Physics & Astronomy, Bachelor

Physics is the scientific discipline that deals with matter and energy and their interactions on scales from the sub-nuclear to the entire universe. It seeks to provide the deepest possible understanding of how nature works, with the aim of arriving at a complete model of the natural world. Astronomy focuses on understanding the origins, properties, and functions of the universe and its planets, stars, and galaxies, and everything in between. Physics is an important tool in astronomical research, but astronomical research often leads to insights into physics, too, such as the exciting connections between cosmology and elementary particles.

At York, a broad mix of experimental and theoretical physics and astronomy is taught in a research-intensive environment. Students have the option of pursuing studies in three different streams distinguished by course requirements: Physics, Applied Physics, and Astronomy and Astrophysics. Regardless of the stream, students gain a thorough understanding of fundamental concepts in physics, such as classical mechanics, relativity, modern optics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics and statistical mechanics. In the Physics stream, students have the most flexibility in choosing the direction of studies in third and fourth year. For example, a student interested in theoretical physics might take relevant courses in applied mathematics. In the Applied Physics stream, additional training is specified in more technological areas such as electronics. Students in the Astronomy and Astrophysics stream add courses in subjects ranging from planets to the universe as a whole, all of which include training in astrophysics.

All streams develop practical skills in mathematics and computing by promoting applications to problems in physics or astronomy. Students gain the ability to think critically and to analyze and solve complex problems, talents which are in high demand in both the private and public sectors. A four to sixteen month internship is available between third and fourth year.