Students majoring in Physical Sciences will explore some of the fundamental processes in matter, energy, space, and time. How did the universe emerge? What is the structure of matter? What physical laws determine the properties of the matter that comprises our planet and its life forms? The major emphasises the ability to understand physical concepts deeply and to solve real world scientific problems, which necessitates clear critical thinking, mathematical reasoning, and empirical observation. The skills acquired while pursuing the major, including scientific research, technical problem solving, numerical simulation, and theoretical modelling, are attractive to employers in both scientific and non-scientific sectors. For students who want to pursue further education, the major also offers excellent preparation for doctoral study in physics, astronomy, and chemistry, as well as for advanced degrees in engineering, biophysics, biochemistry, law, and medicine.
Physical Sciences at Yale-NUS
Pursuing a Physical Sciences major at Yale-NUS promises to open up a world of opportunities for students. The learning goals of the major are as follows:
- Through introductory bridge courses, we aim to instil foundational knowledge in chemistry and physics by building on the scientific inquiry skills taught in the Common Curriculum.
- We aim to train our students in cross-disciplinary mathematical, computational, and experimental techniques that are valuable for both graduate school and future scientific employment. These skills and students’ content knowledge are deepened through early involvement in research projects and more advanced coursework in the major.
- Through their coursework and research experiences, students will learn to apply critical reasoning to important questions in the discipline as well as real-world problems.
- Students will gain scientific literacy, allowing them to search, read, and critique the scientific literature. They will also be trained in scientific communication through both oral and written assignments, and are particularly encouraged to present their research at conferences.
- Students’ independence and scientific creativity culminate with their senior capstone project, where they will demonstrate mastery of the skills relevant to a particular research question, as well as their written and oral communication skills.
I think Physical Sciences is one of the most misunderstood majors. The Physical Sciences curriculum has its origins in Plato’s quadrivium and Newton’s natural philosophy. As a major it prepares its students broadly in empirical observation, mathematical modelingmodelling and computational simulation, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate these ideas orally, visually and in writing. The Physical Sciences experience is the quintessential liberal arts training, giving graduates technical problem–solving skills that can be applied to societal challenges both in the scientific and non-scientific domains. In the United States, roughly half of the physical science graduates go on graduate studies not only in physics, astronomy and chemistry, but also in engineering, law and medicine. The other half enters the workforce immediately after completion of the BS degree (with one of the highest starting salaries of any major), mostly employed in research and development, engineering or computer and information systems. So come join our major for a world of opportunities.
– Shaffique Adam, Associate Professor of Sciences (Physics)
