Physics
When applying to the Physics program, applicants must choose between two distinct degree paths: a research-focused bachelor’s degree (bacharelado) or a teaching degree (licenciatura). The first path prepares graduates for careers in research, exploring various physical phenomena at the graduate level, in industries, or in data science. The teaching degree, on the other hand, trains future physics teachers for primary and secondary schools, as well as for non-formal and informal education settings. Each degree path has its own unique curriculum structure.
Students can take courses from both degree types, as one holds classes in the afternoon and the other in the evening. This way, after graduating from one of the degrees, they can apply for returning admission to qualify for the second degree.
In both degree paths, core courses in General Physics, Calculus and Chemistry are offered in the early stages, accompanied by laboratory practice. By the end of the program, students in the research-focused degree may develop a project in one of the department’s research groups. Students in the teaching degree, in their turn, take specific courses on Physics Teaching and engage in teaching internships in primary or secondary schools.
All Physics students are encouraged to pursue graduate studies. The master’s or doctoral degree is a requirement to work in research laboratories and institutes and to become a university professor.
The career prospects for physicists are diverse. Beyond teaching, opportunities abound in the field of medicine, particularly in specialized areas such as ultrasound and radiation, and in industries, where they contribute to the development of innovative products and machinery. With a solid foundation in mathematics and computer science, graduates also discover promising career paths in data processing and related fields.
| Program Length: 8 semesters (4 years) |
| Website: fisica.grad.ufsc.br |
| Classes held during the day or in the evening. |
