Everything we know is either matter or energy. Understanding the ways in which matter and energy behave and interact is critical to an understanding of the universe at every level, from the submicroscopic constituents of matter to the macroscopic behaviour of galaxies and star clusters. This understanding comes through a mix of mathematical description, computational modelling and experimental investigations. These techniques are covered in Chemical & Physical Sciences I, which is the appropriate preparation for Level II programs in Astrophysics, Biophysics, Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Medical Physics, and Physics.
Whether you know exactly what area of science you are interested in or are still undecided (or change your mind after you arrive!), the structure of our Level I Chemical and Physical Sciences Gateway program will provide you with a range of Level II program options. Students in Chemical and Physical Sciences do not memorize facts or equations; they learn how to ask questions and answer them through problem solving.
While some students continue in a Level II program from the same area of study as their Level I program (for example, selecting Level II Honours Chemical Biology after completion of Chemical and Physical Sciences Gateway), others discover a new area of interest and change their original direction (for example, a Chemical and Physical Sciences Gateway student may choose to move into Honours Biology or Honours Mathematics and Statistics). Regardless of your path, at the end of first year you will rank order and apply to up to four Level II programs.
Chemical and Physical Sciences Gateway students experience exciting and engaging lectures. Both Chemistry and Physics focus on providing hands-on lab experience in state-of-the-art facilities, interactive classroom lectures as well as dynamic and exciting online content.