Physics (2024)

Physics is a branch of science that studies matter, energy, and the relation between them. It aims to understand the entire world, from the sub-atomic to the cosmological. Physics papers cover theoretical and experimental subject areas. A distinctive feature of the physics teaching and research at the University of Waikato is its focus on biophysics and biomedical applications.

Note: There will be no new enrolments in the Physics major from 2018.

PHYSC100 and PHYSC101 do not count towards a major in Physics.


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  • Prescriptions for the PGCert(Phys), PGDip(Phys), BSc(Hons), MSc, MSc(Research) and MSc(Tech) [1]

    Enrolment in papers towards the BSc(Hons) is only by invitation of the Head. To complete a BSc(Hons) in Physics, students must complete 120 points at 500 level, including at least 30 points in research (normally PHYSC591) and at least 30 points from the papers listed for Physics.

    Students in masters degrees are normally required to take a thesis and a selection of papers.

    Candidates for these graduate qualifications should select their papers in consultation with the Head of School.

    [1] The MSc(Tech) will not be offered in 2024.

  • Prescriptions for the MPhil

    The Master of Philosophy is a one year research-based degree in which students undertake a programme of approved and supervised research that leads to a thesis which critically investigates an approved topic of substance and significance, demonstrates expertise in the methods of research and scholarship, displays intellectual independence and makes a substantial original contribution to the subject area concerned, and is of publishable quality.

  • Prescriptions for the PhD

    The Doctor of Philosophy is a three year research-based degree in which students undertake a programme of approved and supervised research that leads to a thesis which critically investigates an approved topic of substance and significance, demonstrates expertise in the methods of research and scholarship, displays intellectual independence and makes a substantial original contribution to the subject area concerned, and is of publishable quality.

  • 500 Level

    Code Paper Title Points Occurrence / Location
    PHYSC592Dissertation60.024X (Hamilton)
    A report on the findings of a theoretical or empirical investigation.
    PHYSC594Physics Thesis120.024X (Hamilton)
    An externally examined piece of written work that reports on the findings of supervised research.
  • 800 Level

    Code Paper Title Points Occurrence / Location
    PHYSC800Physics MPhil Thesis120.024X (Hamilton)
    No description available.
  • 900 Level

    Code Paper Title Points Occurrence / Location
    PHYSC900Physics PhD Thesis120.024I (Hamilton), 24J (Hamilton), 24K (Hamilton) & 24X (Hamilton)
    No description available.

2024 Catalogue of Papers information current as of : 22 March 2024 8:11pm

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