Welcome
The School of Chemical and Physical Sciences has a high profile at Victoria University and is nationally and internationally recognised for its teaching and research in Chemistry and Physics.
Victoria University is a popular choice for Chemistry study. An external review of our Chemistry programmes, conducted in 2008, commended us for ‘the development of internationally renowned academic programmes that are informed through research and activities such as symposia and colloquia.’
We also offer a diverse range of study options in Physics. Geomagnetism and astrophysics consider the biggest scales of our world and the Universe, while nanotechnology and quantum mechanics explore the tiniest.
The wide range of courses in pure and applied physics and chemistry enable personal interests to be accommodated. Students can major in more than one subject within a standard three year programme, and may include a major from outside science.
An exciting range of postgraduate programmes lead to a BSc (Honours) after one year or to the research-based MSc and PhD programmes which on average take a further two to four years beyond a BSc.
The School has a very strong culture of fundamental and applied research. In 2008, we gained $12.6 million in new research funding from the Foundation for Research Science and Technology (FRST), the Marsden Fund and the Wool Research Organisation of New Zealand.
We host stimulating hands-on programmes for high school students several times a year. These popular Outreach programmes are tailored to the curriculum and engage students with Chemistry and Physics in ways not possible in the classroom.
Students are warmly encouraged to contact academic staff with enquiries about courses and research programmes, research opportunities, scholarships and summer employment.
I look forward to meeting you personally and wish you a stimulating and enjoyable education in your chosen field.
Professor John Spencer
Head of School
School of Chemical and Physical Sciences
Te Wānanga Matū