Bachelor of Arts and Science - Women and Gender Studies and Physics (Optional Co-op)

For the Bachelor of Arts and Science, students must complete two majors: an Arts major, and a Science major.

Women and Gender Studies offer students the opportunity to learn how these changes were initiated and gives them the tools to actively participate in the creation of an inclusive society.

Using feminist theory and research methodologies, Women and Gender Studies examine the historical and contemporary conditions of women and men in society. The department draws on a vibrant community of scholars and activists both inside and outside the university to explore a wide range of issues.

Students in the program will increase their knowledge of women’s lives, bodies, experiences, labor and scholarship. They will also explore feminism as an influential political and social global movement that has generated significant change in all aspects of daily life for men and women.

The department encourages all students to enroll in women and gender studies classes to discover enlightening perspectives applicable to their chosen field of study. By participating in these classes, they will develop an in-depth understanding of how current and historical events, ideas and institutions have been structured by gender, ethnicity, race, age, ability, class and sexuality.

Physics is the study of matter and energy at all scales, from the sub-nuclear to the dimensions of the universe. It is the fundamental science — all other sciences and technologies rely on the principles of physics.

Physics involves observing and understanding natural phenomena. It is evident in the world in everything from the seasons, the motion of objects, the flight of birds, the night sky and the weather, to lasers, electronics and the technology society relies on today.

Physics is very much a “hands-on” science, so the most effective way for students to learn the subject is to actually do physics. Astronomy teaches them how to study objects at a distance and interpret the information gathered. This helps to begin to understand the universe. The skills students will learn in astronomy are also applicable to remote sensing and its application to environmental problems.

The department offers a comprehensive physics major. The foundation of this program is built in the first two years, as students study mechanics, waves, electricity and magnetism, optics, thermal physics and modern physics.

In the third and fourth years, students will gain a deeper understanding of the fundamentals and delve into more advanced and specialized areas. Specialized topics may include the research interests of department faculty members, as all faculty members are involved in rigorous research programs.

Faculty members also ensure students are provided with a wide view of physics, exposing them to all areas of the subject and describing a wide variety of applications. This enables them to make informed decisions when choosing the areas they may wish to pursue in the future.