Do you always ask “Why?” Are you always wondering why things are the way they are and why they work the way they do? Are you looking for a challenging and rewarding experience that will train you to think analytically?
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Physics is the study of matter and energy at all scales, from the sub-nuclear to the dimensions of the universe. It is the fundamental science — all other sciences and technologies rely on the principles of physics. It involves observing and understanding natural phenomena. It is evident in the world around us in everything from the seasons, the motion of objects, the flight of birds, the night sky and the weather, to lasers, electronics and the technology we rely on today. Physics is very much a “hands-on” science, so the most effective way for you to learn the subject is to do physics.
Astronomy teaches you how to study objects at a distance and interpret the information gathered. This helps us begin to understand the universe we live in. The skills you will learn in astronomy are also applicable to remote sensing and its application to environmental problems.
The department offers a comprehensive physics major. The foundation of this program is built in the first two years, as you study mechanics, waves, electricity and magnetism, optics, thermal physics and modern physics.
In your third and fourth years, you will gain a deeper understanding of the fundamentals and delve into more advanced and specialized areas. Specialized topics may include the research interests of department faculty members, as all faculty members are involved in rigorous research programs.
Faculty members also ensure you are provided with a comprehensive view of physics, exposing you to all areas of the subject and describing a wide variety of applications. This enables you to make informed decisions when choosing the areas you may wish to pursue in the future.
Physics Club. Through the Physics Club, you can volunteer to take part in community outreach activities and physics demonstrations in local schools. Not only do these popular events kindle the interest of younger students, but they also provide you with a valuable educational experience.
Physics & Astronomy Degrees. The Department of Physics & Astronomy offers a major in physics, for the following degrees Bachelor of Science (BSc), Bachelor of Arts and Science (BASc), Combined Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Education (BSc/BEd), and the Combined Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Management (BSc/BMgt). Alternatively, you can declare the general major in the sciences and choose physics as one of the three streams. The department is also involved with the delivery of engineering and remote sensing programs.
Physics & Astronomy Courses. Course selections for the program will vary depending on your degree, but may include:
• Astronomy
• Astrophysics
• Biophysics
• Electronics (digital and analog)
• Electricity & Magnetism
• Engineering
• Experimental Physics
• Mechanics
• Nuclear & Particle Physics
• Optics
• Quantum Physics
• Remote Sensing
• Solid State Physics
• Theoretical & Mathematical
• Thermal Physics
• Waves
Minors. Adding a minor to your degree is a great way to explore academic interests beyond your major. A minor is a set of courses comprising a secondary focus of interest. It is generally not related to your major. A minor may be required or optional. Minors are not available in all programs. The minor in physics is available as an adjunct to all majors in the BA, BSc and BASc except the major in physics, the major in remote sensing and the general major in the sciences if physics is chosen as one of the disciplinary streams. Learn more at ulethbridge.ca/artsci/minors.
Honours Thesis. If your GPA is high enough entering your final year, you can opt to complete an undergraduate thesis course. This is an excellent opportunity for you to earn an “Honours Thesis” designation on your degree, as well as obtain extensive research experience.
Learn more about physics & astronomy at ULethbridge, visit ulethbridge.ca/physics
Faculty members eagerly involve students in their research projects, using state-of-the-art equipment and facilities — like the internationally renowned Herschel Science Center. Faculty members collaborate with other departments, community members, employers and local government agencies on research projects and field studies, giving you the opportunity to get even more hands-on experience.
Community Involvement. Faculty members give lectures and laboratory tours for student groups visiting the campus. They also serve as judges in science fairs, answer questions from the public and give interviews to local (and sometimes national) media. The public is welcome to attend any of the public lectures or workshops offered.
Current Research & Areas of Interest:
• Applied Quantum Dynamics
• Remote Sensing
• Relativity & Gravity
• Quantum Computations
• Astrophysical Observations
• Submillimetre Astronomy
• Surface Physics on the Nanometer Scale
• Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR)
• High Temperature Superconductors
• Conformal & String Theories
• Ultra-high Vacuum Variables
• Spectroscopy of Molecules
• Strongly Correlated Systems
• Condensed Matter
• Quantum & Classical Gravity
• Black Holes
• Geodynamics
• Mathematical Physics
• Pharmacokinetics
• Pharmacodynamics
Skills Acquired. In addition to developing exceptional communication skills, you will develop critical and analytical problem-solving skills, research and information management skills and improve your attention to detail. You will leave the program with a strong ability to summarize research findings, excellent fieldwork and risk assessment techniques, as well as in-depth knowledge of environmental issues.
Related Fields. Here are just a few of the options that may be open to you once you’ve earned your degree or with further training:
• Condensed Matter Physicist
• Medical/Health Physicist
• Biophysicist
• Research or Computer Scientist
• Atomic & Molecular Physicist
• Nuclear & Particle Physicist
• Consultant
• Nanoscientist
• Astrophysicist
• Geophysicist
• Teacher
• Meteorologist
• Archaeometrist
• Applied Physicist
• Environmental Physicist
• Neurophysicist
Graduate Studies. The University of Lethbridge’s School of Graduate Studies offers graduate programs at the Master and Doctoral levels, spanning over 60 disciplines — so why not consider pursuing grad school right here in Lethbridge! Whether you choose to do your advanced studies at ULethbridge or another institution, know that your undergraduate degree has set you on the path to post-graduate success.
Professional Disciplines. Your undergraduate degree in physics provides an excellent foundation for education (high school and university), engineering, medicine and dentistry. Graduates from this discipline have also gone on to work in law, journalism and management.
“For the past five years, I have been pursuing a major in physics at the University of Lethbridge. Throughout this time, I’ve had the privilege of making many strong connections with faculty and many community members here in Lethbridge. Some of those connections led me to an internship with the Astronomical Instrumentation Group, where I have had a part in developing innovative techniques in cryogenic instrumentation and highresolution spectroscopy. I’m very thankful to have had these opportunities, which have made my university experience so much more than just an education.”
- Alicia, Physics
Whether you’re looking for a more in-depth learning experience by assisting with research projects or by testing your knowledge in a real-life setting, we can help. Combined with your required coursework, the opportunities outlined below will provide you with a solid foundation for further studies and an excellent framework for a challenging and rewarding career — whatever direction you decide to go.
Earn course credit for career-related paid, volunteer or community service work experience. This program is specially designed to allow you to integrate principles learned in the classroom in a practical work setting.
For more information, visit: ulethbridge.ca/appliedstudies
ULethbridge is proud to offer you the chance to participate in co-op. Co-op allows you to gain work experience directly related to your studies and make invaluable contacts in the workforce, all while earning a competitive salary. Completion of the program allows you to receive a co-op designation on your degree and, most importantly, a kickstart to your career the minute you graduate.
For more information, visit: ulethbridge.ca/coop
In addition to your regular courses, you can contribute to departmental research activities. For example, you can complete an independent study course or gain employment as a research assistant. If your GPA is high enough, you can also enrol in undergraduate thesis-based courses where research is a component of your studies.
Contact your department to learn more!
Your decision to explore a university education is the first step toward a great future — now let us help you navigate your degree options at ULethbridge and set you on the road to success. Do you have questions about what field of study best suits you? Would you like help with program and registration planning and just can’t find the answers? If so, you should speak to an academic advisor today — advisors have the answers to these questions and many more.
To learn more about the support services available to you through our academic advisors, visit: ulethbridge.ca/artsci/advising