Bachelor of Science(Physics), Bachelor of Arts

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Curtin University Perth

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (Physics) / Bachelor of Arts at Curtin University is a four-year dual degree program that combines rigorous scientific training with a broad exploration of the humanities. It’s designed for students who want to develop strong analytical and research skills in physics while gaining critical thinking, communication, and cultural insights through arts studies.

Curriculum structure

Year 1:
You will build foundational knowledge in both physics and arts through units such as PHYS1001 Physics 1, MATH1001 Calculus 1, and introductory arts courses like ARTS1001 Foundations of Humanities. This year focuses on core scientific principles, basic laboratory skills, and critical analysis across arts disciplines.

Year 2:
Second-year courses deepen your understanding of physics with PHYS2001 Classical Mechanics, PHYS2002 Electromagnetism, and MATH2001 Mathematical Methods, while arts units explore topics such as literature, history, or social sciences. You’ll start integrating analytical thinking from science with interpretive and communication skills from arts studies.

Year 3:
You will progress into advanced physics topics including PHYS3001 Quantum Mechanics and PHYS3002 Statistical Physics, alongside upper-level arts electives such as ARTS3001 Global Culture and Society. Students also engage in independent projects and collaborative research opportunities, enhancing both scientific and humanities research skills.

Year 4:
The final year focuses on specialisation and integration, with options such as PHYS4001 Physics Research Project and advanced arts seminars or capstone units. You’ll complete an independent physics research project and a substantial arts research or applied project, preparing for professional or academic progression.

Focus areas (in a string):
Physics research, experimental physics, quantum mechanics, humanities studies, interdisciplinary analysis

Learning outcomes (in a string):
Apply advanced physics concepts, conduct scientific research, analyse complex data, integrate interdisciplinary perspectives, communicate effectively across scientific and cultural contexts

Professional alignment (accreditation):
Meets national and international standards for physics education and provides broad interdisciplinary skills valued in research, government, and industry. (Accredited by the Australian Institute of Physics.)

Reputation (employability rankings):
Curtin University is highly regarded for STEM and arts education, with strong graduate employability and research recognition in Australia

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Curtin University, the Bachelor of Science (Physics) / Bachelor of Arts program provides students with extensive hands-on and interdisciplinary experiences, combining scientific experimentation with arts-based research and critical analysis. You’ll gain practical skills through physics laboratories, computational simulations, and arts projects, while also engaging in collaborative and independent research to develop problem-solving and communication abilities. This integrated approach ensures graduates leave with both technical expertise and a broad, adaptable skill set.

Practical learning and research opportunities include:

Physics laboratories: You’ll perform experiments in optics, quantum mechanics, and materials science, using advanced lab equipment and instrumentation.
Research projects: You’ll undertake independent and group research projects in physics, enhancing experimental design, data analysis, and scientific reporting skills.
Computational tools and software: You’ll apply MATLAB, Python, and other simulation software for modelling, data processing, and analysis.
Arts research and projects: You’ll engage in humanities-based research, developing critical thinking, writing, and presentation skills.
Interdisciplinary group work: You’ll collaborate on projects that combine physics and arts perspectives, fostering teamwork and creative problem-solving.
Curtin University Library and digital resources: Access to scientific journals, humanities databases, and online tools supports research across both disciplines.
Field experiences and industry exposure: Opportunities may include workshops, seminars, or collaborations with research institutes and professional organisations related to science and arts.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (Physics) / Bachelor of Arts from Curtin University are well-equipped for a wide range of careers, combining technical expertise in physics with strong analytical, research, and communication skills from the arts. Typical roles include research scientist, data analyst, science communicator, and policy advisor, allowing graduates to work in scientific, governmental, or cultural sectors. This dual skill set also positions students for interdisciplinary roles where science and society intersect:

Curtin Careers and Employment Service: Provides tailored career advice, workshops, mentoring, CV and interview preparation, and access to graduate employment opportunities across STEM and arts industries
Graduate outcomes and salaries: Curtin graduates report strong employment rates and competitive starting salaries in both scientific and arts-related fields
University–industry partnerships: Opportunities exist through collaborations with research institutes, government agencies, and cultural organisations linked to Curtin’s science and arts networks
Professional recognition and long-term value: The program equips graduates with nationally and internationally recognised skills in physics and interdisciplinary analysis, enhancing career mobility and credibility
Graduation outcomes: Many graduates pursue research, policy, consultancy, science communication, or continue to postgraduate study in physics, arts, or interdisciplinary fields

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can advance to honours or postgraduate research in physics or related STEM disciplines, or pursue master’s degrees in areas such as public policy, science communication, or interdisciplinary research programs. This pathway allows you to specialise further and open opportunities for leadership roles in research, government, industry, or academia.