicine and industry. Students can choose to take this degree with an optional Co-operative Education component. For more information, they should contact the Physics Co-op Coordinator.

A B.Sc. Major in Physics, combined with the right electives, prepares students for programs in Law, Medicine, or Business Administration (Master’s). It also offers excellent preparation for a Master in Engineering. The wide range of electives enables students to gain a strong background in another science discipline, such as a Minor in Computer Science, Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, or Physical Geography. Of these, Mathematics is the most accessible choice due to the substantial overlap in the programs. Students can also pursue a combination degree, such as a Major in Physics with a Minor in Biology, which serves as strong preparation for a graduate program in Biophysics. Lastly, students can combine a Major in Physics with an Arts discipline, such as Philosophy or Economics.

The following table indicates the specific courses and recommended schedule for the BSc Major in Physics degree:

PHYS-C is any 3 classes from the following list: PHYS 3xx, 401, 421, 432.
SFA-ELCT is any Science, Arts or Fine Arts elective. This is typically how a Minor in another Science discipline can be obtained.
F/A-ELCT is any Arts or Fine Arts elective.
Open-ELCT is any elective from any Faculty (no restriction).

Note: PHYS109 and 119 may be substituted for PHYS 111 and 112 to enter second year, however, PHYS 112 must be taken in any case before PHYS 342.