Applied Physics
A minor in Applied Physics will provide you with a broad introduction to physics principles and concepts, and is designed to strengthen and broaden a subject major in Earth Sciences, Biology or Chemistry.
Please note
There will be no new enrolments into the Applied Physics minor in 2020.
The Applied Physics minor is designed to show how an understanding of fundamental physics principles can strengthen and enrich subject competence. It has a distinctively interdisciplinary flavour that will enhance the learning experience of both science and non-science students.
You will learn through practical examples drawn from geophysical exploration, nuclear chemistry and biomedical systems, supported by laboratory and field work.
Studying Applied Physics will allow you to:
- Understand how fundamental physics concepts relate to other science subjects (Biology, Earth Sciences, and Chemistry);
- Gain problem-solving skills applied to biological systems, geophysical applications, nuclear chemistry and radiation physics; and
- Gain practical experience in exploration geophysics, biological and biomedical physics, and nuclear chemistry.
Year one paper Physics in Context will appeal if you have an interest in the subject but have studied little or no physics and/or mathematics at school. In years two and three you’ll gain knowledge in geophysical exploration techniques and applications to geological and environmental remote-sensing challenges, and the applications of physics to chemistry, medicine, and the life sciences.
Field trips and practical work
Field trips are planned for the Exploration Geophysics paper in particular, while practical work in nuclear chemistry and biomedical measurements will be undertaken as laboratory exercises.
Facilities
Lab-based exercises make use of specialised teaching and research equipment, and includes resistivity probes, bioelectrodes, amplifiers and oscilloscopes.
Key information
Study Location: | Hamilton |
---|---|
Area of Study: |
Career opportunities
- Geophysical Surveying
- Mineral and Hydrocarbon Exploration
- Medical Imaging and Tomography
- Medical Physics and Instrumentation
Papers
Available Applied Physics papers
100 Level
Code | Paper Title | Points | Occurrence / Location |
---|---|---|---|
APHYS111 | Physics in Context - Ahupūngao o te Ao | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton) |
This is an introductory paper in physics for students who have not studied physics or mathematics at NCEA level 2 or 3. It is intended to support a major in other science subjects. Emphasis is placed on describing everyday physics concepts using correct terminology. Examples of physics in action are drawn from many science areas. T... | |||
PHYSC100 | General Physics | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton) |
This paper provides an introduction to the core ideas in physics. Topics covered include kinematics, mechanics, fluids, electric and magnetic forces and fields, electric circuits, optics, modern physics and relativity, taught in a problem solving context. |
Scholarships and Prizes
Selected scholarships for Applied Physics students.
New to Waikato? The International Excellence Scholarship is worth up to $10,000.
Looking for more scholarships?
Documents
Contacts
School of Science
Phone:
Email: [email protected]
Website: sci.waikato.ac.nz
Facebook: facebook.com/WaikatoScience