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University of Lethbridge

Lethbridge , Alberta ,Canada

Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Education in Physics

Physics is the study of matter and energy at all scales, from the sub-nuclear to the dimensions of the universe. It is the fundamental science — all other sciences and technologies rely on the principles of physics.

Physics involves observing and understanding natural phenomena. It is evident in the world around us in everything from the seasons, the motion of objects, the flight of birds, the night sky and the weather, to lasers, electronics and the technology we rely on today.

Physics is very much a “hands-on” science, so the most effective way for you to learn the subject is to actually do physics. Astronomy teaches you how to study objects at a distance and interpret the information gathered. This helps us begin to understand the universe we live in. The skills you will learn in astronomy are also applicable to remote sensing and its application to environmental problems.

The department offers a comprehensive physics major. The foundation of this program is built in the first two years, as you study mechanics, waves, electricity and magnetism, optics, thermal physics and modern physics.

In your third and fourth years, you will gain a deeper understanding of the fundamentals and delve into more advanced and specialized areas. Specialized topics may include the research interests of department faculty members, as all faculty members are involved in rigorous research programs.

Faculty members also ensure you are provided with a wide view of physics, exposing you to all areas of the subject and describing a wide variety of applications. This enables you to make informed decisions when choosing the areas you may wish to pursue in the future.

Physics club | Through the Physics Club, you can volunteer to take part in community outreach activities and physics demonstrations in local schools. Not only do these popular events kindle the interest of younger students, they also provide you with a valuable educational experience.

Concentrations (Optional) | Students in the BSc and BASc in physics degree programs may declare a concentration in theoretical physics.

Minors | Adding a minor to your degree is a great way to explore academic interests beyond your major. A minor is a set of courses comprising a secondary focus of interest. It is generally not related to your major. A minor may be required or optional. Pursue a second passion by adding a minor to your degree.

Honours thesis | If your GPA is high enough entering your final year, you can opt to complete an undergraduate thesis course. This is an excellent opportunity for you to earn an “Honours Thesis” designation on your degree; as well as obtain extensive research experience.

Experience learning | Our students have a number of experiential learning opportunities available to them including co-operative education, international exchanges, independent and applied studies as well as volunteer opportunities. uLethbridge is the only university in Alberta to offer co-operative education to all majors in the arts & sciences, at both the undergrad and grad level.

Skills acquired | In addition to developing exceptional communication skills, you will develop critical and analytical problem solving skills, research and information management skills, and improve your attention to detail. You will leave the program with a strong ability to summarize research findings, excellent fieldwork and risk assessment techniques, as well as an in-depth knowledge of environmental issues.

Campus Information

Lethbridge

Located on the west side of the city of Lethbridge, the University stretches across the coulees and has a great view of the Oldman River valley. It combines a beautiful setting with green space, gardens, and trees with high-tech facilities and classroom and research space. Spanning more than 500 acres, our campus is designed to ignite new ideas and encourage collaboration across disciplines.

Intakes

  • Jan
  • Sep

Application Processing Time in Days: 30

Minimum English Language Requirements

English Level Description IELTS (1.0 -9.0) TOEFL IBT (0-120) TOEFL CBT (0-300) PTE (10-90)
Expert 9 120 297-300 86-90
Very Good 8.5 115-119 280-293 83-86
Very Good 8 110-114 270-280 79-83
Good 7.5 102-109 253-267 73-79
Good 7 94-101 240-253 65-73
Competent 6.5 79-93 213-233 58-65
Competent 6 60-78 170-210 50-58
Modest 5.5 46-59 133-210 43-50
Modest 5 35-45 107-133 36-43
Limited 4 32-34 97-103 30-36
Extremely Limited < 4 < 31 < 93 < 30

Job Opportunity Potential

Possible careers
Major Branches of Physics. For those who will ultimately pursue a physics career, the major branches of physics include:

Acoustics
Archaeometry
Astrophysics
Atomic and Molecular Physics
Biophysics
Chemistry
Condensed Matter Physics
Cosmology
Geophysics
High-energy Physics
Medical Physics
Nanoscience
Nuclear and Particle Physics
Soft Matter Physics
Here are just a few of the options that may be open to you once you’ve earned your degree or with further training:

Condensed Matter Physicist
Medical/Health Physicist
Biophysicist
Research or Computer Scientist
Atomic & Molecular Physicist
Nuclear & Particle Physicist
Consultant
Nanoscientist
Astrophysicist
Geophysicist
Teacher
Meteorologist
Archaeometrist
Applied Physicist
Environmental Physicist
Neurophysicist
Professional disciplines & graduate studies | Your undergraduate degree in physics provides an excellent foundation for education (high school and university), engineering, medicine and dentistry. Graduates from this discipline have also gone on to work in law, journalism and management. The University of Lethbridge’s School of Graduate Studies offers programs at the master's and doctoral levels spanning over 60 disciplines — so why not consider pursuing grad school right here in Lethbridge! Whether you choose to do your advanced studies at uLethbridge or another institution, know that your undergraduate degree has set you on the path to post-graduate success.

PSW Opportunity

Eligibility for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):
Graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.
Desire to stay in Canada temporarily for work.

Important Note:
Graduating from a DLI doesn't automatically qualify you for a PGWP.

Validity of PGWP:
Depends on the length of the study program or the expiry date of your passport, whichever comes first.

Duration of PGWP Based on Study Program Length:
Less than 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials): Not eligible for PGWP.
At least 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials), but less than 2 years: PGWP may be granted for the same length as the study program (e.g., a 9-month program results in a 9-month PGWP).
2 years or more: PGWP may be valid for 3 years.

Completion of Multiple Programs:
PGWP may combine the lengths of each program if:
Each program is PGWP eligible.
Each program is at least 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials) in length.

Important Restriction:
You cannot obtain a PGWP if you already had one after completing an earlier program of study

Admission Requirement / Eligibility Criteria

Academic Standard XII certificate (e.g. Higher Secondary School Certificate, All-India Senior School Certificate, Indian School Certificate) with Second Division standing. Vocational Standard XII certificates will be considered on a case-by-case basis

The ELP requirement must be met prior to registration in a graduate program. The University reserves the right to use discretion in determining adequate levels of language proficiency to ensure success in academic programs. In all cases, the decision of the School of Graduate Studies shall be final.

Required Documentation
All proof of English proficiency must be provided on official academic transcripts or standardized test score reports. Standardized test scores must be valid and verifiable.

High School

Alberta English Language Arts 30-1, or equivalent, with a minimum final (blended) grade of 75 percent.

A grade of 5 or higher in IB Higher or Standard Level English.

A grade of 4 or higher in AP English.

A grade of B or higher in GCE A/S-level or A-level English.

Successful completion of a minimum of three consecutive years of full-time academic study in English at a secondary school in Canada or another country where English is recognized as the primary language (see Recognized Countries, below). English as a Second Language of study is not considered academic.

Post Secondary

Successful completion of a minimum two years of full-time academic study in English at a post-secondary institution in Canada or another country where English is recognized as the primary language (see Recognized Countries, below). English as a Second Language of study is not considered academic.

Successful completion of an academic diploma, applied degree, or baccalaureate degree, requiring at least two years of full-time study, at a recognized post-secondary institution in Canada where the language of instruction is English.
English for Academic Purposes
(Must have been completed within two years prior to the date of application).

Successful completion of the Advanced Level of the University of Lethbridge English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program.

A passing grade in an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program accepted as a means of satisfying ELP by another recognized Canadian university, and whose ELP requirement is at least as demanding as that of the University of Lethbridge.

A passing grade in an EAP program approved by the Manager of Admissions.
ELP Assessments
(Must have been completed within two years prior to the date of application).

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL (iBT) or TOEFL iBT Home Edition) with a minimum total score of 80, with minimum scores of 16 in each of Listening, Reading, and Speaking, and a minimum score of 18 in Writing.
Academic International English Languages Testing System (IELTS or IELTS Online) test with a minimum overall score of 6.0, and a minimum 6.0 in each band. IELTS One Skill Retake results are accepted.

Cambridge English Qualifications: C1 Advanced (C1 Advanced), with a minimum score of 169, and a minimum 169 in each subscore.

Cambridge English Qualifications: C2 Proficiency (C2 Proficiency), with a minimum score of 169, and a minimum 169 in each subscore.

Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic score with a minimum overall score of 54.

Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL or CAEL Online) assessment with a minimum overall score of 60, a minimum of 50 in each of Listening, Reading, and Speaking, and a minimum of 60 in Writing.

Duolingo with a minimum score of 105.