Overview
Applied Physics uses the science of physics to solve engineering problems or develop new technologies.
Only available as a minor.
At a Glance
Curriculum
Why study applied physics at »»ÆÞ̽»¨?
At »»ÆÞ̽»¨, the Physics department promotes a personal experience for students, with experiential learning as a key feature — students learn through collaborative, hands-on activities.
Students in Applied Physics may take courses in:
- digital signal processing and electronics
- medical physics
- thermodynamics
- energy production and the environment
- the physics of music and sound
Applied Physics is available as a minor only.
Not sure about the difference between a major, a minor, an honours, and a certificate?
Program highlights
Undergraduate research opportunities
Faculty are actively involved in research, and there are many opportunities for students to participate in research through faculty-supervised independent research projects during summers or during academic terms.
Research opportunities in the Department of Physics include:
- experimental subatomic physics
- theoretical particle physics
- materials science
- medical physics
- stellar astrophysics
Facilities
Physics students have access to:
- an integrated laboratory-classroom for experiential learning
- an optics lab and darkroom
- astronomy, astrophysics, thermodynamic and fluids, and electronics and signal processing labs
- the »»ÆÞ̽»¨ Gemini Observatory (MAGO)
PHYS 1041 — Physics for the Life Sciences
This algebra-based course introduces and describes from a Physics perspective the many physical processes involving living organisms. Topics include biomechanics, kinesiology, energy and the body, fluid flow, electrical signaling, electrocardiography and electroencephalography, sound and hearing, light and vision, microscopy, and imaging of brain function. (Format: Integrated Lecture/Collaborative Learning/Laboratory 6 Hours)
PHYS 1401 — The Physics of Music and Sound
This course explores various aspects of music production, sound transmission, and sound perception. Topics include: simple harmonic motion, waves and sound, standing waves, spectral analysis, the human ear and voice, auditorium acoustics, and woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. It also introduces basic mathematical analysis. (Format: Integrated Lecture and Laboratory 3 Hours)
PHYS 2801 — Data Acquisition and Analysis
This course provides techniques and software tools that assist in the use of computers to enhance work in science. It introduces basic methodology for data manipulation such as error analysis, statistical analysis of data, linear regression, graphing, aspects of simulation, digitization, interfacing and data acquisition. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 3 Hours)
PHYS 3581 — Medical Physics
This course considers fundamental concepts of ionizing radiation, diagnostic applications of medical physics, and therapeutic applications of medical physics. Diagnostic topics include x-rays, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, and nuclear medicine. Therapeutic topics include radiation generators, absorbed dose calculations, dose measurement, and brachytherapy. (Format: Integrated Lecture and Laboratory 3 Hours)
PHYS 3751 — Energy Production and the Environment
This course examines different aspects of energy harvesting, storage, and transmission with particular emphasis on the environmental impacts, sustainability, and development of renewable energy resources. It also introduces modern technologies based on the development of novel materials. Specific technologies and topics may include: wind power, photovoltaic generation, solar energy, nuclear fission, and fusion, hydroelectric, combustion based fuel generation, tidal energy and fuel cells. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 3 Hours)
Faculty Spotlight
Dr. David Hornidge
Professor, Physics
» Physics professor Dr. David Hornidge teaches interdisciplinary physics and music course
What can I do with an applied physics minor?
Through extensive lab experience, faculty-supervised research, and close mentorship, students develop practical skills and critical thinking abilities valued by employers and graduate programs.
Recognized by Maclean's as Canada's top undergraduate university, »»ÆÞ̽»¨'s strong academic reputation helps graduates stand out as they pursue diverse career paths.
Many go on to top graduate and professional programs in physics, while others go into careers in applied areas such as photonics, materials science, or biomedical engineering, or into careers in such fields as astronomy, space research, or oceanography.
Popular career paths in applied physics include:
- aeronautical/agricultural/metallurgical scientist
- research and development scientist
- automotive development specialist
- astrophysicist
- cancer therapy physicist
- computer programmer
- engineering mechanics specialist
- environmental health specialist
- medical device designer/inspector
- instrumentation developer
What is it like to study at »»ÆÞ̽»¨?
Applied Physics deals with numbers and also with problems encountered in daily life. It is an important and useful discipline and it is satisfying to apply what I learned in Applied Physics to my everyday life. I also love the small class sizes which gives me the opportunity to share new ideas and discuss them with my professors.
/current-students/department-physics
What are my admission requirements?
What other programs are related to applied physics?
Physics
Physics seeks to describe the nature of the physical world. It includes the study of everything from subatomic particles to the essence of the universe as a whole.
Mathematics
Mathematics is the foundation of most modern quantitative and qualitative studies. It has many faces, from practical uses of its statistical tools to theoretical studies of abstract relationships.