Welcome to the Division of Physics and Applied Physics.
Our aim is to build a vibrant community of physicists, where faculty and students are partners in a mutually enriching education process, immersed in learning and discovery. We will actively seek to engage our alumni and associates from research institutions and industry to contribute in this process by sharing their expertise and experiences gained outside of the classroom.
The 4-year direct Honours academic programme that we have devised draws from the strong points in several top universities in the US and Europe, and is targeted at providing our undergraduates with a solid foundation for understanding physical phenomena, augmented by optional courses that highlight the frontiers of physics research and their key thrusts in advancing technology. There will be a strong emphasis on good experimentation and accurate measurement as the bases for fact and understanding, coupled with rigorous mathematical preparation in order to appreciate the finer details of physical theories.
The career prospects of physics graduates are wide-ranging and fulfilling. A well-trained physics graduate will be equally adept in research, professional, banking/finance-related and administrative positions, drawing upon his analytical and problem-solving skills. We are committed to nurturing young minds and preparing them for challenges in today’s globalised economy. Part of that training will include effective communication through speaking and writing.
Above all, the doors of our faculty staff are always open for any student who seeks help. We invite and encourage all students to use their time with professors and teaching staff fruitfully, to chart their own paths of enquiry and to develop their own skills in problem-solving.
In studying physics, we are like spectators observing the mysteries of the universe unfold before us. We make measurements of increasing accuracy to test our understanding of the universe, and draw conclusions as far as our physical limitations allow us. While the great discoveries of the last century and the recent advances in technology may lead us to think that the era of physics is over, nothing is further from the truth. For example, we have yet to fully understand how the fundamental laws governing quantum particles work when the particles are organized at a higher level. Nor have we found any reason for the existence of universal quantities such as the charge of an electron or the speed of light. Hence there is still much to explore in our universe and we begin by asking questions.
My best wishes to a fruitful time at NTU.