Universities and Online Degrees Guide

Stellenbosch University

Bachelor of Science in Theoretical Physics

The Bachelor of Science in Theoretical Physics in Physics is offered by Stellenbosch University.

Program Length: 3 YEARS.

Bachelor of Science in Theoretical Physics offered by Stellenbosch University at the Faculty of Science

This programme provides training to develop well-rounded physicists with the technical and specific scientific skills required to make a unique contribution in research and development environments where physics-related problems are investigated, and who can undertake more intensive research and postgraduate studies in physics, or who can work in the teaching profession, or in tertiary education in science and technology.

The second and third year focus on the subjects Physics and Mathematics/Applied Mathematics. This stream prepares you intensively for the research field of complex systems and for the application of quantum field theory, for instance in condensed matter physics, the physics of biological systems and particle physics. Postgraduate study will prepare you for a professional career as a theoretical physicist.

Because this stream includes statistical physics components, it is closely related to a number of other disciplines and several of its modules have links with the broad field of information technology. Some of the techniques you will be trained in are already being applied in the biological and economic sciences and in geology. Since the curriculum is so focused on physics and mathematics, requiring advanced computer skills, you may look forward to career opportunities in the private sector, where there is an increasing demand for the problem-solving skills that are given major attention in this stream.

This stream leads to an honours programme in Theoretical Physics and also, if applicable elective module are taken, to an honours programme in Physics or Physical and Mathematical Analysis.

Should you wish to qualify as a high school teacher after you have obtained a BSc, you may take the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in the Faculty of Education. Your subject choice for your degree programme, however, should enable you to teach two school subjects. Depending on your undergraduate subject combination, you could teach the following school subjects: Physical Sciences, Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy.

Minimum admission requirements

Afrikaans or English (Home Language or First Additional Language) 50%

Physical Sciences 50%

Mathematics 70%