BSc in Physics

The physics program at Grenfell Campus will satisfy your curiosity about how the universe works. This four-year bachelor of science program explores everything from the smallest nucleus to the farthest galaxies. Students learn the fundamentals giving them a strong foundation to build on. You can choose your direction of study by selecting courses in subatomic and particle physics, astronomy and cosmology.

Why study physics at Grenfell?

People who study physics want to learn how the universe works. Their curiosity takes them from the realm of the very tiny - the structure of an atom's nucleus - to the very big - the structure of the universe - and everywhere in between! You can learn about astrophysics and cosmology through one of Atlantic Canada’s largest astronomical telescopes right here at the Grenfell Campus Observatory. Or you can explore the fundamentals of electricity and magnetism, quantum mechanics, geophysics, and particle physics. You can shape your program so you concentrate on what most intrigues you. Your physics degree can be completed in four years.

Example courses include:

• Modern Physics
• The Solar System
• Electromagnetic theory
• Thermodynamics
• Computational mechanics
• Elementary particles and fields
• Galaxies and cosmology
• Quantum mechanics
• Observational astrophysics

You’ll get the rare opportunity to conduct research in our state-of-the-art facilities. You’ll realize the learning potential of our telescope and observatory dome. Inside the observatory’s six-metre dome, the precision-made reflecting telescope has almost 10,000 times the light-gathering ability of the human eye. The faint light from distant objects such as galaxies can be collected, then focused through an eyepiece for your direct viewing or analysis. The telescope is used primarily for research and as a teaching resource.

Additional research opportunities await you in our new Senior Physics lab when you become a third-or fourth-year student studying such topics as electricity, magnetism, and modern physics. Faculty are engaged in top-line research and partner with facilities around the world.

It's affordable

You'll enjoy the lowest tuition rate in English-speaking Canada. The provincial government gives high priority to education, providing extensive funding to Memorial University. This commitment allows us to provide an affordable yet high-quality post-secondary education.

It's personal

Here, you’ll have accessible professors who care about your progress. You will have the advantage of small class sizes even in your first-year courses. Our low student-instructor ratio ensures that your learning will be personal and relevant. Our physics classes are small and there are lots of opportunities to engage one on one with your professors and lab instructors. With just 1,300 students on campus, you’ll make real connections with classmates, faculty and staff and become an important part of the Grenfell community.

Information for first-year students

As a Grenfell student, you can participate in the National Student Exchange (N.S.E.) Program, where you pay Grenfell tuition rates while studying in another N.S.E. member university in Canada or the United States.

Admission

You must meet the general admission requirements for Memorial University and declare physics as your major to be admitted to the program.

Career opportunities

Graduates of the physics program have a high employment rate and there are a number of different career opportunities, including:

• Research and development
• Teaching
• Laser and optics
• Space science
• Nuclear science
• Science journalism

Grenfell Campus, Memorial University is located in Eastern Canada in the city of Corner Brook on Newfoundland's west coast.

Grenfell 's unique location offers international students a vibrant, friendly and safe learning environment. At Grenfell , our class sizes are small, so it's easy to get to know your professors and classmates - you'll feel at home in no time. Memorial University also boasts the lowest international tuition rates in the country, while offering you an education that is respected around the world.

International students play an important role in student life at Grenfell . You'll become part of the campus community and add to the community's cultural diversity.

Why Grenfell? Because we're awesome, that's why.

We are affordable, have an amazing location, offer small classes in a safe environment, offer guaranteed student housing to first year students and have top-notch facilities.

Affordability

As a campus of Memorial University, you'll enjoy the lowest tuition rate in English-speaking Canada. The provincial government gives high priority to education, providing extensive funding to Memorial University. This commitment allows us to provide an affordable yet high-quality post-secondary education.

Small classes, safe environment

Sure lots of universities have small classes, but at Grenfell, you'll know your profs on a first-name basis. And Corner Brook is small too, so you'll feel safe and secure in one of the safest cities in North America. We offer quality undergraduate degrees in arts, business, education, fine arts, nursing, resource management and science. Masters degrees are offered in environmental policy and boreal ecosystems and agricultural sciences. Our small campus environment will help you thrive in your educational endeavours.Many of our students also get to conduct research with their professors – an opportunity that will give you unique hands-on experience.

Location, location, location

Grenfell is located in one of the most beautiful settings in the country: clean air, roaring ocean, majestic mountains. The west coast of Newfoundland is a hub of adventure in summer, winter, spring and fall. Hiking trails criss-cross the area. There are spots to ski, snowboard, rock climb and zipline. Marble Mountain Resort is 1,700 feet of top-notch skiing and snowboarding and Blow Me Down Trails Cross Country Ski Club has 42 km of groomed trails – both just minutes from campus. And a short car ride away is Gros Morne National Park, a world heritage site with marine inlets, rich forest and glacier-carved fjords. Get your outdoor groove on.

We’re also a thriving theatre community with several productions each year. Our art galleries are home to exhibits from around the world. Take a stroll downtown for shopping, nightlife and dining or visit our other shopping areas, including the retail big-box district. We're a small city with everything you need.