Future Students

Physics and astronomy involves the study of matter, forces, and energy as they relate to the understanding of our environment, from Earth to the distant reaches of the universe.  

Astronomers employ theory, simulations, and observations to provide insight on topics such as star and planet formation. Physics research ranges from curiosity-driven theories about the universe to practical applications in  modern  materials research and  medical  physics, developing  tools for diagnostic  imaging (e.g., MRI and ultrasound), cancer treatment, and neuroscience.  

 

 

 

Student Perspective

Claire Headshot

I spent  my first three  years  at   Western  studying  astrophysics taking the next year  off from  studies  to  complete  a 16-month internship  with the Science Internship Program In a theoretical sense, the Physics and   Astronomy  program  provided a great foundation from which  the  internship  program  drew upon and put into practice, enabling my learning to relate to the real world.  Upon graduation, I was very confident I had the skills to apply in the workforce and my internship experience played a key role.

At the London Regional Cancer Program, I researched  the  effects  of a  new  form of lung cancer treatment and  presented  my  work  at various scientific conferences. I had the opportunity to work with, and  learn from,   amazing scientists.  The  experience was enriching, rewarding, and  helped  embellish  my  degree.  Upon my return to school to complete my fourth year and as a result of my internship, I changed my degree to physics and decided to add a fifth year to complete a minor in computer science, setting me out on the career path I wished to pursue. 

Sean, BSc 2019



Careers

Students in Physics & Astronomy develop skills in problem-solving, physical measurements, computation, and analysis - highly sought after abilities in many fields. All of our students are well-prepared to enter graduate school to become professionals in rapidly evolving disciplines. Graduates are employed worldwide in fields as diverse as pure and applied research, medicine, engineering, teaching, science journalism, management, and finance. Indeed, it is difficult to find any career in which physicists are not represented. Recent graduates have gone on to work as industry scientists at medical imaging companies, software specialists working with big data, and completing MD degrees at Ontario medical schools.