From the large-scale processes that form galaxies to the complex phenomena we encounter at a quantum scale, Physics is the science of the most fundamental forces that shape our Universe, govern our lives and underlie our technological achievements. An Undergraduate degree in Physics gives students a rigorous and hands-on instruction in the principles of this science.

The major in Physics introduces students to the principles of Physics in the fundamental areas of classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and mathematical physics, and in certain specialised branches of Physics such as atomic physics, solid state physics, etc. The student will learn about the scientific method of understanding physical phenomena through both lecture-based courses and laboratory courses. Computational methods of studying physical phenomena will be an integral part of the programme. The Undergraduate Thesis and Capstone Project, and any research projects, will introduce students to research methods in Physics and require them to carry out research in an area of their interest. Through laboratory and theory courses and combined with the University’s interdisciplinary course of study outside the major, the major in Physics hopes to create the well-rounded scientists of tomorrow.

The major in Physics aims to inculcate in students the spirit of inquiry and scientific reasoning through lecture-based and laboratory courses which also include problem-solving exercises. To enable this, the following broad objectives of the major are envisioned:

• Introduce students to the principles of Physics in the fundamental areas of Physics 
• Impart a broad understanding of the physical principles, and help students develop critical thinking and quantitative reasoning skills
• Through lecture-based courses, enable students to consider a problem involving physical phenomena, to identify physical variables and the laws of physics that are relevant to the problem, and to apply them to solve the problem
• Through laboratory courses, train students in designing experiments to answer a physics query, building the necessary equipment (in some laboratory courses), recognising the sensitivity of the equipment they are using, taking data as accurately as possible, and recognising errors in measurement
• Introduce students to research methods in physics through the Undergraduate Thesis or Capstone Project, or any research projects
• Enhance students’ writing skills through scientific writing, and help them clarify their own understanding of the topic, and introduce students to the notion that a scientist's role includes sharing scientific discoveries and advancements with the public
• Provide an excellent training in physics for those keen on pursuing higher degrees in the discipline and counsel those who wish to choose alternative career paths

On completing this major, the student will be able to:

• given a physical phenomenon, identify what may be determined in terms of physical variables and the laws of Physics that are relevant to the phenomenon
• apply these laws to explain the phenomenon
• design basic experiments to answer a Physics query
• recognise the sensitivity of the equipment they are using
• take data as accurately as possible
• analyse errors in measurements
• write about scientific topics in a manner understandable to a layperson
• apply methods of reasoning to look at problems outside of Physics

The major in Physics will provide an excellent training in Physics for those keen on pursuing higher degrees in Physics. Those students who may not wish to pursue higher education will be counselled about alternative career paths, such as in finance, science writing, software programming or analytics, and the courses required to pursue such paths.

Eligibility: The Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Physics is open to anyone who has completed class 12 or equivalent with Physics and Mathematics as subjects. Students are expected to have a strong preparation in Mathematics for the programme.

To learn more about the Physics programme at Ahmedabad University you may send an email to [email protected].