Physical Sciences majors will extend their interdisciplinary preparation in science provided by the Common Curriculum with a rigorous, in-depth sequence of courses that explore advanced topics in physics, chemistry, and space sciences. By integrating multiple disciplines and emphasising the ability to understand physical concepts deeply, the major enables students to continuously question and refine their understanding of scientific issues and solve real-world problems.

Requirements for a Major in the Physical Sciences

The major requires 54 Units of coursework (ten 5 Unit courses and two 2.5 Unit “half” courses) including a capstone project, required courses, and elective courses that allow the student to specialise within the discipline. Students design a pathway in their chosen specialty in close consultation with a faculty advisor and with approval from the Head of Studies. Several illustrative pathways are provided below for students wishing to concentrate in chemistry or physics, as well as for students who want a truly interdisciplinary pathway. Courses taken while on study abroad or at NUS can count towards the major, either to replace a required course or as an upper-division elective in the major, with approval from the Head of Studies.

Requirements (Class of 2022)

For the Class of 2022: see the major requirements on this page.

Requirements (Class of 2023 onwards)

All students in the Physical Sciences major are required to complete 54 Unit in the following:

1. Both General Chemistry (YSC1207) and General Physics (YSC1213), or a proficiency waiver obtained from the Head of Studies;
2. One foundational mathematics course from the following list: Calculus (YSC1216 or MA1102R), Multivariable Calculus (YSC2252 or MA2104), Mathematical Methods in Physical Sciences (YSC2205), Foundations of Applied Math (YSC3240), Linear Algebra (YSC2232), Introduction to Real Analysis (YSC3206), Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations (YSC4220), or Complex Analysis (YSC4210);
3. One laboratory course from the following list: Experimental Methods in Physical Sciences (YSC2246), Organic Chemistry Laboratory (YSC2222), Experimental Physics Laboratory (YSC3213), Inorganic Chemistry with Laboratory (YSC3228);
4. Either Accelerated Organic Chemistry (YSC2224) or Classical Mechanics (YSC2203);
5. Statistical Thermodynamics (YSC3224);
6. At least two other courses (a minimum of 10 Unit) in the Physical Sciences major at level 3000 or higher (these courses could be taken during study abroad or at NUS);
7. A year-long Physical Sciences Research Seminar (YSC4209; 2.5 Unit in both Semesters 1 & 2);
8. A year-long Physical Sciences Capstone Project (YSC4101; 5 Unit in both Semesters 1 & 2).

Capstone: In their fourth year, students will complete a guided independent research project in Physical Sciences in consultation with a faculty advisor. The capstone can comprise original theoretical or experimental work in astronomy, chemistry, or physics. This academic experience will be an opportunity for the students to engage in cutting-edge research in physical sciences while synthesising what they have learned in their courses. The results of the capstone will also be communicated to their peers and faculty, using the presentations and writing styles consistent with practice in the professional scientific disciplines. For more details, see Capstones.

Examples of Major Pathways

Below are several suggested pathways through the Physical Sciences major that capture the most common concentrations (chemistry, physics, or physical sciences) and entry points (students who enter knowing they want to major in Physical Sciences, and students who decide to major in Physical Sciences during their second year). Additional paths through the major are very possible, but these plans represent the most common routes and should be used to guide students’ course selections with advice from faculty. Students who are considering to apply to graduate programmes are encouraged to start taking major requirements early.

Note that the “early start” pathways listed below include more courses than strictly required by the major in order to prepare students for graduate programmes. The “later start” pathways fulfill the minimum requirements for the major, however there are open course slots that could be used to take additional upper-division courses as appropriate for students’ goals. For examples of advanced chemistry and physics electives, see the page on courses offered. Depending on teaching schedules year to year, courses may also not be offered in the semester listed below, so be sure to discuss specific course plans with major advisors. Students may also consult this Physical Sciences Flowchart to design their path through the major.

Chemistry Pathway (Early Start):

Chemistry Pathway (Later Start, Minimum Requirements):

Physics Pathway (Early Start):

Physics Pathway (Later Start, Minimum Requirements):

Physical Sciences Pathway (Early Start):

Physical Sciences Pathway (Later Start, Minimum Requirements):

Requirements for a Minor in the Physical Sciences

Students minoring in Physical Sciences must complete 25 Units (5 courses) chosen from among the list of courses that count toward the major.