Bachelor of Science (Applied Physics) and Bachelor of Information Technology

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Macquarie University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (Applied Physics) and Bachelor of Information Technology at Macquarie University brings together the power of physical science with cutting‑edge computing skills, so you can understand how the world works and build the software and systems that shape our future. It’s perfect for students who are curious about technology, love solving problems, and want a degree that prepares them for both scientific and tech‑driven careers.

Curriculum structure

Year 1
In your first year, you’ll build foundational knowledge across both disciplines. In the science stream, units like Physics 1 and Mathematics 1 introduce you to core physical principles and quantitative skills, while in IT you’ll get hands‑on with basics such as Introduction to Computer Programming, Introduction to Cyber Security and Introduction to Database Design and Management that set you up for practical software work. These early courses give you the confidence to experiment with real code and understand how scientific inquiry and digital systems intersect.

Year 2
Year 2 deepens your physics and computing knowledge with subjects that challenge both analytical and technical thinking. In applied physics you’ll explore topics such as Mechanics & Electromagnetism and Waves & Optics, often supported by laboratory work where you measure, analyse and model physical systems, while in IT you might study areas like Data Communications, Data Modelling or begin a major such as Software Technology or Cyber Security. This year blends experimental lab sessions with collaborative programming and systems design tasks.

Year 3
By the third year, your studies become more applied and project‑focused. You could be working with advanced topics in physics such as Quantum Physics or Optics, conducting experiments in modern labs, while your IT major brings in deeper specialisation such as Artificial Intelligence, Web and Mobile App Development or Information Systems and Business Analysis. Capstone style assignments and team work are common, giving you a taste of industry‑style collaboration and problem‑solving.

Year 4
In your final year you’ll integrate what you’ve learned by tackling substantial projects in both physics and information technology. Applied physics electives may include Condensed Matter Physics or independent research projects where you analyse real data or prototype devices, while in IT you’ll likely complete a Computing Industry Project or equivalent capstone that involves real clients or industry scenarios. This final stretch is designed to synthesise your technical, analytical and communication skills in preparation for a professional or postgraduate path.

Focus areas (in a string):
Applied physics, experimental science, programming, software development, databases and networks, cybersecurity, data modelling, computational problem‑solving

Learning outcomes (in a string):
Ability to design and analyse scientific experiments, proficiency in coding and IT systems, problem‑solving using both physics and computing frameworks, teamwork and communication, capacity to apply theory to real‑world technology challenges

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The Information Technology component of this double degree is accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS), ensuring your IT knowledge meets industry standards and prepares you for professional roles in tech.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Macquarie University consistently rates well for graduate outcomes, with strong employability results for science and computing graduates due to its industry‑aligned curriculum and integrated professional experience opportunities

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

In the Bachelor of Science (Applied Physics) and Bachelor of Information Technology at Macquarie University, your learning extends far beyond lectures into practical, hands‑on environments that mirror real‑world scientific and tech workplaces. You’ll build technical confidence in laboratories and collaborative spaces, use modern IT tools and software to solve problems, and participate in work‑integrated experiences that connect your studies with industry and community organisations. Through diverse projects, internships and placements embedded in your degree, you’ll strengthen your skills, build professional networks, and graduate job‑ready with practical experience under your belt:

Professional and Community Engagement (PACE): Every Macquarie bachelor degree includes PACE units that embed real‑world learning into your studies, such as internships, practicums, industry projects, fieldwork or research activities with more than 3 000 partner organisations across Australia and internationally. These experiences help you gain credit while applying your knowledge in authentic settings and developing sought‑after professional skills.
State‑of‑the‑Art Science & Engineering Facilities: You’ll have access to advanced laboratories, research equipment and specialised centres that support learning across physics and computing, enabling you to experiment with real data, prototype systems and explore complex scientific concepts hands‑on.
Macquarie Astronomical Observatory: For physics‑related units and observational projects, the on‑campus observatory allows students to work with telescopes and imaging technology — enhancing your experience in physical sciences and observational techniques.
Collaborative Workspaces & Maker Facilities: Facilities like multidisciplinary maker spaces and robotics labs encourage you to design, build and test technology projects, blending creative problem‑solving with engineering and IT tools.
IT Tools & Software Environments: Throughout your IT studies you’ll engage with current programming languages, database management systems, network simulation tools and software development platforms that reflect industry standards and prepare you for tech roles.
Group Projects & Industry‑Linked Challenges: Many units integrate team‑based projects or industry briefs that simulate workplace collaboration, giving you experience in communicating ideas, managing tasks and delivering solutions to real technical challenges.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from the Bachelor of Science (Applied Physics) and Bachelor of Information Technology at Macquarie University opens doors to a wide range of careers where both technical problem‑solving and digital expertise are in high demand. You could step into roles such as software developer, data analyst, systems engineer, or research associate, blending physics‑based analytical understanding with advanced computing capabilities. To support this transition and help you succeed, Macquarie offers strong services and outcomes tailored to your future career:

Supportive Career Services: Careers and Student Employment and online tools like Employability Connect help you with career planning, résumé and cover letter building, interview preparation, job listings and professional development events — all designed to boost your employability while you study and after graduation.
Professional & Community Engagement (PACE): Every undergraduate degree at Macquarie includes PACE units — work‑integrated learning experiences such as internships, placements or industry projects with over 3 000 host organisations — helping you gain on‑the‑job experience and build professional networks before you graduate.
Industry Connections & Partnerships: The university works with a diverse set of industry partners, including leading firms like Commonwealth Bank, Deloitte, PwC and Macquarie Bank, providing exposure to contemporary workplace needs and potential pathways into employment or project collaboration.
Graduate Outcomes & Salary Potential: Macquarie’s own Graduate Destination Survey shows that around 88 % of graduates are active in the labour market (working full‑ or part‑time) within about a year of finishing their studies, reflecting strong employment prospects for degree holders.
Long‑Term Accreditation Value: This double degree combines scientific rigor with industry‑relevant IT skills, preparing you for careers across tech, research, engineering and analytics — fields that continue to grow in demand globally.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’re drawn to deeper specialization or research, this degree provides a solid foundation for postgraduate study. You could pursue honours in science or IT, or move on to a specialised Master’s degree in areas such as software engineering, data science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity or applied physics, which will elevate your technical expertise and further expand your career prospects. Another option is research‑oriented postgraduate pathways such as MPhil or PhD, allowing you to contribute to innovative discoveries or take on advanced technical leadership roles in academia, industry or government research organisations.