Physics, Ecology and Sustainability
This programme fuses physics with applied ecology and global change science, applying physical laws and quantitative methods to energy flows, ecosystem dynamics, and environmental challenges.
Overview
BSc in the Field of Physics, Ecology and Sustainability
The escalating urgency of climate change and environmental degradation - both globally and in the national context - has revealed the need for professionals with strong scientific foundations who can contribute to solutions in energy, climate modelling, environmental monitoring, and sustainable development.
A degree in Physics, Ecology & Sustainability combines the rigour of physics with the systems thinking of applied ecology and global change science. Students master fundamental physical laws and mathematical methods whilst developing expertise in ecosystem dynamics and environmental processes.
The curriculum bridges quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and electromagnetism with ecological principles to analyse energy flows, material cycles, complexity theory, equilibrium and non-equilibrium thinking, and ecosystem responses to change.
Students learn to apply physical and quantitative methods to address pressing environmental challenges, from climate systems to resource management.
This synthesis of physics and ecology equips graduates for careers in environmental research, ecological modelling, renewable energy development, earth system science, integrated assessment modelling, science publishing, biotechnology, physics research, education, medical physics, applied technology, law, finance, consultancy and conservation science, positioning them to advance both scientific understanding and sustainable solutions.
Career Opportunities
Graduates are equipped for careers spanning climate modelling, renewable energy, conservation science, sustainability consulting, science communication and education. The programme also provides the foundation for postgraduate studies in Physics, Ecology and Environmental Sciences.
Curriculum
Year of Study I |
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Mathematics I: MATH1034A MATH1036A |
Algebra I Calculus I |
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PHYS1000A |
Physics I (Major) |
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BIOL1035A |
Introductory Life Sciences I |
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CHEM1012A |
Chemistry I |
Year of Study II |
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Physics II: PHYS2001A PHYS2002A |
Physics IIA (Major) Physics IIB (Major) |
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Ecology, Environment and Conservation II: APES2039A APES2040A |
Ecology, Environment and Conservation IIA Ecology, Environment and Conservation IIB |
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Mathematics II: MATH2001A MATH2003A MATH2007A MATH2019A MATH2015A MATH2016A |
Basic Analysis II Differential Equations II Multivariable Calculus III Linear Algebra II Abstract Mathematics II Advanced Analysis II |
Year of Study III |
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PHYS III: PHYS3000A PHYS3002A PHYS3012A PHYS3006A |
Quantum Mechanics III Statistical Physics III Computational Physics III Advanced Experimental Physics and Project III |
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Applied Ecology and Global Change III: APES3082A APES3083A |
Applied Ecology and Global Change IIIA: Individuals, Populations and Communities Applied Ecology and Global Change IIIB: Managing our Complex World |
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Students must select one of the following courses for a total of 12 credits |
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APES3081A or APES3084A |
Research Methods in Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences III Practical Skills in Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences III |
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Students must select one of the following courses for a total of 11 credits |
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PHYS3001A or PHYS3004A |
Applications of Quantum Mechanics III Introduction to Geophysics |
Entry Requirements
APS 43+
English Home Language OR First Additional Language Level 6 or ≥ 70%
Mathematics and Physical Science at least 70%
Wait-listing
Applicants with 40-42 points may be wait-listed, subject to place availability.
International Applicants
For specific international entry requirements, click here to view the full guidelines
National Benchmark Test
All applicants to the Faculty of Science are required to write the National Benchmark Test by 31 October 2026.
There are two tests: The Academic and Quantitative Literacy Test and the Mathematics Test. Both tests must be written in one session. Your test results are used in addition to your Grade 12 results to identify students who may need additional support during the course of their studies.
You can register for the NBT before you submit your application to 第一吃瓜网. DO NOT wait for an official notification from 第一吃瓜网 to register for and write the tests, as you may miss the end of September deadline. For test dates, registration dates and available venues, please refer to the NBT website
University Application Process
- The Student Enrolment Centre at 第一吃瓜网 handles all student applications.
- Please click here for an overview of the application process.
- Check the admission requirements for your degree. Check if any additional selection requirements apply.
- Submit your application, required documentation and application fee before the closing date.
- Once you have applied, an Admissions Consultant will be assigned to your application.
- Applicants can monitor the progress of their application/s via the .
- Part-time students are not eligible for NSFAS funding, University Entrance Scholarships, or campus residence placement.
- If you are an international applicant and/or hold a foreign qualification, please click here.
Compliance with the minimum requirements does not guarantee a place at the University. The University has a specific number of places for first year undergraduates, approved by the Department of Higher Education and Training. Final selection is made subject to the availability of places, academic results and other entry requirements where applicable.
University Fees and Funding
Click here to see the current average tuition fees for the first year of study. The Fees website also provides information about the payment of fees and closing dates for fees payments. Once you have applied you will be able to access the fees estimator on the student self-service portal.
The Financial Aid and Scholarships Office provides information on student funding and scholarships. University-funded Scholarships include Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships, University Entrance Scholarships, Equality Scholarships, Sports Scholarships and National Olympiad winner awards. For information about NSFAS funding, please visit the . The Bursaries South Africa website provides a comprehensive list of bursaries in South Africa.