Bachelor of Science - Physics major

Bachelor of Science - Physics major

Your guide to majoring in Physics with the Bachelor of Science at RMIT. 

Student type:
Learning mode:
On campus
Duration:
Full-time 3 years
Part-time 6 years
Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

See admissions

Duration:
Full-time 3 years
Fees:

AU$38,400 (2024 annual)

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City

Introduction to the major

When you choose a Physics major in RMIT’s Bachelor of Science you enjoy flexibility with a degree that allows you to pursue a specialisation in physics while gaining practical real-world experience.

RMIT’s Bachelor of Science allows you to major in Physics with a minor in Mathematics and then extend your studies by completing a second minor. Alternatively, you can undertake a double major in physics and mathematics.

Your degree commences with an integrated suite of four core subjects, introducing you to key concepts and skills from across the physical sciences (physics, chemistry and geospatial), life sciences (biological, environmental and food), data science and mathematics. 

After your first semester, you will follow your chosen specialisation in physics. If you decide to major in physics with a minor in mathematics, you will then choose a second minor, in one of the three following areas: 

  • Advanced physics
  • Nanotechnology
  • Space science

During your studies, you will also take subjects from the Future Technology Skills suite, enabling you to explore important interdisciplinary fields in STEM disciplines.

You will spend time in a research group during your final year of study, with the opportunity to work in laboratories that are state of the art. You will gain experience with tools and techniques at the cutting edge of science, including advanced mathematical methods and instrumentation.

You will be mentored by researchers from academia and/or industry. We have strong links to science in the workplace. Our academics work with government organisations and hospitals as well as companies nationally and internationally in the areas of quantum technology, photonics, advanced materials, biophysics and medical physics.

 

 

Lilian Wade, Bachelor of Science (Physics) BP350
The stand-out feature I have experienced of RMIT so far has definitely been the professors and their dedication to the students. The physics major at RMIT has been excellent – the new course design has allowed us to cover a multitude of physics and mathematical topics, while keeping them all interconnected and easy to follow.

- Lilian Wade, Bachelor of Science (Physics)

About the Bachelor of Science

With the Bachelor of Science at RMIT you will enjoy a cross-disciplinary, flexible and personalised degree that allows you to pursue a range of diverse interest areas across business. You will gain practical real-world experience throughout your degree.

Why choose to major in Physics with the Bachelor of Science?

Major or double major?

Major in Physics with a minor in Mathematics or double major in Physics and Mathematics.

Small class sizes

The size of our classes gives you more of each lecturer’s time, allowing them to better support your learning.

Get research experience

In your final year of study you’ll have the opportunity to work directly with our researchers.

RMIT’s Bachelor of Science gives students the option to extend their study of physics beyond a major by completing a minor that covers advanced topics in physics.

- Dr Jackson Smith (Lecturer, Physics) 

Career outcomes

RMIT’s Bachelor of Science will equip you with the expertise, experience and professional skills to have a successful career as a scientist.

With the practical, research and soft skills developed and gained through your study in this degree, you can go on to work or undertake further study in a range of areas.

Our graduates have worked for universities, technology companies, hospitals, and government organisations.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science who choose to major in Physics may continue their training to work in roles that include:

  • research scientist
  • laboratory technician
  • technical officer
  • medical physicist
  • scientific officer
  • geophysicist
  • university lecturer
  • high school teacher
  • science commentator.
Addis Phan, Bachelor of Science (Physics) BP350
If you are passionate about science, go for it as once you finish it, there are many careers pathways that you can go into. I had a hard time picking between chemistry or physics as majors – I enjoy both of these areas and hope to teach them one day after becoming a teacher.

- Addis Phan, Bachelor of Science (Physics)

Subject selection guide

The following guide will help you understand what your subject plan will look like if you decide to major in Physics with the Bachelor of Science:

Physics major

You will undertake eight courses focusing on:

  • Mechanics and Thermodynamics
  • Introduction to Electromagnetism
  • Materials Physics
  • Classical & Quantum Mechanics
  • Electrodynamics and Relativity
  • Optics and Quantum Physics
  • Radiation & Nuclear Physics
  • Thermal & Statistical Physics

Advanced minor in Nanotechnology

  • Nanomaterials
  • Nanotechnology Fundamentals
  • Nanotechnology Characterisation
  • Chemistry Fundamentals 1

Advanced minor in Advanced Physics

  • Advanced Experimental Physics
  • Solid State Physics
  • Advanced Quantum Physics & Photonics
  • Astrophysics & Cosmology

Advanced minor in Space Science

  • Space Exploration
  • Satellites & Space Debris
  • Rocket Science
  • Astrophysics and Cosmology

Complementary majors and minors

This combination of knowledge and skills will prepare you for the complexities of the modern science landscape and equip you to make a meaningful impact in your chosen career path.

All Majors and minors in the Bachelor of Science are complimentary. Suggested combinations are listed below: 

Bachelor of Science full course information

This is just one of the 8 majors that you can choose from. Visit the Bachelor of Science course page to find full course information, explore your study options, and get details on entry requirements, pathways, fees, plan structure and more.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.