Physics and Astronomy York University

Overview

Physics and Astronomy at York University brings together fundamental physics, applied physics and astronomy & astrophysics in a single undergraduate pathway that emphasises both theory and experimental practice. The programme covers energy and matter across scales, observational and computational astrophysics, and practical laboratory skills. Students gain competence in scientific communication through written reports and oral presentations, preparing them for research or technically oriented careers.

Why Physics and Astronomy at York University?

York houses one of Canada’s leading Physics departments and offers research‑active teaching staff across diverse fields. Undergraduates can join research projects in atomic and molecular physics, laser physics, biophysics, particle physics, precision measurement, cosmology and astronomy. The department highlights outcomes such as students winning prestigious research grants and regular participation in faculty‑led investigations.

Distinctive facilities include the Allan I. Carswell Observatory (AICO), which runs a long‑term variable star monitoring programme with results presented at national meetings. Student groups such as the Astronomy Club provide peer networks and informal learning opportunities. The programme supports combinations with allied fields—Biophysics, Computer Science, Chemistry, Mathematics & Statistics—or pairing with a teaching qualification for those pursuing secondary education.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 41526 per year
• National fee: CAD 8536 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include topics such as:

• Physics
• Astronomy
• Chemistry
• Calculus
• Linear algebra
• Computer programming
• Non‑science requirement

Careers with Physics and Astronomy

The programme identifies a range of graduate roles that alumni pursue. The most commonly cited pathways include roles in industry, research laboratories and applied technical services.

Hands‑on research experience, prize‑winning student grant activity and exposure to experimental techniques help prepare graduates for professional employment or further study. Alumni with strong computational and laboratory training are well placed to enter technical roles in instrumentation, imaging and applied research sectors, or to continue to postgraduate study in physics and astronomy disciplines.