PhysicsOn this page: Introduction | Programs | See also: Faculty Members | Course Descriptions | Course Winter Timetable | Introduction |
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Physics is the study of natural phenomena at the most fundamental level. Physicists investigate the properties of the states of matter and the structure and behaviour of the components of matter. The gravitational, electromagnetic and nuclear interactions are examined and different systems of mechanics including classical, relativistic, quantum and statistical, are developed to describe interactions between systems ranging from sub-atomic to galactic in size. A program in physics has much to offer you. Besides traditional careers in teaching and research, knowledge of Physics is a powerful tool for a career in the Environmental or Life Sciences. An understanding of Physics is essential for those who are concerned about how society is affected by the impact of modern technology. The conceptual tools one acquires as a physicist can be applied with great success to many occupations. The Specialist Program offers an intensive preparation for a career
in Physics. By choosing courses from the wide variety offered, one can emphasize
experimental, theoretical or applied sides of physics. In fourth year,
students intending to undertake graduate studies are encouraged to
take
advanced optional courses. These courses are offered in areas such
as High Energy Physics, Quantum Optics, Condensed Matter, Geophysics and
Atmospheric Physics, reflecting the research excellence of the faculty. A number of joint Physics Specialist programs are also offered in cooperation with the Departments of Astronomy, Chemistry, Computer Science, Environment, Geology, Mathematics, Philosophy, and Physiology. The Professional Experience Year program (“PEY”: see also page 19 and www.peyonline.com) is available to eligible, full-time Arts & Science Specialist students after their second year of study. Physics students are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to apply their scientific and mathematical skills in a 12-16 month professional internship. Scientifically literate teachers are important for educating citizens in modern society. Students interested in a career as a teacher should contact the Associate Chair for Undergraduate Studies for advice on suitable programs and courses. The Departmental website gives detailed information on programs and courses, and describes the operation of the Department and the counselling services available. All students, most particularly those entering first year, are strongly urged to consult the website before term begins. Associate Chair (Undergraduate Studies): Enquiries: Web site: http://www.physics.utoronto.ca Physics ProgramsEnrolment in the Physics programs requires completion of four courses; no minimum GPA is required. Students with a good grade in PHY110Y1 may apply to the Physics Undergraduate Office for permission to enter a Physics Program requiring (PHY131H1, PHY132H1)/138Y1 or (PHY151H1, PHY152H1)/140Y1. Biophysics (Science program) Consult Associate Chair (Undergraduate Studies), Department of Physics or Physiology. Specialist program: First Year: Second Year: Third Year: Fourth Year: Molecular Biophysics (Science program) Consult Associate Chair (Undergraduate Studies), Department of Physics, Biochemistry, or Chemistry. Molecular Biophysics is the application of physics and physical chemistry to biological problems at the molecular level. Ideas, instrumentation and computational models of physics and chemistry are used to understand the molecules of life. What are the three-dimensional structures of these molecules? How do these structures change over time? How do molecules interact to relay information? What are the forces that govern biomolecular interactions? How can we manipulate these molecules for the benefit of humankind? These are some of the questions that molecular biophysicists attempt to address rigorously. Of course many of the answers to these questions will have profound implications for human health. The Molecular Biophysics Program combines mathematics, physics, chemistry and biochemistry in an unusual and exciting opportunity for undergraduates, including undergraduate research in some of the finest laboratories in the world. Specialist program: (16.0 full courses of their equivalent, including at least ONE 400-series course) First Year (3.0 FCE): Physics (Science program) Consult Professor D. Bailey, Associate Chair (Undergraduate Studies), Department of Physics. Specialist program: (13.0 full courses or their equivalent, including at least one full-course at the 400 level) First Year: Second Year: Third Year: Notes: 1. Students intending to pursue a career in Industry are encouraged
to take advantage of the Professional Experience Year Program. Major program (7.5 full courses or their equivalent, including at least 2.0 full-course equivalents at the 300+ level, with at least 0.5 full-course equivalents at the 400 level) A Physics Major program is appropriate for students interested in a more flexible and diverse undergraduate physics program. including students from other Mathematical, Physical, Life, or Environmental Sciences, Archaeology, technological or science based business or policy, education or teaching. First Year: Second Year:
Notes: Minor programs: A. ‘Core’ Minor (4 full courses or their equivalent) First Year: Second Year: Third Year: B. ‘Life, Environmental, and General’ Minor (4 full courses or their equivalent) First Year: Second Year: Third Year: Earth Systems: Physics and Environment : see Centre for Environment Physics and Astronomy: see Astronomy Physics and Chemistry: see Chemical Physics in the Chemistry section Physics and Computer Science: see Computer Science Physics and Geology: see Geology Physics and Mathematics: see Mathematics Physics and Philosophy (Science program) Consult Associate Chair (Undergraduate Studies), Department of Physics or Philosophy. Specialist program: (16.0 full courses or their equivalent, including at least 2 full-course equivalents at the 400 level) First Year: Second Year: Third Year: Fourth Year: Any Year: Planetary Science: see Astronomy and Astrophysics
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Second or Third Year: