Topic

Undergraduate Physical and Chemical Sciences

02 November 2023

A Bachelor of Science (BSc) is about understanding and improving the natural world. The School of Physical and Chemical Sciences offers undergraduate courses in Astronomy, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry and Physics. Check out undergraduate Physical and Chemical Sciences options at UC.

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A Bachelor of Science (BSc) is about understanding and improving the natural world through observation, experimentation, modelling and calculation. As a BSc student in physical or chemical sciences, you'll explore the wonder of our world and universe, join a community of like-minded thinkers and apply your mind to solving real-world problems.

As an undergraduate science student at UC you will:

Be exposed to new ideas and technologies
Get hands-on in laboratories and field stations, using high-tech equipment
Develop your research skills
Learn to understand and influence the world around you
Gain work-ready skills and the knowledge employers need.

Useful links

Bachelor of Science

Certificate in Science

Careers in Physical and Chemical Sciences

Contact the School of Physical and Chemical Sciences

Admission and enrolment

Students conducting chemistry experiments in a lab © Restricted/University of Canterbury

Find out more about the structure and requirements for a Bachelor of Science degree
For those wanting a lighter load than a degree, see the Certificate in Science
If you have a degree in another area, you may be able to study the Graduate Diploma in Science
Discover entry requirements, course details and study pathways for a degree in Astronomy, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Physics or Medicinal Chemistry.
Investigate potential career options depending on your science major.

Undergraduate courses in Astronomy, Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Physics are designed both for students majoring in one of those subjects and for students taking a few courses while majoring in other subjects.

Applied learning at undergraduate level happens:

in laboratory sessions
on fieldtrips, utilising facilities such as the Mount John astronomical observatory in Tekapo
using technology like Hercules, a high resolution spectograph, or the MARS X-ray image scanner
around campus, for example testing pH levels in Ilam Stream waterway
on industry projects, like the final-year Physics in Industry Projects Scheme.

These experiences deepen your skillset, awareness of others, working knowledge, and employability.

If you have excellent Year 13 results or a New Zealand Certificate in Science with outstanding merit, you may be able to fast-track your degree and gain direct entry to the second year of a Undergraduate. This gives students the opportunity to complete an honours degree in three years.