Tabbed menu for the main content

Physical science drives technology

Physics is the problem-solving engine behind the new tech industries that are reinventing New Zealand’s economy—such as quantum computing, data analytics, and satellite launching.

Learn to create theoretical models that fuel real innovation. You’ll develop the skills to help create cutting edge technologies like next-generation solar panels or to model climate change more accurately than ever before.

$1750 million

Estimated revenue of the NZ space economy in 2019

How does physics solve the world's problems?

Video preview

Stay updated

Fill in the form to find out more about studying Physics at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.

Learn Physics—study the mechanics of the universe

When you study Physics at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, you’ll discover the components and forces that make up our universe. You’ll be learning from world-leading specialists in exciting new areas like astrophysics, biophysics, nanotechnology, and spintronics—and have opportunities to visit their laboratories and even participate in their research.

Learn about astronomy and orbital mechanics and develop an understanding of how objects move around the galaxy. Explore electromagnetism, the science behind radio-based technologies as diverse as mobile phones, microwaves, and medical scanners. Discover thermal physics, and build an understanding of the theoretical framework behind climate change or how to keep astronauts cool on re-entry to the atmosphere.

You’ll delve into quantum physics, studying quantum mechanics and learning to create models of the smallest processes in the universe, those inside and between atoms and molecules. It's these models that can, in turn, help us to better understand tiny entities like coronaviruses or create new spectacular new materials.

portrait photo

It’s very satisfying to have a problem in front of you and to be able to solve it just using equations. Having a mathematical answer to something that occurs in nature is really cool.

Joe Poata

Bachelor of Science student in Physics

Full story

Wellington—New Zealand’s technology hub

You’ll build connections for your future through the University’s relationships with Wellington’s technology and innovation community.

You’ll have the opportunity to learn from and work with leading researchers at institutes like NIWA and the Robinson and MacDiarmid research institutes, as well as forging relationships with the city’s start-ups and growing tech industry.

And throughout your time with us you’ll learn programming, data analysis and problem-solving skills that will position you for exciting careers.

Physics is collaborative

Modern physics is all about working as a team—and our approach to teaching reflects this. You’ll get close support from teaching staff and other students throughout your study. Physics at Wellington has a whānau approach where it’s safe to make mistakes as you’re learning, where you know the staff and the staff know you.

We’re housed in a bright and open building, with plenty of common spaces where you can learn collaboratively alongside the physics community.

Get hands on with applied Physics

Throughout your Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree, you'll explore physical phenomena through experimentation and learn to use modern, industry-standard scientific equipment—as well as developing valuable skills in computer programming, software modelling, and data visualisation.

After you graduate

The wide range of job opportunities for Physics graduates might surprise you. You might have considered research or teaching, but how about becoming a medical physicist, working in a technology firm, data analysis, or joining an aviation company?

Love Wellington

Wellington is a great place to be a student. It's culturally rich, has a stunning natural environment and you can walk almost everywhere. It's also home to the highest concentration of scientists and science organisations in New Zealand.

Support for students

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington is a welcoming place with great student support. There are all sorts of resources available to help you get the best out of your time at university.

Next

Related subject areas