Bachelor of Science Honours in Physics

Purpose

The primary purpose of this qualification is to provide qualifying learners with the opportunity to develop and train as qualified scientists with intellectual and practical skills to analyse interpret and apply scientific laws, principles and methods.

Rationale

The qualification is a specialisation in the field of Physical Sciences to prepare the learners for research based post graduate study. The qualification demands a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence, and serves as the initial science postgraduate specialisation qualification providing learners with in-depth scientific knowledge and skills preparing them for research based postgraduate science study. Through the acquisition of appropriate research and practical skills the learner will discover the application of physical science and will be able to reflect upon the application of physical science in the technological environment.

Recognition for Prior Learning(RPL)

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is done in accordance with the University of Johannesburg(UJ) RPL Policy. In cases of students not complying with the formal entry requirements, RPL will be determined in accordance with the policy and guideline of the University concerning the recognition of other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience. Recognition takes place only where prior learning corresponds to the required National Qualifications Framework(NQF) level, and in terms of applied competencies relevant to the content and outcomes of the qualification. Through recognition of prior learning, learners may gain access on condition that they continue their studies at UJ.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is the

• Bachelor of Science National Qualifications Framework(NQF) Level 7.

This qualification comprises of compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework(NQF) Level 5, 6 and 7 totalling at 219 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 183 Credits

• Advanced Electromagnetism, 12 Credits.
• Advanced Quantum Mechanics B, 12 Credits.
• Particle Physics 1, 12 Credits.
• Advanced Statistical Physics, 12 Credits.
• Advanced Quantum Mechanics A, 12 Credits.
• Advanced Solid State Physics A, 12 Credits.
• Nuclear Physics 2, 12 Credits.
• Astrophysics 2, 12 Credits.
• Advanced Classical Mechanics, 12 Credits.
• Astrophysics 1, 12 Credits.
• Mathematical Methods of Physics, 12 Credits.
• Physics Project, 15 Credits.
• Nuclear Physics 1, 12 Credits.
• Advanced Solid State Physics, 12 Credits.
• Quantum Field They, 12 Credits.

Elective Modules, Level 8, 12 Credits (Choose One)

• General Relativity, 12 Credits.
• Particle Physics, 12 Credits.
• Computational Physics, 12 Credits.

1. Identify, evaluate and address their own professional and on-going learning needs.
2. Demonstrate efficient and effective information retrieval and processing skills, using appropriate Information and Communications Technology(ICT).
3. Demonstrate a comprehensive, systematic and critical knowledge and understanding of the principles, scope, theories and epistemologies of Physical Sciences.
4. Evaluate their own and others academic work and initiatives against informed criteria.
5. Present and communicate ideas and texts, offering professional insights, interpretations and solutions to problems and issues appropriate to Physical Sciences.
6. Use science and technology in complex and challenging contexts and make autonomous ethical decisions on complex professional issues in accordance with recognised professional and/or ethical standards.
7. Critique current research and advanced scholarship in Physical Sciences and make research methodologies and methods/techniques to research problem/s in Physical Sciences.
8. Identify, analyse, synthesise and undertake independent evaluation of quantitative and/or qualitative data, and to engage with and evaluate current research and scholarly or professional literature in Physical Sciences.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be used in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes

• Formulate an appropriate hypothesis, plan, carry out an advanced experimental program and analyse results obtained correctly.
• Integrate experimental data with advanced existing information.
• Make logical, sound conclusions to resolve a problem.
• Formulate and handle advanced theoretical models and display a contribution to meaningful participation in the group.
• Display a readiness to accept a responsible part in a group effort.
• Contribute to the effectiveness of the group.
• Perform the experiment with skill and accuracy required and relate the findings to the aim of the research assignments, and apply to the outcome independently.
• Analyse, organise and interpret the advanced relevant information and critically evaluate the advanced information.
• Communicate scientific contents effectively and write clear and descriptive experimental reports on research assignments.
• Deal the edge technology and use on the edge technology responsibly in the environment.
• Identify the relation between the various systems and different physical principles making up all science and technology.
• Make effective use of experimental techniques in order to obtain data.
• Make use of advanced textbooks available to him in the library.
• Relate knowledge to everyday technology and science in general through reading scientific literature.
• Make responsible use of his acquired knowledge in his/her community.
• Acquire skills that would make one employable in industry and identify economic activities that are based on physics.

Integrated Assessment

Formative assessment practices that will be implemented by assessing learners continuously assessed during modules via informal and formal written testes, experimental reports on research assignments, theoretical assignments, theoretical assignments, self and peer assessment and group assignments. Summative assessment will be implemented by focusing on the achievement of the exit-level outcomes, will be done by means of a written examination per module at the end of each module. Research assignments will be evaluated and accumulated practical points will be given.