A degree in physics qualifies you for a career as a Physicist, Astronomer, or a Physical Oceanographer/Meteorologist.

Physics is the study of the laws of nature - how and why things behave as they do. Physics investigations range from the microscopic world of elementary particles to the cosmological scale of the universe, from the properties of material to the behaviour of living organisms. Physics is the fundamental discipline that provides the framework within which all other sciences and technologies are developed.

If you are good at maths and/or physics you are already one of the elite few. Don't throw your gift away! By enrolling in the Bachelor of Science in physics at James Cook University you will be sought out by employers looking for science graduates who are problem solvers and have acquired the skills of experimentation, data analysis and report writing.

JCU's School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences is recognised for the quality of its teaching and research. The School has a policy of providing high quality individual support for students in its undergraduate courses that is not found in the larger southern universities. This involves small group practical and tutorial sessions, the provision of carefully designed computer-based learning for individual students and regular and informal discussion sessions between staff and students.

At JCU the Bachelor of Science is also available as a joint degree with the Bachelor of Arts, Education, Engineering, Laws or Psychology. Joint degrees provide you with expertise in a complementary discipline in reduced time, generally four to five years.

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (in Physics)
Duration:	3 years full time
Mode:	on campus, full or part time
Campus:	Townsville, Cairns (first year only)
Faculty:	Science, Engineering and Information Technology
QTAC codes:	316061 Townsville; 326061 Cairns

SPECIAL FACILITIES

James Cook University is one of only a few universities in Australia to offer Applied Environmental Physics, and our meteorology and ocenaography options are unique.

PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in physics are eligible to apply to join the Australian Institute of Physics.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Physicists are employed in a wide range of industrial, scientific and educational occupations including fundemental and applied research in the following areas:

• medicine
• meteorology
• environmental monitoring
• energy production
• telecommunications
• computing
• defence
• finance
• modelling
• climate forcasting
• geophysical prospecting

Physicists are often known by other names such as astronomer, meteorologist or physical scientist. There is a continuing demand for graduate physicists in hospitals and teaching. Research organisations such as CSIRO or DSTO as well as manufacturing industries both in Australia and overseas provide employment for graduate physicists.

COURSE STRUCTURE

Selecting your course, and indeed the range and sequence of subjects, is vital to your future career prospects. JCU advisors will help design the right study program for the career you want.

Mathematics subjects are usually studied in conjunction with a Bachelor of Science in physics. Some of the subjects offered in the program include:

• Introductory Physics
• Mathematical Foundations
• Earth Sciences
• Chemistry
• Electromagnetic Phenomena
• Sport Physics
• Descriptive Physcial Oceanography
• Quantum Physics
• Oceanography and Meteorology

HONOURS AND FURTHER STUDIES

Students who demonstrate a strong performance may qualify for entry into the Honours program and a further year of study. The fourth year Honours program consists of thesis research and course work.

From its international reputation for excellence in teaching and research, the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences at James Cook University has attracted a higher proportion of postgraduates than most other universities. Postgraduate research degrees are offered in the following areas:

• Atomic, molecular and particle physics
• Gaseous electronics
• Electromagnetic remote sensing of earth and oceans
• Marine physics
• Environmental physics
• Atmospheric physics

For full course information, students should refer to the current James Cook University Student Handbook.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Australian Students

Applicants must have an exit assessment in English, Physics and Maths B (or Maths C in lieu of Physics) of Sound Achievement or better, over four semesters, in Queensland Year 12 (or the interstate or overseas equivalent). An OP of 10 is required but there is a strong correlation between the probability of passing first year Physics and the school exit results. Thus those students with OP scores close to 10 will need to make a special effort to pass.

Applicants applying for the joing degree programs must satisfy the entry requirements for both degrees.

JCU supports alternative entry by applicants who may not meet the formal entry requirements for a course. These applicants can apply on the basis of their academic, professional and vocational qualifications and/or achievements. Further details are available from JCU's Student Administration offices.

International Students

In addition to academic admission requirements, applicants need to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. For further information, consult JCU's International Student Prospectus, available from the International Student Centre.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Australian Students

Applications for tertiary study in Queensland are processed by the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Center (QTAC). Year 12 applicants applay to QTAC via the web www.qtac.edu.au or by telephone on 1900 971 166. Others apply via the web or complete a Tertiary Study Application Form available from JCU's Student Administration Offices or from the QTAC Guide purchased from most Queensland newsagents. QTAC can be contacted on: (07) 3368 1166.

Applications must reach QTAC by the last working day in September for February commencement, or by mid May (confirm date with QTAC) for mid-year enrolment. Applications received after these dates attract a late fee. Please note not all courses are offered via mid-year enrolment.

International Students

International applicants can apply online or contact the International Student Centre.