Physics and Astrophysics


Faculty List

  • P. Artymowicz, M.Sc. (Warsaw University), Ph.D. (N. Copernicus Astron. Center, Polish Academy of Sciences), Professor
  • J. Bayer Carpintero, B.Sc. (Los Andes, Bogota), M.Sc., Ph.D. (Toronto), Associate Professor, Teaching Stream
  • C.C. Dyer, B.Sc. (Bishop's), M.Sc., Ph.D. (Toronto), Professor Emeritus
  • W.A. Gough, B.Sc. (Waterloo), M.Sc. (Toronto), Ph.D. (McGill), Professor
  • A. Jacobs, B.A.Sc., B.Sc. (Waterloo), Ph.D. (Illinois), Professor Emeritus
  • J.D. King, B.A. (Toronto), Ph.D. (Saskatchewan), Professor Emeritus
  • G. Lorincz, B.Sc., M.Sc. (Toronto),  Professor Emeritus, Teaching Stream
  • J.P. Lowman, B.Sc. (Toronto), M.Sc., Ph.D. (York, Canada), Professor
  • K. Menou, B.Sc. (Angers), M.Sc. (Toulouse), Ph.D. (Paris XI), Associate Professor
  • J.M. Perz, B.A.Sc., M.A.Sc. (Toronto), Ph.D. (Cantab), Professor Emeritus
  • H. Rein, M.A.St. (Cambridge), Ph.D. (Cambridge), Associate Professor
  • S. Tawfiq, B.Sc., M.Sc. (Al-Mustansiriyah), Ph.D. (Trieste, Italy), Associate Professor, Teaching Stream
  • D. Valencia, B.Sc., M.Sc. (Toronto), Ph.D. (Harvard), Associate Professor
  • D. Weaver, B.Sc., B.Ed., M.Sc., Ph.D. (Toronto), Assistant Professor, Teaching Stream
  • M. Wells, B.Sc., Ph.D. (Australian National) Professor


For an updated list of Program Supervisors, please visit the Physics and Astrophysics website.

Physics is the study of the basic laws that govern how material objects move and influence each other. Astrophysics is the application of the principles of physics to the study of objects in the universe and their interactions and evolution, thus covering objects such as planets, stars, galaxies, black holes, and the universe as a whole. The laws of physics can accurately describe the effect of a star on the motion of a planet, or of the Earth on the motion of a satellite, the effect of a molecule on a nearby atom, or of an atomic nucleus on an electron. Although Newton's laws of motion adequately describe some of these situations, in most cases it is necessary to apply the more recently discovered refinements of these laws - quantum mechanics and Einstein's theories of special and general relativity, together with the understanding of electric and magnetic effects so beautifully synthesized in Maxwell's theory of electromagnetism. From these basic principles many of the properties of gases, liquids, solids, plasmas, nuclear matter, planets, stars, etc., can be related to the interactions among the individual units of which these forms of matter are composed. Physics allows us to describe the properties of light, sound and heat up to the point where these enter our senses, as well as x-ray, radio, cosmic and other radiations of which we are not directly aware. The remarkable properties of some materials under extreme conditions of temperature and pressure, and of other materials when an electric current passes through them, form the basis of a wide range of applications in the technology of our every-day lives, from microwave ovens to cellular telephones and GPS navigation. It is possible to develop, in mathematical language, theories that so accurately describe physical phenomena that they may be used to predict the results of many carefully controlled experiments. The study of physics and astrophysics, therefore, involves both mathematics and the techniques of experimentation.

At the University of Toronto Scarborough, students who are interested in Physics and Astrophysics can take the Specialist Program in Physics and Astrophysics, the Specialist Program in Physical & Mathematical Sciences, the Specialist Program in Environmental Physics, the Major Program in Physics and Astrophysics, or the Major Program in Physical Sciences.

Students interested, or enrolled in a Physics program should note the following:

  1. Given the current nature of research in the physical sciences, students interested in any of the programs listed below are advised to take an introductory course in programming in their first year of studies when it is not already a program requirement. Suitable options include CSCA08H3 for students with interest in subsequent programming courses or CSCA20H3 for students without interest in subsequent programming courses.
  2. MATB24H3 is a strongly recommended option for students in their second year of studies following any of the programs listed below. This course will enhance the mathematical preparation of students for topics in core areas of Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism, and Quantum Mechanics, as well as provide quantitative and analytical skills needed for advanced studies in most fields in physical sciences.
  3. PHYD01H3 and PHYD72H3 have a minimum CGPA requirement of 2.5. Students who do not meet the minimum requirement will not be given permission to take these courses and will not be able to complete programs that include these courses as a requirement.

Combined Degree Programs, Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Engineering

The Combined Degree Programs for UTSC Honours Bachelor of Science (HBSc) with the Master of Engineering (MEng) offered by the Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering allow exceptional students who are registered in the Specialist/Specialist Co-op programs in Environmental Physics to apply during Year 3 of their studies and be considered, for admission to the MEng programs in either Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry or Civil Engineering. These Combined Degree Programs allow students to complete 1.0 credits in courses that may be counted towards both degrees.

Combined Degree Programs options are:

  • Environmental Physics (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Civil Engineering, Master of Engineering
  • Environmental Physics (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Civil Engineering, Master of Engineering
  • Environmental Physics (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry, Master of Engineering
  • Environmental Physics (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry, Master of Engineering

For more information, including Admission and Program requirements, see the Combined Degree Programs section of the Calendar.

Combined Degree Programs, Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Environmental Science

The Combined Degree Programs for UTSC Honours Bachelor of Science (HBSc) with the Master of Environmental Science (MEnvSc) offered by the Graduate Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences allow exceptional students who are registered in one of the Specialist/Specialist Co-op programs identified below to apply during Year 3 of their studies and be considered, for admission to the MEnvSc program. They are designed for students interested in pursuing a career in environmental sciences within the green-sector, geosciences, industry, consulting, government and policy organizations. These Combined Degree Programs give students the opportunity to: (1) begin exploring their academic interests in Year 4 of their studies; (2) complete 1.0 credit in courses that may be counted towards both degrees; and (3) enrol in the MEnvSc in the Summer session between Years 4 and 5 in order to complete either a two-month academic or internship opportunity, in addition to the mandatory four-month academic or internship opportunity completed in the MEnvSc program alone.

Combined Degree Programs options are:

  • Environmental Physics (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Environmental Science
  • Environmental Physics (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Environmental Science

For more information, including Admission and Program requirements, see the Combined Degree Programs section of the Calendar.

Combined Degree Programs, Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching

The Combined Degree Programs for UTSC Honours Bachelor of Science (HBSc) /Honours Bachelor of Arts (HBA) with the Master of Teaching (MT) offered by the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education provides students with a direct pathway to the completion, in 6 years, of their Undergraduate degree, Ontario Teacher’s Certificate of Qualifications, and Master’s degree.​ These Combined Degree Programs allow students to complete 1.0 credits in courses that may be counted towards both degrees.

The Combined Degree Programs options are:

  • Environmental Physics (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Environmental Physics (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Physics and Astrophysics (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Physics and Astrophysics (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching

Program Combination Restrictions in Physics and Astrophysics

Programs in Environmental Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Geoscience, Environmental Physics, and Environmental Science cannot be combined.

Programs in Astronomy, Physical Sciences, and Physics and Astrophysics cannot be combined.

For more information, including Admission and Program requirements, see the Combined Degree Programs section of the Calendar.

Experiential Learning and Outreach

For a community-based experiential learning opportunity in your academic field of interest, consider the course CTLB03H3, which can be found in the Teaching and Learning section of the Calendar.

Physics and Astrophysics Programs

COMBINED DEGREE PROGRAMS, HONOURS BACHELOR OF SCIENCE / MASTER OF ENGINEERING

The Combined Degree Programs for UTSC Honours Bachelor of Science (HBSc) and Master of Engineering (MEng) allow exceptional students who are registered in one of the Specialist/Specialist Co-op programs identified below to apply during Year 3 of their studies, and be considered, for admission to the Faculty of Engineering & Applied Chemistry MEng programs in either Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry or Civil Engineering.

Contact Information:
Mandy Meriano(416-208-2775)
Email:  mmeriano@utsc.utoronto.ca

Combined Degree Programs options are:

  • Global Environmental Change (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry, Master of Engineering
  • Global Environmental Change (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry, Master of Engineering
  • Global Environmental Change (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Civil Engineering, Master of Engineering
  • Global Environmental Change (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Civil Engineering, Master of Engineering
  • Environmental Chemistry (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry, Master of Engineering
  • Environmental Chemistry (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry, Master of Engineering
  • Environmental Chemistry (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Civil Engineering, Master of Engineering
  • Environmental Chemistry (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Civil Engineering, Master of Engineering
  • Environmental Geoscience (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry, Master of Engineering
  • Environmental Geoscience (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry, Master of Engineering
  • Environmental Geoscience (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Civil Engineering, Master of Engineering
  • Environmental Geoscience (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Civil Engineering, Master of Engineering
  • Environmental Physics (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry, Master of Engineering
  • Environmental Physics (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry, Master of Engineering
  • Environmental Physics (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Civil Engineering, Master of Engineering
  • Environmental Physics (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Civil Engineering, Master of Engineering

Application Process:

  • UTSC students in Year 3 of one the identified HBSc programs who are interested in one of the identified CDPs must contact Professor M. Meriano before the end of the Fall session.
  • Qualified UTSC students will be able to apply to their selected CDP.
  • UTSC students who are accepted to the CDP will receive a conditional offer to start the Master of Engineering (MEng) program upon completion of their HBSc program requirements.

Minimum Admission Requirements:

  • Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the HBSc program, the School of Graduate Studies, and the MEng program.
  • Applicants to the HBSc program must:
    • be enrolled full-time and in good standing;
    • have a B+ average (CGPA of 3.3) or higher in Year 2;
    • carry a full course load of 5.0 credits each year (i.e., complete 5.0 credits over the three academic sessions - Fall, Winter, Summer).
  • Applicants to the MEng program must:
    • maintain a B+ average (CGPA of 3.3) or higher in Year 3 and Year 4 of their HBSc program;
    • complete the requirements of their HBSc program;
    • be conferred with the HBSc degree.

Program Requirements and Path to Completion: 

  • Year 1 to 4: HBSc degree requirements:
    • students must complete all HBSc program requirements and degree requirements;
    • students are expected to carry a full course load of 5.0 credits over the three academic sessions (Fall, Winter, Summer) of each year;
    • in Year 3, qualified students may apply to the CDP and may be offered conditional admission to the MEng program;
    • in Year 4, students who receive a conditional offer of admission to the CDP and MEng:
      • must complete two prescribed undergraduate engineering half courses (1.0 credit) as part of the HBSc degree requirements;
      • may complete up to 1.0 credit in graduate courses with the permission of either the Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry or Department of Civil Engineering (depending on the selected CDP); these courses can be counted towards the completion of both the HBSc degree requirements and the MEng program and degree requirements.
    • by the end of Year 4, fulfill both the undergraduate program requirements and the undergraduate degree requirements.
  • Year 5: Remaining MEng program and degree requirements:
    • conditions of admission are removed;
    • complete 5.0 credits in MEng courses; students who have completed up to 1.0 credit in MEng courses in Year 4 may subtract those courses from the total 5.0 credits required.

COMBINED DEGREE PROGRAMS, HONOURS BACHELOR OF SCIENCE / MASTER OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

The Combined Degree Programs for UTSC Honours Bachelor of Science (HBSc) with the Master of Environmental Science (MEnvSc) offered by the Graduate Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences allow exceptional students who are registered in one of the Specialist/Specialist Co-op programs identified below to apply during Year 3 of their studies, and be considered, for admission to the MEnvSc program. They are designed for students interested in pursuing a career in environmental sciences within the green-sector, geosciences, industry, consulting, government and policy organizations. These Combined Degree Programs give students the opportunity to: (1) begin exploring their academic interests in Year 4 of their studies; (2) complete 1.0 credit in courses that may be counted towards both degrees; and (3) enrol in the MEnvSc in the Summer session between Years 4 and 5 in order to complete either a two-month academic or internship opportunity, in addition to the mandatory four-month academic or internship opportunity completed in the MEnvSc program alone.

Contact Information:
Combined Degree Programs Coordinator
Email: cdp.utsc@utoronto.ca

The Combined Degree Programs options are:

Department of Biological Sciences

  • Conservation and Biodiversity (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Environmental Science
  • Integrative Biology (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Environmental Science

Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences

  • Global Environmental Change (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Environmental Science
  • Global Environmental Change (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Environmental Science
  • Environmental Chemistry (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Environmental Science
  • Environmental Chemistry (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Environmental Science
  • Environmental Geoscience (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Environmental Science
  • Environmental Geoscience (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Environmental Science
  • Environmental Physics (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Environmental Science
  • Environmental Physics (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Environmental Science

Application Process:

  • Applicants must apply to the Honours Bachelor of Science (HBSc) program, the MEnvSc program, and the CDP.
  • Qualified students in Year 3 of their HBSc degree program apply to the MEnvSc program and their chosen CPD through the SGS Online Admission Application system:
    • students will select one of the three fields of study within the MEnvSc program at the time of application:
      • Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation
      • Conservation and Biodiversity, or
      • Terrestrial and Aquatic Systems
    • those accepted will receive a conditional offer to start the MEnvSc program upon completion of their HBSc program and degree requirements.

Minimum Admission Requirements:

To be considered for conditional admission to the MEnvSc program and the selected CDP, applicants must meet the following admission requirements:

  • Be admitted to the HBSc degree and one of the above listed undergraduate programs at UTSC.
  • Meet the minimum admission requirements of the School of Graduate Studies and the MEnvSc program.
  • Be enrolled full-time and in good standing in the HBSc program:
    • have a B+ average (CGPA of 3.3) or higher in Year 2;
    • carry a full course load of 5.0 credits each year (i.e., complete 5.0 credits over the three academic sessions - Fall, Winter, Summer); where necessary, exceptions will be made for students in Co-op programs.
  • Complete the following undergraduate courses as part of the HBSc degree requirements:
    • Students in the Specialist in Conservation and Biodiversity or the Specialist in Integrative Biology:
      • BIOC63H3 Conservation Biology (0.5 credit)
      • BIOD54H3 Applied Conservation Biology (0.5 credit)
    • Students in the Specialist/Specialist Co-op programs in Global Environmental Change, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Geoscience, or Environmental Physics:
      • EESC24H3 Advanced Readings in Environmental Science (0.5 credit)
      • EESD10Y3 Research Project in Environmental Science (1.0 credit)

To be given full, unconditional admission to the MEnvSc program, applicants must meet the following admission requirements:

  • Maintain a B+ average (CGPA of 3.3) or higher in their final year of study in the HBSc program or over upper-level (C- and D-level) courses.
  • Achieve at least a grade of B- (70%) in both of the graduate courses taken in Year 4 of undergraduate study; these courses must be chosen in consultation with the Graduate Program Supervisor:
    • for the field in Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation: EES 1133H Climate Change Science and Modelling (0.5 credit), plus an additional 0.5 credit;
    • for the field in Conservation and Biodiversity: EES 3002H Conservation Policy (0.5 credit), plus an additional 0.5 credit;
    • for the field in Terrestrial and Aquatic Systems: 1.0 credit.
  • Be conferred with the HBSc degree.

Program Requirements and Path to Completion:

  • Year 4: HBSc degree requirements
    • students must complete all HBSc program requirements and degree requirements;
    • students are expected to carry a full course load of 5.0 credits over the three academic sessions (Fall, Winter, Summer) of each year; where necessary, exceptions will be made for students in Co-op programs;
    • students who receive a conditional offer of admission to the CDP must complete the following undergraduate courses:
      • students in the Specialist in Conservation and Biodiversity or the Specialist in Integrative Biology:
        • BIOC63H3 Conservation Biology (0.5 credit)
        • BIOD54H3 Applied Conservation Biology (0.5 credit)
      • students in the Specialist/Specialist Co-op programs in Global Environmental Change, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Geoscience, or Environmental Physics:
        • EESC24H3 Advanced Readings in Environmental Science (0.5 credit)
        • EESD10Y3 Research Project in Environmental Science (1.0 credit)
    • students must complete 1.0 credit in graduate courses, chosen in consultation with the Graduate Program Supervisor, as follows:
      • for the field in Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation: EES 1133H Climate Change Science and Modelling (0.5 credit), plus an additional 0.5 credit;
      • for the field in Conservation and Biodiversity: EES 3002H Conservation Policy (0.5 credit), plus an additional 0.5 credit;
      • for the field in Terrestrial and Aquatic Systems: 1.0 credit.
  • Optional registration in the Summer session prior to Year 5:
    • students complete one of the following opportunities:
      • EES 4001H Internship Training (0.5 credit)
      • EES 4003H Academic Training (0.5 credit)
  • Year 5: Remaining MEnvSc program and degree requirements.

COMBINED DEGREE PROGRAMS, HONOURS BACHELOR OF SCIENCE OR HONOURS BACHELOR OF ARTS / MASTER OF TEACHING

The Combined Degree Programs for UTSC Honours Bachelor of Science (HBSc)/ Honours Bachelor of Arts (HBA) with the Master of Teaching (MT) offered by the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education are designed for students who are interested in a career in Education. They allow exceptional students who are registered in one of the 50 identified Specialist and Major programs to gain early admission to the MT, which is a full-time professional program that leads to both a Master's degree and eligibility to become a certified teacher in Ontario. Students who successfully complete one of the Combined Degree Programs listed below will earn two University of Toronto degrees (HBA/ HBSc and MT), and be recommended to the Ontario College of Teachers for a Certificate of Qualifications as elementary or secondary school teachers.

Contact Information:
Combined Degree Programs Coordinator
Email: cdp.utsc@utoronto.ca

The Combined Degree Programs options are:

Department of Anthropology

  • Evolutionary Anthropology (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Evolutionary Anthropology (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Socio-Cultural Anthropology (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • Socio-Cultural Anthropology (Major), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching

Department of Arts, Culture and Media

  • Theatre and Performance Studies (Major), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching

Department of Biological Sciences

  • Biology (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Conservation and Biodiversity (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Conservation and Biodiversity (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Human Biology (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Human Biology (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Integrative Biology (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Molecular Biology, Immunology and Disease (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Plant Biology (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching

Department of Computer and Mathematical Sciences

  • Mathematics (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Mathematics (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Mathematics (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Mathematics (Major Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching

Department of English

  • English (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • English (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • English (Major), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • English (Major Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching

Department of Language Studies

  • French (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • French (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • French (Major), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • French (Major Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching

Department of Historical and Cultural Studies

  • History (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • History (Major), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching

Department of Human Geography

  • Human Geography (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • Human Geography (Major), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching

Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences

  • Medicinal and Biological Chemistry (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Medicinal and Biological Chemistry (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Biochemistry (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Biochemistry (Major Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Chemistry (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Chemistry (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Chemistry (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Chemistry (Major Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Global Environmental Change (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Global Environmental Change (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Environmental Chemistry (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Environmental Chemistry (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Environmental Physics (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Environmental Physics (Specialist Co-op), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Physics and Astrophysics (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Physics and Astrophysics (Major), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching
  • Physical and Mathematical Sciences (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Science/ Master of Teaching

Department of Sociology

  • Sociology (Specialist), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching
  • Sociology (Major), Honours Bachelor of Arts/ Master of Teaching

Students applying to the MT must have two teaching subjects regardless of the concentration they are applying to (Primary/Junior, Junior/Intermediate, or Intermediate/Senior), and must have completed at least 6.0 credits in their first teaching subject and at least 3.0 credits in their second teaching subject (note: both French as a Second Language and Science require at least 6.0 credits in university courses even when they are a second teaching subject). Each of the programs listed below includes a minimum of 6.0 credits in courses that can be applied towards the completion of the prerequisites for the identified OISE teaching subject(s).

UTSC Programs Fit With OISE MT Teaching Subjects:

UTSC ProgramMT Teaching Subjects - Required Number of Courses/Credits Completed
- Specialist/ Specialist Co-op in Medicinal and Biological ChemistryScience - Chemistry, or
Science - Biology, or
Science - General
- Specialist/Specialist Co-op in Molecular Biology and BiotechnologyScience - Biology, or
Science - General
- Major/Major Co-op In Biochemistry
- Major in Biology
- Specialist in Conservation and Biodiversity
- Major in Conservation and Biodiversity
- Specialist in Human Biology
- Major in Human Biology
- Specialist in Integrative Biology
- Major in Molecular Biology, Immunology and Disease
- Major in Plant Biology
- Specialist/Specialist Co-op in Global Environmental Change

Science - Biology

 

- Specialist/Specialist Co-op in Chemistry
- Major/Major Co-op in Chemistry
- Specialist/Specialist Co-op in Environmental Chemistry		Science - Chemistry
- Specialist/Specialist Co-op in Environmental Physics
- Specialist in Physics and Astrophysics
- Major in Physics and Astrophysics
- Specialist in Physical and Mathematical Sciences		Science - Physics
- Specialist/Specialist Co-op in Mathematics
- Major/Major Co-op in Mathematics		Mathematics
- Specialist in Evolutionary Anthropology
- Major in Evolutionary Anthropology
- Specialist in Socio-Cultural Anthropology
- Major in Socio-Cultural Anthropology
- Specialist in Sociology
- Major in Sociology		Social Science - General
- Major in Theatre and Performance StudiesDramatic Arts
- Specialist/Specialist Co-op in English
- Major/Major Co-op in English		English
- Specialist/Specialist Co-op in French
- Major/Major Co-op in French		French (Second Language)
- Specialist in History
- Major in History		History
- Specialist in Human Geography
- Major in Human Geography		Geography

Application Process:

  • Applicants must apply to the Honours Bachelor of Arts (HBA)/ Honours Bachelor of Science (HBSc) program, the MT program and the CDP.
  • Qualified students in Year 3 of their HBA/ HBSc degree program apply to the MT program; those accepted will receive a conditional offer to start the MT program upon completion of their HBA/ HBSc program and degree requirements.

Minimum Admission Requirements:

To be considered for conditional admission to the MT program and the selected CDP, applicants must meet the following admission requirements:

  • Be admitted to the HBA/ HBSc degree and at least one of the above-listed undergraduate programs at UTSC.
  • Meet the admission requirements of the School of Graduate Studies and the MT program.
  • Be enrolled full-time and in good standing in the HBA/ HBSc program(s):
    • have a B+ average or higher in Year 2;
    • carry a full course load of 5.0 credits each year (i.e., complete 5.0 credits over the three academic sessions - Fall, Winter, Summer); where necessary, exceptions will be made for students in Co-op programs.
  • Have completed at least half of the teaching subjects' prerequisite courses - i.e., 3.0 credits in the first teaching subject and at least 1.5 credits in the second teaching subject (or 3.0 credits if the second teaching subject is French as a Second Language or Science) - by the end of Year 3.
  • Provide at least two letters of reference (see: http://www.oise.utoronto.ca/mt/Home.html).
  • Provide a Statement of Intent indicating their preferred concentration (Primary/Junior, Junior Intermediate, or Intermediate/Senior) and describe three significant teaching and/or teaching-related experiences they have had, especially with groups of children; with reference to these experiences, applicants should identify insights gained about teaching and learning, and explain how, based on these insights, they might contribute to the education of students in today's schools. On their resumé, applicants must list, in chart form, the extent of their teaching experiences; the chart should include dates, location of the experience, applicants' role, and number of hours working with students.
  • Meet other qualifications as specified by the MT program, including: a police record check, relevant teaching experiences, academic and professional references, and satisfying teaching subject prerequisites.

To be given full, unconditional admission to the MT program, applicants must meet the following admission requirements:

  • Maintain a B+ average or higher in their final year of study in the HBA/ HBSc program, or over upper-level (C- and D-level) courses.
  • Achieve at least a B+ average in 1.0 credit in graduate courses taken in Year 4.
  • Regardless of the concentration to which they are applying (Primary/Junior, Junior/Intermediate, Intermediate/Senior), complete the prerequisites for both the first and second teaching subjects; students are encouraged to consult often with their HBA/HBSc Program Supervisor, as well as the Combined Degree Programs Coordinator.
  • Be conferred with the HBA/ HBSc degree.

Program Requirements and Path to Completion:

  • Year 1 to 4: HBA/ HBSc degree requirements:
    • students must complete all of the HBA/ HBSc program and degree requirements;
    • students are expected to carry a full course load of 5.0 credits over the three academic sessions (Fall, Winter, Summer) of each year;
    • in Year 3, qualified students may apply to the MT and the CDP and may be offered conditional admission to the MT;
    • by the end of Year 3 students must complete at least 3.0 credits required for the first teaching subject, and at least 1.5 credits for the second teaching subject (or 3.0 credits if the second teaching subject is French as a Second Language or Science);
    • in Year 4, students who receive a conditional offer of admission to the CDP must complete any two of the graduate elective half courses recommended by OISE for CDP students; these courses (1.0 credit) are counted towards the completion of both the HBA/ HBSc degree and the MT program and degree; CDP students are graded as graduate students in these courses and are required to meet graduate expectations;
    • by the end of Year 4, students must complete all HBA/ HBSc program requirements and degree requirements, including at least 6.0 credits required for the first teaching subject, and  at least 3.0 credits for the second teaching subject (or 6.0 credits if the second teaching subject is French as a Second Language or Science).
  • Year 5 and 6: Remaining MT program and degree requirements:
    • students must complete 11.0 credits as identified by OISE.

SPECIALIST PROGRAM IN ENVIRONMENTAL PHYSICS (SCIENCE) - SCSPE1076B

For a list of updated Program Supervisors, please visit the Physics and Astrophysics website.

Program Requirements
Total Requirements: 16.0 credits

First Year (4.0 credits):
CHMA10H3 Introductory Chemistry I: Structure and Bonding
CHMA11H3 Introductory Chemistry II: Reactions and Mechanisms
EESA06H3 Introduction to Planet Earth
MATA23H3 Linear Algebra I
MATA30H3 Calculus I for Physical Sciences
MATA36H3 Calculus II for Physical Sciences
PHYA10H3 Physics I for the Physical Sciences
PHYA21H3 Physics II for the Physical Sciences

Second Year (4.5 credits):
EESB15H3 Earth History
EESB19H3 Mineralogy
MATB41H3 Techniques of Calculus of Several Variables I
MATB42H3 Techniques of Calculus of Several Variables II
MATB44H3 Differential Equations I
PHYB10H3 Intermediate Physics Laboratory I
PHYB21H3 Electricity and Magnetism
PHYB54H3 Mechanics: From Oscillations to Chaos
and
0.5 credit from the following:
EESB02H3 Principles of Geomorphology
EESB03H3 Principles of Climatology
EESB04H3 Principles of Hydrology
EESB05H3 Principles of Soil Science
EESB22H3 Environmental Geophysics

Third Year (4.0 credits):
EESB20H3 Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
MATC46H3 Differential Equations II
PHYB57H3 Introduction to Scientific Computing
STAB22H3 Statistics I
and
1.5 credits from the following:
EESB26H3 Introduction to Global Geophysics
EESC22H3 Exploration Geophysics
EESC26H3 Seismology and Seismic Methods
PHYB52H3 Thermal Physics
PHYC11H3 Intermediate Physics Laboratory II
PHYC50H3 Electromagnetic Theory
PHYC54H3 Classical Mechanics
and
0.5 credit from the following:
CHMB55H3 Environmental Chemistry
EESC07H3 Groundwater
EESC18H3 Limnology
EESC19H3 Oceanography
EESC20H3 Geochemistry
EESC31H3 Glacial Geology

Fourth Year (3.5 credits):
EESC36H3 Petrology
EESC37H3 Structural Geology
EESD21H3 Geophysical and Climate Data Analysis
PHYD37H3 Introduction to Fluid Mechanics
and
1.5 credits from the following:
ASTC25H3 Astrophysics of Planetary Systems
EESC03H3 Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing
EESD02H3 Contaminant Hydrogeology
*EESD09H3 Research Project in Environmental Science
*EESD10Y3 Research Project in Environmental Science
EESD13H3 Environmental Law, Policy and Ethics
EESD33H3 Field Techniques
PHYC14H3 Introduction to Atmospheric Physics
PHYC50H3 Electromagnetic Theory
PHYC54H3 Classical Mechanics
*PHYD01H3 Research Project in Physics and Astrophysics]
*PHYD02Y3 Extended Research Project in Physics and Astrophysics
PHYD26H3 Planetary Geophysics
PHYD38H3 Nonlinear Systems and Chaos
*PHYD72H3 Supervised Reading in Physics and Astrophysics

*no more than 1.0 credit from EESD09H3, EESD10Y3, PHYD01H3, PHYD02Y3 and PHYD72H3 may be counted as fulfilling the program requirements.

Notes:
Where any course appears on more than one option list, it may only be counted as fulfilling the requirements for one of those lists of options.

Strongly recommended: EESC16H3 Field Camp I or EESD07H3 Field Camp II or EESD33H3 Field Techniques.

The optional courses EESB19H3 Mineralogy and EESC36H3 Petrology and EESC37 Structural Geology are strongly recommended for students focusing on training as a geophysicist.

SPECIALIST (CO-OPERATIVE) PROGRAM IN ENVIRONMENTAL PHYSICS (SCIENCE) - SCSPE1076C

Co-op Program Coordinator: coopsuccess.utsc@utoronto.ca

The Specialist (Co-op) Program in Environmental Physics is a Work Integrated Learning (WIL) program that combines academic studies with paid work terms in the public, private, and/or non-profit sectors. The program provides students with the opportunity to develop the academic and professional skills required to pursue employment in these areas, or to continue on to graduate training in an academic field related to Environmental Physics upon graduation.
In addition to their academic course requirements, students must successfully complete the additive Arts & Science Co-op Work Term and Course requirements.

Enrolment Requirements
The minimum qualifications for entry are 3.5 credits, including CHMA10H3, CHMA11H3, EESA06H3, MATA30H3, [MATA36H3 or MATA237H3], PHYA10H3 and PHYA21H3, plus a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5.

Current Co-op Students:
Students admitted to a Co-op Degree POSt in their first year of study must request a Co-op Subject POSt on ACORN upon completion of 4.0 credits and must meet the minimum qualifications for entry as noted above.

Prospective Co-op Students:
Prospective Co-op students (i.e., those not yet admitted to a Co-op Degree POSt) must submit a program request on ACORN, and meet the minimum qualifications noted above. Deadlines follow the Limited Enrolment Program Application Deadlines set by the Office of the Registrar each year. Failure to submit the program request on ACORN will result in that student's application not being considered.

Academic Program Requirements
Students must complete the program requirements as described in the Specialist Program in Environmental Physics.

Co-op Work Term Requirements
Students must satisfactorily complete Co-op work term(s) as follows: three 4-month work terms, one 4-month work term and one 8-month work term, or one 12-month work term. To be eligible for their first work term, students must be enrolled in the Specialist (Co-op) Program in Environmental Physics and have completed at least 7.0 credits, achieve a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher, and complete COPB50H3 and COPB51H3.

Students must be available for work terms in each of the Fall, Winter, and Summer semesters and must complete at least one of their required work terms in either a Fall or Winter semester. This requires that students take courses during at least one Summer semester.

Co-op Course Requirements
In addition to their academic program requirements, Co-op students complete the following Co-op specific courses as part of their degree:

  • Co-op Preparation courses: COPB50H3 and COPB51H3 (completed in first year)
  • Work Term Search courses: COPB52H3 (semester prior to first work term), COPC98H3 (semester prior to second work term), and COPC99H3 (semester prior to third work term)
  • Co-op Work Term courses: COPC05H3 (each semester a student is on work term)

These courses are designed to prepare students for their job search and work term experience, and to maximize the benefits of their Co-op work terms. They must be completed in sequence, and fall into three categories: Co-op Preparation courses (COPB50H3 & COPB51H3) are completed in first year, and cover a variety of topics intended to assist students in developing the skills and tools required to secure a work term; Work Term Search Courses (COPB52H3, COPC98H3, & COPC99H3) are completed in the semester prior to each work term, and support students while competing for work terms that are appropriate to their program of study, as well as preparing students for the transition into and how to succeed the workplace; Co-op Work Term courses (COPC05H3) are completed during each semester that a student is on work term, and support students’ success while on work term, as well as connecting their academics and the workplace experience.

Co-op courses are taken in addition to a full course load. They are recorded on transcripts as credit/no credit (CR/NCR) and are considered to be additive credit to the 20.0 required degree credits. No additional course fee is assessed as registration is included in the Co-op Program fee.

For information on fees, status in Co-op programs, and certification of completion of Co-op programs, see the Co-operative Programs section and the Arts and Science Co-op section in the UTSC Calendar.

SPECIALIST PROGRAM IN PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS (SCIENCE) - SCSPE1234A

For a list of updated Program Supervisors, please visit the Physics and Astrophysics website.

Program Requirements:
The Program requires 13.5 credits as follows:

First Year
PHYA10H3 Physics I for the Physical Sciences
PHYA21H3 Physics II for the Physical Sciences
[MATA30H3 Calculus I for Physical Sciences or MATA31H3 Calculus I for Mathematical Sciences]
[MATA22H3 Linear Algebra I for Mathematical Sciences or MATA23H3 Linear Algebra I]
[MATA36H3 Calculus II for Physical Sciences or MATA37H3 Calculus II for Mathematical Sciences]
*[CSCA08H3 Introduction to Computer Science or CSCA20H3 Introduction to Programming]

*The preferred and recommended course for this program is CSCA20H3. However, students planning to take upper-level Computer Science courses should take CSCA08H3 instead.

Second Year
ASTB23H3 Astrophysics of Stars, Galaxies and the Universe
PHYB10H3 Intermediate Physics Laboratory I
PHYB56H3 Introduction to Quantum Physics
PHYB21H3 Electricity and Magnetism
PHYB52H3 Thermal Physics
PHYB54H3 Mechanics: From Oscillations to Chaos
MATB41H3 Techniques of the Calculus of Several Variables I
MATB42H3 Techniques of the Calculus of Several Variables II
MATB44H3 Differential Equations I

Third Year
PHYC50H3 Electromagnetic Theory
PHYC56H3 Quantum Mechanics I
PHYC11H3 Intermediate Physics Laboratory II
PHYC54H3 Classical Mechanics
PHYB57H3 Introduction to Scientific Computing
MATC34H3 Complex Variables
MATC46H3 Differential Equations II

Fourth Year
1.5 credit from the following:
ASTC25H3 Astrophysics of Planetary Systems
PHYC14H3 Introduction to Atmospheric Physics
PHYD26H3 Planetary Geophysics
PHYD27H3 Physics of Climate Modeling
PHYD28H3 Introduction to Magnetohydrodynamics for Astrophysics and Geophysics
PHYD37H3 Introduction to Fluid Mechanics
PHYD38H3 Introduction to Nonlinear Systems and Chaos
PHYD57H3 Advanced Computational Methods in Physics
PHY452H1 Basic Statistical Mechanics
PHY456H1 Quantum Mechanics II
PHY483H1 Relativity Theory I
PHY484H1 Relativity Theory II
PHY487H1 Condensed Matter Physics
PHY489H1 Introduction to High Energy Physics
PHY491H1 Current Interpretations of Quantum Mechanics
PHY492H1 Advanced Atmospheric Physics
PSCD50H3 Advanced Topics in Quantum Mechanics
and
0.5 credit from the following:
PHYD01H3 Research Project in Physics and Astrophysics
**PHYD02Y3 Extended Research Project in Physics and Astrophysics
PHYD72H3 Supervised Reading in Physics and Astrophysics
and
[0.5 credit from a course in AST or PHY at the C-, D-, 300-, or 400-level] or [PSCD02H3 Current Questions in Mathematics and Science]

**A maximum of 0.5 credit from PHYD02Y3 will count against this requirement. The remaining 0.5 credit can be used to satisfy degree-level requirements.

MAJOR PROGRAM IN PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS (SCIENCE) - SCMAJ0272B

For a list of updated Program Supervisors, please visit the Physics and Astrophysics website.

Program Requirements
This program requires 8.5 credits as follows:

First Year
PHYA10H3 Physics I for the Physical Sciences
PHYA21H3 Physics II for the Physical Sciences
[MATA30H3 Calculus I for Physical Sciences or MATA31H3 Calculus I for Mathematical Sciences]
[MATA22H3 Linear Algebra I for Mathematical Sciences or MATA23H3 Linear Algebra I]
[MATA36H3 Calculus II for Physical Sciences or MATA37H3 Calculus II for Mathematical Sciences]

Second and Later Years
ASTB23H3 Astrophysics of Stars, Galaxies and the Universe
MATB41H3 Techniques of the Calculus of Several Variables I
MATB42H3 Techniques of the Calculus of Several Variables II
MATB44H3 Differential Equations I
PHYB10H3 Intermediate Physics Laboratory I
and
1.5 credits from the following:
PHYB56H3 Introduction to Quantum Physics
PHYB21H3 Electricity and Magnetism
PHYB52H3 Thermal Physics
PHYB54H3 Mechanics: From Oscillations to Chaos
and
2.0 credits from the following:
ASTC25H3 Astrophysics of Planetary Systems
MATC34H3 Complex Variables
MATC46H3 Differential Equations II
PHYC50H3 Electromagnetic Theory
PHYC56H3 Quantum Mechanics I
PHYC11H3 Intermediate Physics Laboratory II
PHYC14H3 Introduction to Atmospheric Physics
PHYC54H3 Classical Mechanics
PHYD26H3 Planetary Geophysics
PHYD37H3 Introduction to Fluid Mechanics
PHYD38H3 Nonlinear Systems and Chaos
PHYB57H3 Introduction to Scientific Computing
PSCD02H3 Current Questions in Mathematics and Science
PSCD50H3 Advanced Topics in Quantum Mechanics
[PHYD01H3 Research Project in Physics and Astrophysics or *PHYD02Y3 Extended Research Project in Physics and Astrophysics or PHYD72H3 Supervised Reading in Physics and Astrophysics]

*Note: A maximum of 0.5 credit from PHYD02Y3 will count for this requirement. The remaining 0.5 credit can be used to satisfy the overall degree-level requirements.

 

Physics and Astrophysics Courses

PHYA10H3 - Physics I for the Physical Sciences

The course is intended for students in physical, environmental and mathematical sciences. The course introduces the basic concepts used to describe the physical world with mechanics as the working example. This includes mechanical systems (kinematics and dynamics), energy, momentum, conservation laws, waves, and oscillatory motion.

Prerequisite: Physics 12U - SPH4U (Grade 12 Physics) and Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U) and Advanced Functions (MHF4U)
Corequisite: MATA30H3 or MATA31H3
Exclusion: PHYA11H3, PHY131H, PHY135Y, PHY151H, (PHY110Y), (PHY138Y)
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYA11H3 - Physics I for the Life Sciences

This first course in Physics at the university level is intended for students enrolled in the Life sciences. It covers fundamental concepts of classical physics and its applications to macroscopic systems. It deals with two main themes; which are Particle and Fluid Mechanics and Waves and Oscillations. The approach will be phenomenological with applications related to life and biological sciences.

Prerequisite: Grade 12 Advanced Functions (MHF4U) and Grade 12 Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U)
Corequisite: MATA29H3 or MATA30H3 or MATA31H3 or MATA32H3 or (MATA20H3)
Exclusion: PHYA10H3, PHY131H, PHY135Y, PHY151H, (PHY110Y), (PHY138Y)
Recommended Preparation: Grade 12 Physics (SPH4U)
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYA21H3 - Physics II for the Physical Sciences

This second physics course is intended for students in physical and mathematical sciences programs. Topics include electromagnetism and special relativity.

Prerequisite: PHYA10H3 and [MATA30H3 or MATA31H3]
Corequisite: [MATA36H3 or MATA37H3]
Exclusion: PHYA22H3, (PHY110Y1), PHY132H1, PHY135Y1, (PHY138Y1), PHY152H1
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYA22H3 - Physics II for the Life Sciences

The course covers the main concepts of Electricity and Magnetism, Optics, and Atomic and Nuclear Physics. It provides basic knowledge of these topics with particular emphasis on its applications in the life sciences. It also covers some of the applications of modern physics such as atomic physics and nuclear radiation.

Prerequisite: [PHYA10H3 or PHYA11H3 or (PHYA01H3)] and [MATA29H3 or MATA30H3 or MATA31H3 or MATA32H3]
Corequisite: MATA35H3 or MATA36H3 or MATA37H3 or MATA33H3 or (MATA21H3).
Exclusion: PHYA21H3, (PHY110Y), PHY132H, PHY135Y, (PHY138Y), PHY152H
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences
Note: Students interested in completing programs in science are cautioned that (MATA21H3) and MATA35H3 do not fulfill the program completion requirements of most science programs.

PHYB01H3 - Modern Physics for Non-Scientists

A conceptual overview of some of the most interesting advances in physics and the intellectual background in which they occurred. The interrelationship of the actual practice of physics and its cultural and intellectual context is emphasized. (Space time; Symmetries; Quantum Worlds; Chaos.)

Prerequisite: 4.0 credits
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYB10H3 - Intermediate Physics Laboratory I

Experimental and theoretical study of AC and DC circuits with applications to measurements using transducers and electronic instrumentation. Practical examples are used to illustrate several physical systems.

Prerequisite: PHYA21H3 and [MATA36H3 or MATA37H3]
Corequisite: MATB41H3
Exclusion: (PHYB23H3)
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYB21H3 - Electricity and Magnetism

A first course at the intermediate level in electricity and magnetism. The course provides an in-depth study of electrostatics and magnetostatics. Topics examined include Coulomb's Law, Gauss's Law, electrostatic energy, conductors, Ampere's Law, magnetostatic energy, Lorentz Force, Faraday's Law and Maxwell's equations.

Prerequisite: PHYA21H3 and MATB41H3
Corequisite: MATB42H3
Exclusion: PHY241H, PHY251H
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYB52H3 - Thermal Physics

The quantum statistical basis of macroscopic systems; definition of entropy in terms of the number of accessible states of a many particle system leading to simple expressions for absolute temperature, the canonical distribution, and the laws of thermodynamics. Specific effects of quantum statistics at high densities and low temperatures.

Prerequisite: PHYA21H3 and MATB41H3
Corequisite: MATB42H3
Exclusion: PHY252H1
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYB54H3 - Mechanics: From Oscillations to Chaos

The linear, nonlinear and chaotic behaviour of classical mechanical systems such as oscillators, rotating bodies, and central field systems. The course will develop analytical and numerical tools to solve such systems and determine their basic properties. The course will include mathematical analysis, numerical exercises (Python), and demonstrations of mechanical systems.

Prerequisite: PHYA21H3 and MATB41H3 and MATB44H3
Corequisite: MATB42H3
Exclusion: PHY254H, (PHYB20H3)
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYB56H3 - Introduction to Quantum Physics

The course introduces the basic concepts of Quantum Physics and Quantum Mechanics starting with the experimental basis and the properties of the wave function. Schrödinger's equation will be introduced with some applications in one dimension. Topics include Stern-Gerlach effect; harmonic oscillator; uncertainty principle; interference packets; scattering and tunnelling in one-dimension.

Prerequisite: PHYA21H3 and [MATA36H3 or MATA37H3]
Corequisite: MATB41H3
Exclusion: PHY256H1, (PHYB25H3)
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYB57H3 - Introduction to Scientific Computing

Scientific computing is a rapidly growing field because computers can solve previously intractable problems and simulate natural processes governed by equations that do not have analytic solutions. During the first part of this course, students will learn numerical algorithms for various standard tasks such as root finding, integration, data fitting, interpolation and visualization. In the second part, students will learn how to model physical systems. At the end of the course, students will be expected to write small programs by themselves. Assignments will regularly include programming exercises.

Prerequisite: [MATA36H3 or MATA37H3] and [MATA22H3 or MATA23H3] and PHYA21H3
Corequisite: MATB44H3
Exclusion: (PSCB57H3)
Breadth Requirements: Quantitative Reasoning

PHYC11H3 - Intermediate Physics Laboratory II

The main objective of this course is to help students develop skills in experimental physics by introducing them to a range of important measuring techniques and associated physical phenomena. Students will carry on several experiments in Physics and Astrophysics including electricity and magnetism, optics, solid state physics, atomic and nuclear physics.

Prerequisite: PHYB10H3 and PHYB21H3 and PHYB52H3
Exclusion: (PHYB11H3)
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYC14H3 - Introduction to Atmospheric Physics

This course provides an introduction to atmospheric physics. Topics include atmospheric structure, atmospheric thermodynamics, convection, general circulation of the atmosphere, radiation transfer within atmospheres and global energy balance. Connections will be made to topics such as climate change and air pollution.

Prerequisite: PHYB21H3 and PHYB52H3 and MATB42H3 and MATB44H3
Exclusion: PHY392H1, PHY315H1, PHY351H5
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYC50H3 - Electromagnetic Theory

Solving Poisson and Laplace equations via method of images and separation of variables, Multipole expansion for electrostatics, atomic dipoles and polarizability, polarization in dielectrics, Ampere and Biot-Savart laws, Multipole expansion in magnetostatics, magnetic
dipoles, magnetization in matter, Maxwell’s equations in matter.

Prerequisite: PHYB54H3 and PHYB21H3 and [MATA22H3 or MATA23H3] and MATB42H3 and MATB44H3
Exclusion: PHY350H1
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYC54H3 - Classical Mechanics

A course that will concentrate in the study of symmetry and conservation laws, stability and instability, generalized co-ordinates, Hamilton’s principle, Hamilton’s equations, phase space, Liouville’s theorem, canonical transformations, Poisson brackets, Noether’s theorem.

Prerequisite: PHYB54H3 and MATB44H3
Exclusion: PHY354H
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYC56H3 - Quantum Mechanics I

The course builds on the basic concepts of quantum theory students learned in PHYB56H3. Topics include the general structure of wave mechanics; eigenfunctions and eigenvalues; operators; orbital angular momentum; spherical harmonics; central potential; separation of variables; hydrogen atom; Dirac notation; operator methods; harmonic oscillator and spin.

Prerequisite: PHYB56H3 and PHYB21H3 and [MATA22H3 or MATA23H3] and MATB42H3 and MATB44H3
Exclusion: PHY356H1
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYC83H3 - Introduction to General Relativity

An introduction to the basic principles and mathematics of General Relativity. Tensors will be presented after a review of Special Relativity. The metric, spacetime, curvature, and Einstein's field equations will be studied and applied to the Schwarzschild solution. Further topics include the Newtonian limit, classical tests, and black holes.

Prerequisite: MATB42H3 and MATB44H3 and PHYB54H3
Corequisite: MATC46H3
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYD01H3 - Research Project in Physics and Astrophysics

Introduces students to current research in physics or astrophysics under the supervision of a professorial faculty member. Students undertake an independent project that can be of a theoretical, computational or experimental nature. Evaluation is by the supervising faculty member in consultation with the course supervisor. Students must obtain consent of the course supervisor to enroll in this course.

Prerequisite: 14.0 credits and cGPA of at least 2.5 and permission from the coordinator.
Exclusion: PHY478H, PHY479Y1
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences
Course Experience: University-Based Experience

PHYD02Y3 - Extended Research Project in Physics and Astrophysics

Introduces students to a current research topic in physics or astrophysics under the supervision of a faculty member. Students undertake an independent project that can be of a theoretical, computational, or experimental nature. Evaluation is by the supervising faculty member in consultation with the course supervisor. Students must obtain consent from the course supervisor to enroll in this course.

Prerequisite: 14.0 credits and cGPA of at least 3.0 and permission from the coordinator.
Exclusion: PHY478H, PHY479Y1, PHYD01H3
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences
Course Experience: University-Based Experience
Note: Note: This supervised research course should only be undertaken if the necessary background is satisfied, a willing supervisor has been found, and the department/course coordinator approves the project. This enrolment limit should align with other supervised research courses (i.e., PHYD01H3), which are: Enrolment Control A: Supervised Study/Research & Independent Study Courses In order to qualify for a Supervised Study course, students must locate a professor who will agree to supervise the course, and then follow the steps outlined below. Step 1: Request the course on ACORN. Your status will be INT. You will not be officially enrolled until you complete the remaining steps. Step 2: Fill the 'Student' section on a 'Supervised Study Form' available at: https://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/registrar/supervised-study-form. Step 3: Once you fill-in the 'Student' section, contact your Supervisor and provide them with the form. Your supervisor will complete their section and forward the form for departmental approval. Step 4: Once the project is approved at the departmental level, the form will be submitted to the Registrar's Office and your status on ACORN will be updated from interim (INT) to approved (APP).

PHYD26H3 - Planetary Geophysics

A course introducing some of the key physical processing governing the evolution of planets and moons. Topics covered will include: planetary heat sources and thermal evolution, effects of high temperature and pressure in planetary interiors, planetary structure and global shape; gravity, rotation, composition and elasticity.

Prerequisite: Completion of at least 1.0 credit at the C-level in PHY or AST courses
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences
Note: No previous knowledge of Earth Sciences or Astrophysics is assumed.

PHYD27H3 - Physics of Climate Modeling

A course focusing on physical and numerical methods for modelling the climate systems of Earth and other planets. Topics covered will include: the primitive equations of meteorology, radiative transfer in atmospheres, processes involved in atmosphere-surface exchanges, and atmospheric chemistry (condensable species, atmospheric opacities).

Prerequisite: PHYB57H3 and MATC46H3 and PHYC14H3
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYD28H3 - Introduction to Magnetohydrodynamics for Astrophysics and Geophysics

A course introducing the basic concepts of magnetohydrodynamics (broadly defined as the hydrodynamics of magnetized fluids). Topics covered will include: the essentials of hydrodynamics, the magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) approximation, ideal and non-ideal MHD regimes, MHD waves and shocks, astrophysical and geophysical applications of MHD.

Prerequisite: PHYB57H3 and PHYC50H3 and MATC46H3
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYD37H3 - Introduction to Fluid Mechanics

A course describing and analyzing the dynamics of fluids.  Topics include: Continuum mechanics; conservation of mass, momentum and energy; constituitive equations; tensor calculus; dimensional analysis; Navier-Stokes fluid equations; Reynolds number; Inviscid and viscous flows; heat conduction and fluid convection; Bernoulli's equation; basic concepts on boundary layers, waves, turbulence.

Prerequisite: PHYB54H3 and MATC46H3
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYD38H3 - Nonlinear Systems and Chaos

The theory of nonlinear dynamical systems with applications to many areas of physics and astronomy. Topics include stability, bifurcations, chaos, universality, maps, strange attractors and fractals. Geometric, analytical and computational methods will be developed.

Prerequisite: PHYC54H3
Exclusion: PHY460H
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences

PHYD57H3 - Advanced Computational Methods in Physics

Intermediate and advanced topics in numerical analysis with applications to physical sciences. Ordinary and partial differential equations with applications to potential theory, particle and fluid dynamics, multidimensional optimization and machine intelligence, are explained. The course includes programming in Python, and C or Fortran, allowing multi-threading and vectorization on multiple platforms.

Prerequisite: PHYB57H3
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences
Note: Priority will be given to students enrolled in the Specialist in Physical and Mathematical Sciences and the Major in Physical Sciences.

PHYD72H3 - Supervised Reading in Physics and Astrophysics

An individual study program chosen by the student with the advice of, and under the direction of a faculty member. A student may take advantage of this course either to specialize further in a field of interest or to explore interdisciplinary fields not available in the regular syllabus.

Prerequisite: 14.0 credits and cGPA of at least 2.5 and permission from the coordinator.
Exclusion: PHY371H and PHY372H and PHY471H and PHY472H
Breadth Requirements: Natural Sciences
Course Experience: University-Based Experience

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