Physics & Astrophysics | Academic Advising & Career Centre

Physics & Astrophysics Major (HBSc)

Admissions Category: Physical & Environmental Sciences

Program Overview

Physics is among the oldest scientific disciplines. It seeks to understand the interactions and evolution of all objects in the universe. This program offers a solid physics and astrophysics background with the opportunity to explore other disciplines. It gives students the flexibility in upper year physics requirements, where they can plan their own upper division courses to fit their individual objectives. We specialize in computational, environmental, and planetary physics.

Complementary Programs:

, .

Check out future career opportunities and skills acquired from completing this program:

Competencies & Skills

Apply physical principles to problems and formulate solutions
Integrate theoretical approaches
Mathematical and computational modelling
Design and execute experiments
Critical thinking

Careers for Graduates

Instrumentation Technologist in Mining Processing and Power Generation
Junior Policy and Data Analyst in Government
Quality Assurance Analyst in Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals
Junior Associate in Information Technology Service Providers
Tester / Developer in Software Solutions
Product Tester in Industrial and Electronics Manufacturing

Further Education

Physics – Master of Science
Computer Science – Master
Software Development
Finance
Engineering
Nuclear Medicine

Program Pathway

Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4

Year 1
Choose Your Courses Wisely

2.5 credits as follows:
[or ]
Explore different kinds of courses; this will also help with fulfilling and electives.
Use and the to plan your courses and program.

Develop Your Academic & Research Skills

Attend Facilitated Study Groups.
Use the for support and to develop your problem solving skills.
Writing support is available at the Centre for Teaching & Learning (CTL) .
Schedule an appointment with your Program Librarian for research assistance

Apply Theory to Practice

Attend monthly research talks presented by the Centre for Research in Earth System Science (CRESS)
Start building your Co-Curricular Record (CCR) and search for Experiential Learning opportunities.

Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)

Join the (EPSA) and get involved in their activities.
Volunteer in DSL’s&�Բ��;Alternative Reading Week program to gain experience and knowledge about social change and community development.

Plan for Your Future Career

Volunteer with organizations to explore your interests; check listings on (>Jobs & Recruitment).
Attend the in September and register with ’s&�Բ��;to explore opportunities.

Year 2
Choose Your Courses Wisely

2.5 credits as follows:
1.5 credits from: , , , .
Use and meet with your Program Advisor to ensure you are on track with your degree.

Develop Your Academic & Research Skills

Check the Research Catalogue and jobs on for possible research opportunities.
Drop by the to have your course-related questions answered.

Apply Theory to Practice

Check out opportunities through the International Student Centre (ISC) to gain valuable international and research experiences.

Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)

Look into ISC’s&�Բ��;Global Learning opportunities, such as the , Explore, or Student Exchange Programs.
Consider volunteering for science events, such as the and .

Plan for Your Future Career

Gain experience by applying for a summer, part-time or Work Study position via (>Jobs & Recruitment).
Considering grad school? Speak to professors and advisors early so you are on track.
Explore careers through the AA&CC’s&�Բ��; and programs.

Year 3
Choose Your Courses Wisely

2.0 credits from (taken in Years 3 to 4):
,
,
,
,
,
,
,
[or ]
Use to ensure you are on track with your degree.

Develop Your Academic & Research Skills

Take an elective course to expand your academic horizons and skills.
Contact professors about summer research opportunities.
Attend the department’s&�Բ��;iSPEAC seminar series where invited guests share their cutting-edge research.

Apply Theory to Practice

Build on your skills and knowledge through relevant events offered through your department, , DSL and the .

Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)

Consider running for an elected position in or another campus club.
Become a tutor at the .

Plan for Your Future Career

Plan a career path with a staff member at the .
Check for networking events and employer information sessions to attend.
Attend the in September.

Year 4
Choose Your Courses Wisely

Consider an independent research project with a faculty member (or ).
Ensure you have fulfilled your .
Use to ensure you are on track to graduate.
Register your “Intent to Graduate” on by the deadline.

Develop Your Academic & Research Skills

Consider taking a research course (& ).
Enter to win the UTSC Library or .
Attend the iSPEAC seminar series.

Apply Theory to Practice

Attend the in January to meet with potential employers looking to hire students for summer and full-time positions relevant to your field.

Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)

Participate in the AA&CC’s&�Բ��;program to learn and network with an alumni mentor about transitioning into the work field or further education.

Plan for Your Future Career

Attend the AA&CC’s&�Բ��; job search conference in April/May.
Attend a orientation for a job search “crash course” and for access to full-time job listings.
Discuss grad school plans early with staff at the AA&CC and your professors; get your Personal Statement reviewed in the .

Glossary

AACC - Academic Advising and Career Centre (www.utsc.utoronto.ca/aacc)
CCR - Co-Curricular Record (https://clnx.utoronto.ca/ccr/overview.htm)
CLNx - Career Co-Curricular Learning Network (https://clnx.utoronto.ca/home.htm)
CTL - Centre for Teaching and Learning (/ctl)
DSL - Department of Student Life (/studentlife)
EPSA - Environmental and Physical Sciences Students Association (https://www.myepsa.ca)
ISC - International Student Centre (/utscinternational)
iSPEAC - invited Speakers in Physics Environmental science And Chemistry (/physsci/ispeac)
SCSU - Scarborough Campus Students Union (https://www.scsu.ca)