Astrophysics and particle physics represent the pure pursuit of knowledge out of curiosity that aims at understanding phenomena from the largest to the smallest scales in nature. These fields have enjoyed a rapid growth due to advances in observational, experimental, and computational techniques in recent years. The Stream covers theories and applications. It helps students build a solid background in the fields.

Astrophysics and Particle Physics Stream (Stream-specific requirements on electives)

PHYS 2401 Introduction to Astronomy and Astrophysics
PHYS 4430 Astrophysics
PHYS 4460 Relativity
PHYS 4470 Nuclear and Particle Physics

Computational and Data Physics

Computing and Data emerge as increasingly important ways of understanding the amazing physical world. The development is coupled with recent breakthroughs in advanced algorithm design such as artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques as applied to complex physical systems. The Stream introduces fundamental concepts and techniques in computational physics and numerical simulations, and helps students develop programming, data analytics, and modeling skills that are essential in the frontiers of research and technology.

Computational and Data Physics Stream (Stream-specific requirements on electives)

PHYS 2061 Basic Computational Physics
PHYS 3061 Introduction to Computer Simulation of Physical Systems
PHYS 4061 Computational Physics

Plus one course chosen among

CSCI 3320 Fundamentals of Machine Learning
ELEG 5491 Introduction to Deep Learning
PHYS 5520 Introduction to Many-body Theory
PHYS 5610 Introduction to Biophysics

Quantum Science and Technology

The Quantum Science and Technology Stream trains students to have a solid grasp of fundamental concepts and techniques in quantum physics. The Stream-specific 15 units of quantum-related courses, on top of the compulsory quantum mechanics courses in the core curriculum, provide students with a broad view of modern and emerging applications of quantum principles in various branches of science and technology.

Quantum Science and Technology Stream (Stream-specific requirements on electives)

PHYS 4021 Quantum Mechanics II
PHYS 4031 Statistical Mechanics
PHYS 4050 Solid State Physics

Plus two courses chosen among the following items

PHYS 3023 Introduction to Quantum Information Physics
PHYS 4440 Topics in Nanoscience and Technology
PHYS 4450 Optics OR PHYS 5320 Photonics: Materials and Devices
PHYS 5510 Advanced Statistical Mechanics OR PHYS 5430 Solid State Theory
PHYS 5550 Quantum Optics OR PHYS 5590 Modern Atomic Physics

Enrichment Stream in Theoretical Physics (JS4690)

The Enrichment Stream in Theoretical Physics is designed for students who have a good foundation in secondary school physics and mathematics. The core part of the curriculum, while overlapping much with that of the physics major programme, has additional emphasis on early small-group discussion classes with an academic advisor and on research component. The pool of electives is defined by a stronger flavour towards courses in theoretical physics and mathematics. Students would have better opportunities to engage in research at an earlier stage and build up their research capabilities gradually. The Stream is meant to help students explore their research potential and bridge the gap from undergraduate physics to postgraduate studies at the master’s or doctoral level. Depending on the students’ interests and career plans, students have the option to declare an additional stream by completing stream-specific electives from: (i) Astrophysics and Particle Physics, (ii) Computational and Data Physics, or (iii) Quantum Science and Technology.