Bachelor of Science(Physics), Bachelor of Innovation

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Curtin University Perth

Program Overview

If you’re someone who enjoys understanding how the universe works while also wanting to create real-world solutions, this double degree gives you the best of both worlds. The Bachelor of Science (Physics), Bachelor of Innovation at Curtin University blends deep scientific knowledge with creative problem-solving and entrepreneurial thinking.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
You’ll build a strong scientific and innovation foundation, starting with core units like Foundations of Physics, Linear Algebra and Calculus, and Introduction to Innovation. At the same time, you’ll begin developing creative thinking and teamwork skills through innovation-focused projects that challenge you to approach real-world problems differently.

Year 2:
As you progress, your physics knowledge expands into areas such as Electromagnetism, Thermodynamics, and Mathematical Methods for Scientists. Alongside this, innovation units like Design Thinking and Innovation Practice help you apply scientific concepts to practical challenges, encouraging experimentation and solution design.

Year 3:
This year deepens your expertise with advanced topics like Quantum Mechanics, Statistical Physics, and Experimental Physics. You’ll also engage in Innovation Project Development, where you collaborate on multidisciplinary projects, turning ideas into prototypes or viable solutions.

Year 4:
In your final year, you’ll bring everything together through a Physics Honours Project or advanced research units, alongside Innovation Capstone Projects. These experiences allow you to tackle complex scientific or industry-based problems while refining your leadership, entrepreneurship, and commercialization skills.

Focus Areas (in a string):
Theoretical physics, applied physics, quantum mechanics, innovation strategy, design thinking, entrepreneurship, research and development.

Learning Outcomes (in a string):
Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills, strong quantitative and computational ability, innovation and design thinking capability, research and experimental expertise, teamwork and leadership skills.

Professional Alignment (accreditation):
Aligned with industry expectations in science, technology, and innovation sectors, preparing graduates for research institutions, tech industries, and entrepreneurial ventures.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Curtin University is consistently ranked in global rankings such as QS for strong graduate employability and industry-connected learning.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Curtin, you won’t just learn physics and innovation theory in lectures — you’ll actively apply what you learn through real-world experiences, industry‑linked projects, and hands‑on work that builds job‑ready skills. Physics and science students engage with advanced laboratories and research facilities on campus, while innovation units centre around practical problem solving, design thinking and entrepreneurial challenges that take you beyond the classroom. With opportunities for industry collaboration, site visits, and work‑integrated learning embedded in your degree, you’ll graduate confident in both technical competence and creative leadership.

Here’s how this plays out in practice:

Work‑Integrated Learning & Capstone Projects: Curtin’s science and innovation curriculum includes industry‑linked projects and final‑year capstone experiences where you solve real challenges for employers or community partners.
Research‑Grade Laboratories: Access to state‑of‑the‑art labs for physics and science research, including specialised equipment for measurement, experimentation and analysis — and close links to facilities like the John de Laeter Centre, which houses advanced instruments for characterising materials and conducting isotope science.
Innovation Tools and Programs: Participate in Curtin’s Ignition and Accelerate entrepreneurship programs, where you’ll use industry tools and mentorship to develop, prototype and pitch new business ideas.
Industry Site Visits & Study Tours: Structured opportunities for site visits and interactive experiences that connect your physics or innovation learning with real workplaces and emerging industries.
Workshops and Industry Guest Sessions: Integrated hands‑on workshops with business leaders and scientific professionals that build practical teamwork, communication and professional skills.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (Physics), Bachelor of Innovation at Curtin University leave equipped with a powerful mix of analytical, experimental and creative problem‑solving skills, ready to pursue exciting careers where science meets innovation. Typical roles you might step into include Research Scientist, Innovation Consultant, Product Developer, or Technology Analyst, all of which are in high demand as industries grow more tech‑ and innovation‑driven:

Here’s how Curtin supports your future success:

University career services: UniHub offers tailored career coaching, résumé support, interview prep and internship/job listings specifically designed to help science and innovation students transition to the workforce; WIL projects and employer events broaden your professional network.
Strong employment outcomes: Curtin is ranked Western Australia’s top university for undergraduate employment, with a high proportion of graduates in full‑time work and competitive median starting salaries compared with other institutions.
Industry partnerships: Integrated work‑integrated learning, projects and placements connect you with real employers and research partners across science, technology and business sectors, boosting your practical experience and visibility to recruiters.
Accreditation value: A Curtin qualification is recognised for its strong industry relevance and practical focus, giving you long‑term credibility with employers here in Australia and internationally.
Graduate outcomes: Many science and innovation graduates go on to careers in cutting‑edge fields like data science, climate tech, research labs, and entrepreneurial ventures, demonstrating the versatility and future‑readiness of this degree.

Further Academic Progression:
After finishing this degree, you could continue your studies with honours or postgraduate research degrees in physics, innovation or related areas, or pursue specialised masters programs in fields such as Master of Science, Master of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Master of Engineering Science, or Master of Data Science to deepen expertise and open doors to advanced research or leadership roles in industry.