Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Science majoring in Physics and Geophysics

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Start date
Start date
The month you will commence your studies. Exact start date is outlined in the course timetable.
February, July
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Campus
Campus
This program is taught across multiple campuses and students may be required to study at more than one campus in order to complete the degree.
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Duration
Duration
Duration is approximate and based on a full-time study load.
3 year(s) full-time
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Mode
Mode
Your study will be a mix of online and on-campus classes.
Hybrid
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Program code
BSCIE
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Study as
Full time or part time
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Indicative fees
Indicative fees
Commonwealth Supported students are charged a portion of the cost of their higher education through a student contribution. Fee-Paying programs require the full tuition fees of your study, which can be deferred partly or in full to a FEE-HELP loan. This is based on the total number of units studied for this program on an annual full-time basis.
Commonwealth Supported
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Prerequisite
Prerequisite
A prerequisite is a required course or/subject that you must have successfully completed before you can enrol into this program.
None
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Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge, while not essential, is where you have a minimum level of understanding in the relevant course area.
None
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Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate that they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission:

Recent secondary education (Year 12)

  • Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

  • Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

  • Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) of an undergraduate certificate (AQF level 5) or higher qualification at an Australian higher education institution.

Overseas qualifications considered by Adelaide University as equivalent to the above Australian qualifications may be accepted.

Work and life experience

  • Completion of an Adelaide University approved enabling, pathway or bridging program; OR
  • Achieved a pass result in the Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT); OR
  • Passed an Adelaide University online literacy and numeracy test AND have relevant work experience; OR
  • Qualify for special entry
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Note:

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025, to commence study in 2026.  

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.

Why Bachelor of Science?

Explore the fundamental laws of the universe and apply these principles to the study of Earth and its processes. Take courses from physics and geophysics to discover the physical properties and processes of our surrounding environment.  Understand natural phenomena through the exploration of matter, energy and force, gaining insights into the underlying principles that govern our world. 

Combine the studies of Physics and Geophysics in our Bachelor of Science, preparing you to work in related fields directly after graduating.  

You’ll learn how to harness the tools of physics to uncover what lies at the core of our Earth. Employ theories and techniques from geophysics to comprehend geological phenomena and address practical problems through hands-on laboratory and fieldwork. 

program overview

Overview

Geophysics relies on the principles of physics to understand our Earth’s interior, magnetic and gravitational fields. Your major will focus on the reasons why natural disasters occur, including earthquakes and erupting volcanoes. Learn how to apply mathematical models and experimental data to understand natural phenomena.  

Develop a deep understanding of the solid, liquid, and atmospheric elements present on Earth and other planets within our solar system. Use three-dimensional technology to map energy and mineral resources in laboratory settings. Collect data through fieldwork and use specialised computer labs to model and interpret our world on a global, exploration and environmental scale. 

Learn from world-class research academics in their field, inspiring you to pursue careers of interest. Benefit from industry collaboration, building partnerships with future employers. Bring together the laws of nature, from the smallest particles to the largest resources to predict our Earth’s future state.  

What you'll learn

In Adelaide University’s Bachelor of Science, you can explore a range of majors in your first year before deciding on a field of interest. Study a flexible course structure that is designed to build your analytical and computational skills. Graduate equipped with the knowledge and skillset to explore the unlimited opportunities of a career in physics and aligned disciplines.  

Your major in Physics and Geophysics will put your skills to practice through hands-on fieldwork, where you’ll collect data and map your findings. Cover topics in gravity, magnetics, earthquake seismology and seismic surveying, strengthening your knowledge in geophysical activities. Principles of physics and mathematics will underpin your exploration into earth science to better understand the Earth's past, present, and future.  

Build a solid foundation in physics, mathematics and geology, combining the laws of natural phenomena with Earth’s current state. Learn about the structure of the Earth and its processes occurring at a surface and deeper level. Discover the theoretical framework of quantum mechanics to understand the strange and counterintuitive behaviour of atoms and subatomic particles. Get down to a macro and microscopic level to explore the physical properties of solid and liquid matter. Determine the physical characteristics of the solid out part of our Earth, mapping and discovering the critical mineral and energy resources that lie beneath.  

In your third year, you’ll work alongside field experts to establish valuable industry connections. Engage in a professional project or placement that aligns with your major. You’ll also have opportunity to collect data in fieldwork activities and apply these findings in specialised laboratories. 

Participate in collaborative learning experiences on campus through tutorials, workshops, seminars, and lectures. Some courses may also offer online delivery, providing flexibility in your study approach. 

Our degree will prepare you to graduate with the theoretical and practical skills necessary to be an expert in your field.  

Majors

The Bachelor of Science is also available with majors in the following: 

  • Computational Physics 
  • Food Science and Technology 
  • Geophysics 
  • Nuclear and Radiation Physics 
  • Space Science and Astrophysics 
  • Theoretical Physics. 

What courses you'll study

You're required to complete 144 units to complete your degree, across a mix of core courses, elective and work integrated learning. A list of indicative courses is provided below.

Complete exactly 42 units from the following:

Course name Course code Units
course icon Science of People, Society and the Future Planet SCIE1001 6
course icon Scientific Data Handling and Visualisation INFO2011 6
course icon UG Common Core 1 AUXX1000 6
course icon UG Common Core 2 AUXX2000 6
course icon UG Common Core 3 AUXX3000 6
course icon Physics IA PHYS1001 6
course icon Physics IB PHYS1002 6
course icon Chemistry IA CHEM1001 6
course icon Chemistry IB CHEM1003 6
course icon Calculus 1 MATH1004 6
course icon Biology IA: Molecules, Genes and Cells BIOL1003 6
course icon Biology IB: Organisms BIOL1004 6
course icon Earth, Climate and Life Systems ECOL1001 6

Complete exactly 6 units from the following:

Course name Course code Units
course icon Science Professional Project SCIE3901 6
course icon Science Professional Placement SCIE3900 6

Complete 6 to 54 units from the following:

Course name Course code Units
course icon Foundations in Physics PHYS1000 6
course icon Foundations in Chemistry CHEM1000 6
course icon Foundations in Mathematics MATH1000 6
course icon Calculus 1 MATH1004 6
course icon Elective 1 AUXX1011 6
course icon Elective 2 AUXX1012 6
course icon Elective 3 AUXX1013 6
course icon Elective 4 AUXX1014 6
course icon Elective 5 AUXX1015 6
course icon Elective 6 AUXX1016 6
course icon Elective 7 AUXX1017 6
course icon Elective 8 AUXX1018 6

Complete exactly 84 units from the following:

Course name Course code Units
course icon Linear Algebra MATH1008 6
course icon Differential Equations MATH2004 6
course icon Quantum Mechanics II PHYS2001 6
course icon Multivariable Calculus MATH2003 6
course icon Electromagnetism II PHYS2002 6
course icon Electromagnetism and Thermodynamics III PHYS3002 6
course icon Quantum Mechanics and Solid State III PHYS3003 6
course icon Calculus 2 MATH1005 6
course icon Solid State and Photonics II PHYS2003 6
course icon Optics and Photonics III PHYS3004 6
course icon Planet Earth EART1000 6
course icon Geophysics II EART2003 6
course icon Geophysics IIIB: Electromagnetics and Seismology PHYS3010 6
course icon Geophysics IIIC: Seismic Processing and Interpretation EART3004 6

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How to apply

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025, to commence study in 2026.  

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.  

If you want to start your studies earlier, consider applying to the University of Adelaide or UniSA now, and continue onto Adelaide University in 2026. Register your interest to stay informed. 

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.


From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university. 

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus. 

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

  • Academic learning support, including after-hours support provided via Studiosity through live online chat assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
  • Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities. 
  • Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
  • Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
  • Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
  • On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner (GP) to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
  • Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, visa and work rights and academic policies and procedures.
  • An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
  • Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
  • Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
  • A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
  • A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission. 

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

  • February for Semester 1  
  • July for Semester 2. 

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view our Academic calendar. 

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

  • Career advice and mentoring services
  • Personal counselling
  • LGBTQIA+ support
  • Academic support
  • Fees and finance help
  • Security services
  • Accommodation services
  • Common rooms
  • Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week. 

 

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: 

  • Case studies  
  • Essays and assignments  
  • Examinations  
  • Group projects  
  • Internships and placements  
  • Practicals  
  • Presentations  
  • Reports and project documentations 
  • Research projects 
  • Workplace and classroom contributions. 
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