Building on the excellent tradition of the physics faculty in the former Department of Physics and Materials Science, the Department of Physics aspires to become a leading physics department in the Asia-Pacific Region. Our faculty members have received international recognition, including fellowships from prestigious societies such as the American Physical Society, the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the Materials Research Society.

Students pursuing the BSc Physics major are taught biophysics, medical physics, quantum physics, computational physics and optics, paving their way to diversified career paths in the medical and health care, engineering, education, commercial and industrial sectors or postgraduate studies. Students may take part in the Department’s research attachment scheme, which gives them early exposure to discovery and innovation. Students who meet certain requirements can apply for admission to the Joint Bachelor’s Degree Program between City University of Hong Kong and Columbia University in the US (http://gs.columbia.edu/cityu-hk/) or Undergraduate plus Taught Postgraduate Degree Programme (BSc Physics + MSc Applied Physics) (https://www.cityu.edu.hk/phy/ug-plus-tpg). 

Our Target

We equip our students with knowledge and critical thinking skills that will enable them to tackle difficult problems throughout their careers. The curriculum teaches not only foundational courses in physics, but also technology-driven courses such as computer modelling and advanced instrumentation. It enables students to acquire knowledge and skills from the following areas: Biophysics, Medical Physics, Quantum Physics, Computational Physics and Optics. Graduates are well equipped not only for developing a diverse range of professional careers but also for pursuing postgraduate studies.

Student Exchange/Internship

The College of Science and the Department offer work placement opportunities through different internship schemes that provide students with full-time job attachments to companies in Hong Kong, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Bay Area and Overseas. Through such placements, students will:

• gain solid experience in a real-world work environment;
• develop problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills;
• learn the right attitudes towards work and professionalism; and
• broaden their experience and enhance their employability.

Physics graduates enjoy a diverse range of challenging careers from medical physicists, financial engineers, biomedical engineers, technical sales and environmental consultants to professionals in education, product certification and quality assurance. Graduates may also develop their careers in the commercial sector or take up public sector roles in organisations such as the Hong Kong Observatory, the Environmental Protection Department and the Hospital Authority.

Our physics major also prepares students for further studies in fundamental physics, biophysics, medical physics, quantum physics, computational physics, materials engineering and other related fields.