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University of Canterbury

Christchurch , Christchurch ,New Zealand

Postgraduate Certificate in Science - Mathematical Physics

The theories of physics are written in the language of mathematics. Ever since the days of Galileo and Newton, the concepts of physics have also inspired the development of new fields of mathematics. This is still the case today. As we push forward the frontiers of understanding fundamental ideas about the innermost workings of particles, the extremes of black holes, or the origin of the Universe, we are continually confronted by having to invent new mathematics.

An education in theoretical physics will give you a deep conceptual understanding of how things work, and how the universe fits together. It will also give you the skills to think from first principles, and to express that thinking analytically in mathematical models. Those skills are highly sought after not only in fundamental research but also in the worlds of industry, finance, education, and the public service.

Campus Information

Ilam Campus

The University has a main campus of 76 hectares (190 acres) at Ilam, a suburb of Christchurch about 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) from the centre of the city.

Intakes

  • Feb
  • July

Application Processing Time in Days: 20

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

A postgraduate qualification in a science subject will offer employers more advanced specialised knowledge and experience, leading to higher positions in industry.

Graduates will also be well placed to go onto research in their chosen scientific field.

PSW Opportunity

  • During study, all students on a student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during semester and full time during vacations.
  • After completing Level 7 Bachelor’s Degree or Higher Qualification, a student will get a three years open post-study work visa.
  • After completing Level 8 Post Graduate courses of 1 year, students get 1 year PSW.

Admission Requirement / Eligibility Criteria

Academic entry requirements

Students will need to have a Bachelor of Science, or equivalent, or otherwise qualified for entry to the postgraduate study in your chosen subject as specified in the Regulations for the Postgraduate Diploma in Science or the Regulations for the Bachelor of Science with Honours. You may be required to first complete a preparatory programme in this case.