Why Bachelor of Science?
Explore the fundamental laws of the universe and apply these principles to the study of Earth and its processes. Take courses from physics and geophysics to discover the physical properties and processes of our surrounding environment. Understand natural phenomena through the exploration of matter, energy and force, gaining insights into the underlying principles that govern our world.
Combine the studies of Physics and Geophysics in our Bachelor of Science, preparing you to work in related fields directly after graduating.
You’ll learn how to harness the tools of physics to uncover what lies at the core of our Earth. Employ theories and techniques from geophysics to comprehend geological phenomena and address practical problems through hands-on laboratory and fieldwork.
Overview
Geophysics relies on the principles of physics to understand our Earth’s interior, magnetic and gravitational fields. Your major will focus on the reasons why natural disasters occur, including earthquakes and erupting volcanoes. Learn how to apply mathematical models and experimental data to understand natural phenomena.
Develop a deep understanding of the solid, liquid, and atmospheric elements present on Earth and other planets within our solar system. Use three-dimensional technology to map energy and mineral resources in laboratory settings. Collect data through fieldwork and use specialised computer labs to model and interpret our world on a global, exploration and environmental scale.
Learn from world-class research academics in their field, inspiring you to pursue careers of interest. Benefit from industry collaboration, building partnerships with future employers. Bring together the laws of nature, from the smallest particles to the largest resources to predict our Earth’s future state.
Key features
Fast-track your future in science and research
Choose the 4-year Bachelor of Science (Honours) to build advanced research skills, or fast-track into a Master of Research with just 1–1.25 years of extra study.
Build a strong foundation in mathematics concepts to underpin your application of physical laws. - Gain knowledge in how nature controls distribution of different types of rocks and minerals.
- Dive into geophysical techniques to determine mineral and energy resources.
- Get hands-on and use practical problem-solving techniques using laboratory experiments.
- Focus on field and wave-based geophysical phenomena including geothermic and earthquake seismology.
- Examine how your studies can be applied at global, exploration and environmental scales.
What you'll learn
In Adelaide University’s Bachelor of Science, you can explore a range of majors in your first year before deciding on a field of interest. Study a flexible course structure that is designed to build your analytical and computational skills. Graduate equipped with the knowledge and skillset to explore the unlimited opportunities of a career in physics and aligned disciplines.
Your major in Physics and Geophysics will put your skills to practice through hands-on fieldwork, where you’ll collect data and map your findings. Cover topics in gravity, magnetics, earthquake seismology and seismic surveying, strengthening your knowledge in geophysical activities. Principles of physics and mathematics will underpin your exploration into earth science to better understand the Earth's past, present, and future.
Build a solid foundation in physics, mathematics and geology, combining the laws of natural phenomena with Earth’s current state. Learn about the structure of the Earth and its processes occurring at a surface and deeper level. Discover the theoretical framework of quantum mechanics to understand the strange and counterintuitive behaviour of atoms and subatomic particles. Get down to a macro and microscopic level to explore the physical properties of solid and liquid matter. Determine the physical characteristics of the solid out part of our Earth, mapping and discovering the critical mineral and energy resources that lie beneath.
Our wide range of electives give you the freedom to explore a little bit of everything. You could study another area of science or venture into non-science areas such as arts, languages, business, mathematics – or something else entirely.
In your final year, you’ll develop your professional practice skills through a work-integrated learning experience, including flexible options such as research projects or an industry placement in your chosen area of interest.
Participate in collaborative learning experiences on campus through tutorials, workshops, seminars, and lectures. Some courses may also offer online delivery, providing flexibility in your study approach.
Our degree will prepare you to graduate with the theoretical and practical skills necessary to be an expert in your field.
Majors
The Bachelor of Science is also available with majors in the following:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Animal Behaviour
- Animal Science
- Biotechnology
- Chemistry
- Computational Physics
- Ecology
- Environmental Science
- Environmental and Geospatial Science
- Evolutionary Biology
- Evolutionary Biology and Palaeontology
- Experimental Physics
- Food Science and Technology
- Genetics
- Geology
- Geology and Earth Resources
- Geology and Palaeontology
- Geophysics
- Marine and Wildlife Conservation
- Medicinal and Biological Chemistry
- Microbiology and Immunology
- Nuclear Chemistry
- Nuclear and Radiation Physics
- Physics and Geophysics
- Plant Biology
- Pure and Applied Chemistry
- Soil Science
- Space Science and Astrophysics
- Theoretical Physics.
Degree Structure: Bachelor of Science majoring in Physics and Geophysics
Program code: BSCIE
Complete 144 units comprising:
- 42 to 54 units for Core Courses, and
- Either:
- 78 to 102 units for one Major from Majors, or
- 54 units for Discipline courses, and
- 0 to 48 units for Electives
Study plan
A study plan sets out the courses you will need to complete and the recommended timing for each one. This will help to guide your enrolment in each study period, alongside any additional information provided below. If you have received a personalised plan or alternative advice from your Program Director, please refer to that guidance in the first instance, or seek help from your Program Director or Student Assist if you are unsure.
Enrolment information
Find details about the rules and notes that apply to your program, along with other essential information required for successful enrolment. Supplementary supporting resources may also be provided where applicable.
Courses
Listed here are all the courses that contribute to your program, including elective options that can be chosen. These courses come together to form your study plan. Courses fall into different categories, each of which have specific unit values that need to be met under the program rules.
What courses you'll study
Complete 144 units comprising:
- 42 to 54 units for Core Courses, and
- Either:
- 78 to 102 units for one Major from Majors, or
- 54 units for Discipline courses, and
- 0 to 48 units for Electives
Complete 42 to 54 units comprising:
- 6 to 12 units for all Program Core, and
- 12 to 18 units from Common Core, and
- 6 to 30 units from Core Selective
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Science of People, Society and the Future Planet
|
Course code
SCIE1001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Data Skills for Scientists
|
Course code
STAT1000
|
Units
6
|
Common core description
Common core courses are interdisciplinary courses that build key graduate capabilities.
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
An Ethically Rich Life
|
Course code
COREX001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Fact or Fiction: Data for Everyone
|
Course code
COREX002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Igniting Change: Ideas to Action
|
Course code
COREX003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Transforming Learning through First Nations Knowledges
|
Course code
COREX004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Responsible AI: Bridging Ethics, Education and Industry
|
Course code
COREX005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Building Belonging: Navigating Cultural Complexities
|
Course code
COREX006
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Biology 1A: Molecules, Genes and Cells
|
Course code
BIOL1003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Biology 1B: Evolution and Diversity of Organisms
|
Course code
BIOL1004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Chemistry
|
Course code
CHEM1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Chemistry 1A
|
Course code
CHEM1002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Chemistry 1B
|
Course code
CHEM1003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Planet Earth
|
Course code
EART1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Earth, Climate and Life Systems
|
Course code
EART1012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Mathematics
|
Course code
MATH1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Calculus 1
|
Course code
MATH1004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Calculus 2
|
Course code
MATH1005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Essential Mathematics
|
Course code
MATH1015
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Linear Algebra
|
Course code
MATHX104
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Differential Equations
|
Course code
MATHX202
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Physics
|
Course code
PHYS1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Physics 1A
|
Course code
PHYS1001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Physics 1B
|
Course code
PHYS1002
|
Units
6
|
Notes
-
Program Core - Students in the following Majors will not enrol in STAT1000 Data Skills for Scientists:
Computational Physics, Experimental Physics, Nuclear and Radiation Physics, Physics and Geophysics, Space Science and Astrophysics, Theoretical Physics
Complete at least 72 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Planet Earth
|
Course code
EART1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Geophysics 2
|
Course code
EART2003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Geophysics 3B: Electromagnetics and Seismology
|
Course code
EART3016
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Geophysics 3A: Potential Fields and Geothermics
|
Course code
EART3017
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Calculus 1
|
Course code
MATH1004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Calculus 2
|
Course code
MATH1005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Linear Algebra
|
Course code
MATHX104
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Multivariable Calculus
|
Course code
MATHX203
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Quantum Mechanics and Experimental Physics 2
|
Course code
PHYS2001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Electromagnetism 2
|
Course code
PHYS2002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Solid State Physics and Photonics 2
|
Course code
PHYS2003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Electromagnetism, Quantum and Statistical Mechanics
|
Course code
PHYS3002
|
Units
12
|
Notes
- The courses PHYS1001 Physics 1A, PHYS1002 Physics 1B, MATH1004 Calculus 1, MATH1005 Calculus 2 and MATHX104 Linear Algebra all require students to have passed certain SACE Stage 2 subjects, or equivalent subjects, to be eligible to enrol.
- Calculus 1 is only required for foundation pathway students.
- Please see the course information webpages for prerequisite and/or assumed knowledge details.
- Foundational pathways are available to students without this background, which may increase the duration of the program beyond 3 years. Please contact the Science Program Director to discuss specific enrolment advice based on your previous study.
Electives description
A flexible course choice within your degree.
Complete 0 to 48 units for either of the following:
- 0 to 48 units from Free Electives, or
- 0 to 48 units from Electives - unspecified plan
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Agricultural Production
|
Course code
AGRI1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Soils and Landscapes
|
Course code
AGRI1003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Environmental Sustainability and Soil Carbon 2
|
Course code
AGRI2000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Soil and Water Resources
|
Course code
AGRI2004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Crop and Pasture Production
|
Course code
AGRI2005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Agricultural Biochemistry
|
Course code
AGRI2006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Microbiology and Invertebrate Biology
|
Course code
AGRI2013
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Soil and Water Management and Conservation 3
|
Course code
AGRI3011
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Contaminants in the Agro-ecosystem
|
Course code
AGRI3012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Soil and Plant Nutrition
|
Course code
AGRI3013
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Soil Ecology and Nutrient Cycling 3
|
Course code
AGRI3014
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Biology 1C: Molecular Biology and Biomedical Science
|
Course code
BIOL1031
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Ecological Issues 1
|
Course code
BIOL1032
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Zoology 2
|
Course code
BIOL2004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Principles of Biotechnology 2
|
Course code
BIOL2019
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Botany 2
|
Course code
BIOL2023
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Plant Science
|
Course code
BIOL2024
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Plant Identification 2
|
Course code
BIOL2049
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Animal Identification in Wildlife Conservation 2
|
Course code
BIOL2050
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Principles of Ecology 2
|
Course code
BIOL2051
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Molecular and Biomedical Science Practical 2
|
Course code
BIOL2900
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Microbial Ecology
|
Course code
BIOLX200
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Bioinformatics: Sequencing Technologies
|
Course code
BIOLX401
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Bioinformatics: Overview
|
Course code
BIOLX402
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Environmental Chemistry
|
Course code
CHEM1004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Environmental Chemistry 2
|
Course code
CHEM2010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Food Chemistry
|
Course code
CHEMX200
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Problem Solving and Programming
|
Course code
COMP1002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Object-Oriented Programming
|
Course code
COMP1005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Extra-terrestrial Geoscience
|
Course code
EART1002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Geophysics 2
|
Course code
EART2003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Sedimentary Geology 2
|
Course code
EART2008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Structural Geology 2
|
Course code
EART2009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Igneous and Metamorphic Geology 2
|
Course code
EART2010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Geochemistry 2
|
Course code
EART2011
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Mineral Resources 2
|
Course code
EART2012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Palaeontology and Palaeoenvironments 3
|
Course code
EART3001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Mineral Resources 3
|
Course code
EART3014
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Space Missions
|
Course code
EART4005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Fire and Culture
|
Course code
EARTX300
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Earth Observation for the Environmental Sciences
|
Course code
ECOL3001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Surveying and Spatial Sciences
|
Course code
ENGI1006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Remote Sensing
|
Course code
ENGI2002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Spatial Data Acquisition and Analysis
|
Course code
ENGI2004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Food Processing and Safety
|
Course code
ENGPX415
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Fundamentals of Climate Change
|
Course code
ENVI1001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Physical Geography and Human Environmental Impacts
|
Course code
ENVI1010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Environmental Interpretation and Community Engagement
|
Course code
ENVI2007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Park and Ecotourism Management
|
Course code
ENVI2008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Climate and Sustainability
|
Course code
ENVI2010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Environmental Impact Assessment 3
|
Course code
ENVI3002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
GIS for Agriculture and Natural Resources
|
Course code
ENVI3008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Environmental Pollution and Monitoring
|
Course code
ENVI3010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
GIS for Environmental Management
|
Course code
ENVI3011
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Environmental Technologies 3
|
Course code
ENVI3012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Food and Science Technology
|
Course code
FOOD1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Future Foods
|
Course code
FOOD3005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Food Microbiology
|
Course code
FOOD3015
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Sensory Evaluations of Food
|
Course code
FOODX200
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Food Production in a Future Climate
|
Course code
FOODX300
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Food Microbiology
|
Course code
FOODX500
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Food Quality and Regulation
|
Course code
FOODX501
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Discrete Mathematics
|
Course code
MATH1006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Geometry
|
Course code
MATH1007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Mathematics in Action
|
Course code
MATH1012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Complex Analysis
|
Course code
MATHX100
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Mathematical Modelling
|
Course code
MATHX103
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Data Taming and Prediction
|
Course code
MATHX105
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Critical Evaluation in Data Science
|
Course code
MATHX106
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Algebra
|
Course code
MATHX201
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Real Analysis
|
Course code
MATHX206
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Nutrition
|
Course code
NUTR1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Astronomy 1
|
Course code
PHYS1003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Nuclear and Radiation Physics 2
|
Course code
PHYS2006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Scientific Data: Analysis and Visualisation
|
Course code
SCIE2000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Human Behaviour and Conservation 3
|
Course code
SCIE3001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Web Cartography
|
Course code
SCIE3003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Science International Study Tour
|
Course code
SCIE3009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Communicating Science
|
Course code
SCIEX300
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Probability and Statistics
|
Course code
STATX100
|
Units
6
|
Notes
-
Electives - unspecified plan - The electives listed above are for students in the unspecified plan of the Bachelor of Science. Students in a defined plan should refer to the electives listed within their major.
Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Geophysics 3C: Seismic Processing and Interpretation
|
Course code
EART3004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Experimental Physics
|
Course code
PHYSX301
|
Units
6
|
Complete 0 to 18 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Engineering Programming
|
Course code
COMP1006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Electrical and Electronic Systems
|
Course code
ENGE1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Astronomy 1
|
Course code
PHYS1003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Classical Physics 2
|
Course code
PHYS2004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Space Science and Astrophysics 2
|
Course code
PHYS2005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Nuclear and Radiation Physics 2
|
Course code
PHYS2006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Optics and Photonics 3
|
Course code
PHYS3004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Dynamics and Relativity
|
Course code
PHYS3005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Solid State Physics 3
|
Course code
PHYS3006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Quantum Mechanics
|
Course code
PHYS3007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Atmospheric and Astrophysics 3
|
Course code
PHYS3008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Computational Physics
|
Course code
PHYSX300
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Nuclear and Radiation Physics 3
|
Course code
PHYSX302
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
Physics encompasses a wide array of fields, offering you a diverse range of career prospects once you graduate.
You could work in mining and oil industries, being at the helm of searching and surveying for natural resource deposits. You might even work with an environmental agency, identifying and mitigating threats to the environment.
Career outcomes may include:
- Geophysicist
- Systems analyst
- Laboratory technician
- Forensic laboratory technician.
You might also like to pursue postgraduate studies or work in research in a field of further interest.
Industry trends
The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy states that ‘with rapid new advances in technology and exploration, opportunities are limitless for the future of the Australian mining industry’ (2023). With the sector growing 7.4% in the last year, the demand for critical minerals is expected to increase and bring a boom in mineral exploration job opportunities.
Accreditation
This program is accredited by the Australian Institute of Physics. Graduates are eligible for membership of the AIP.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your program team
Dr Lorena Del Castillo
Program Director
College of Science
School of Physics, Chemistry and Earth Sciences
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
