Physics and Astronomy

Physics and Astronomy

Course Advice

Planning a Degree in Physics or Astronomy?

Supervisors of Studies

The following academic staff members have been assigned to oversee the level or programme shown below and should be the first person you contact about courses at your level.

100 level

Dr Adrian McDonald, room 818, phone 364 2281
email: adrian.mcdonald@canterbury.ac.nz

200 level

Dr Michael Albrow, room 810, phone 364 2987 Ext. 4863
email: michael.albrow@canterbury.ac.nz

300 level

Prof David Wiltshire, room 714, phone 364 2473
email david.wiltshire@canterbury.ac.nz

400 level

Dr Chris Gordon, Room 720, Ext. 7513, chris.gordon@canterbury.ac.nz

Astronomy

Dr Michael Albrow, room 810, phone 364 2987 Ext. 4863
email: michael.albrow@canterbury.ac.nz

Medical Physics

Please direct all enquiries to
Assoc. Prof Mike Reid, room 606, phone 364 2548
email: mike.reid@canterbury.ac.nz


Our Department offers three year Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees with majors in Physics and Astronomy. Please refer to the courses listed by level (100, 200, 300). You are encouraged to discuss your choice of courses with the appropriate level supervisor.

Students with outstanding secondary school Physics and Calculus results may be able to gain direct entry into 200-level courses. Students interested in this option should contact the 200-level supervisor of studies. See also Direct Entry.

At fourth year (400 level) we offer several options.

  • A Bachelor of Science with Honours, BSc(Hons) in Physics, Astronomy, Mathematical Physics, or Medical Physics.
  • A Postgraduate Diploma (PGDipSc)of Science in Physics or Astronomy
  • A Master of Science (MSc) in Physics, Astronomy, or Medical Physics

Entry to the PGDipSc or MSc programmes requires a BSc in Physics. Entry to the BSc(Hons) programme requires additional courses, including 300-level Mathematics as well as Physics. Students aiming to progress to a Masters or Honours degree should seek advice about choices of papers at the 200 or 300 level from the appropriate Level Supervisors. Those interested in the Mathematical Physics option should seek assistance from the Mathematical Physics Supervisor of Studies, Prof David L Wiltshire.