Physics and Astronomy

Program Description

Students who complete one year of general science at Keyano College can apply for admission to an honours or specialization degree in Physics and related disciplines at the University of Alberta. Such a route is often taken by students who are uncertain about the future direction of their studies, and a general first year allows for maximum flexibility. Admission to Physics degree programs is contingent on the student achieving a minimum grade of C- in all courses taken at Keyano, though much higher grades will improve the student’s prospects. Students contemplating this route should not do so without contacting the Chair or a Student Advisor at Keyano College. Students are also strongly advised to consult with their Physics & Astronomy instructor for subject-specific guidance.

Admission Requirements

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Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of a one year course of study, students will be eligible to apply for admission to second year in the Faculty of Science at the University of Alberta as science transfer students. Transfer to other institutions may also be possible, but students should consult the Chair or a Student Advisor.

Program Structure

A student considering transfer to an honours program from Keyano College should begin by satisfying the requirements of a first year in a General Science degree at the University of Alberta, making course selections in support of a Major and Minor subject or Area of Concentration. When selecting courses, students should consider co-requisites and prerequisites required. This course selection will allow a student to apply for admission to a second year honours program as a science transfer student.

Suggested 1 year pattern:

6 credits Junior English

6 credits COMSC, MATH, STAT

6 credits CHEM, PHYS

6 credits BIOL, EAS, PSYCH 104

6 credits Arts or Science Electives (students interested in a Business minor should take ECON 101 and ECON 102)

Keyano College offers small class sizes and easy access to instructors outside classroom hours, both of which can present significant advantages to the motivated science student.

A student who wishes to apply for admission to an honours program in the area of physics and astronomy at the University of Alberta should make the most of the opportunities available at Keyano College. Though a minimum grade of C- in each transfer course and related low GPA is considered acceptable for admission as a science transfer student at the University of Alberta (on the assumption that a motivated student should be given every opportunity to redirect his or her studies), this should not be considered a desirable outcome. If a student discovers a love for physics, astronomy, astrophysics, or any other sub-branch of physics, then every effort should be made to excel in the first year physics and mathematics courses at Keyano. All honours physics students are expected to show great skill in both practical and theoretical areas. A good way to prepare for this is to aim to excel in calculus and physics, and especially in the laboratory component of your physics courses. Depending on the student’s interests (for example, condensed matter physics), it would also be wise to take a complete offering of chemistry courses while at Keyano College.

Transferability

Students intending to transfer to other institutions should consult the receiving institution as standards may vary.

Transfer information on each course is available at the Alberta Council on Admissions and Transfers.

Programs