Study Physics at Otago University

Physics encompasses the study of the universe from the largest galaxies to the smallest subatomic particles. It is the basis for many other sciences, including chemistry and geology. Physics challenges our imaginations with concepts like relativity and quantum mechanics, it provides an understanding of the world around us from electromagnetic space storms to melting ice in the Antarctica, and it leads to great discoveries underpinning technologies that change our lives such as computer chips, lasers, solar photovoltaic cells, and magnetic resonance imaging.

Find out more about physics research at Otago.

Our physics graduates are problem solvers. Their analytical skills make them versatile and adaptable and desirable in many technical fields. A bachelor degree in physics provides a great foundation for many careers including:

Fundamental Physics Research
Engineering
Robotics
Computer Science
Computational modelling
Information Science
Digital and Electronics Technology
Bio-Medical Science
Energy Science

Our physics graduates get interesting well-paid jobs all over the world. Employers know the additional skills and expertise that a physics major brings. Physics graduates can expect career salaries similar to those of computer science and engineering majors. 

Undergraduate Degrees

At Otago we offer a science-focused Physics degree and more specialist degrees in Electronics, and Energy Science and Technology.

Physics – Science-focused degree covering the fundamentals of theoretical and experimental physics. 

Electronics – A modern systems' approach to electronics, focusing on information processing and the circuits used to achieve this.

Energy – A unique undergraduate programme focused on the science and technology behind the transition to more sustainable energy sources and energy use. 

Engineering Intermediate

An engineering intermediate year for one of the major engineering schools in New Zealand can be taken at the University of Otago.

Find out about enrolling in an Engineering Intermediate year at Otago.

Recommendations for your study programme

There are a range of options for constructing your degree at Otago. To obtain advice tailored to your goals, contact one of our study advisors.

Find out how to get course advice for your studies in Physics, Energy, or Electronics.

Papers Offered by the Physics Department

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[Some papers indicated with an asterisk (*) may no longer be on offer but would be an allowed prerequisite for current papers.]

Show the undergraduate papers on offer in the Physics Department Show the required prerequisites for 200-300 level papers in Physics, Electronics, and Energy Studies Explore the requirements for a major in a degree in Physics, Electronics, or Energy Studies

Major requirements

For a Physics major (BSc) you need PHSI 131 (or PHSI191), 132, 231, 232, 282, 331, 332, and 381, MATH 160, 170, 202, and 203, one other 300-level PHSI or ELEC paper, and 126 further points, which must include 18 points at 200-level or above. Up to 90 points may be taken from outside Science. For an Electronics major (BSc) you need PHSI 132, 232, 282, and 365, MATH 170, 202 and 203, ELEC 253, 353, 358 and 361, and 162 further points including 18 points at 200-level or above. Up to 90 points may be taken from outside Science.

For an Energy Management major (BAppSc) you need one of PHSI 131, 132, or 191, PHSI 243, MATH 160 and 170, EMAN 201, 204, 301, and 308, GEOG 388 or GEOG 392, one further 300-level paper approved by the Programme director, and 180 further points, including either requirements for an approved minor or approved second major subject or other approved papers.

For an Energy Science and Technology major (BSc) you need one 100-level PHSI paper, PHSI 243, MATH 160 and 170, EMAN 201, 204, 301, and 308, two approved Science papers at 300-level, and 180 further points; must include 54 points at 200-level or above. Up to 90 points may be taken from outside Science.

Minor Requirements

For a minor in Physics (BA, MusB, BPA, BTheol, BSc, BAppSc, BCom, BHealSc, or BASc) you need five PHSI papers, at least three of which must be above 100-level, including at least one at 300-level or above.

For a minor in Energy Management (BA, MusB, BPA, BTheol, BSc, BAppSc, BCom, BHealSc, or BASc) you need one of PHSI 131, 132, or 191, EMAN 201, EMAN 204, and either EMAN 301 or EMAN 308.

For a minor in Electronics (BA, MusB, BPA, BTheol, BSc, BAppSc, BCom, BHealSc, or BASc) you need one of PHSI 131, 132, or 191, MATH 160 or 170, ELEC 253, PHSI 282, and one 300-level ELEC paper.