BSc Physics and Philosophy at University of the Witwatersrand

Programme overview

A rigorous, interdisciplinary programme that bridges physics and philosophy, combining scientific rigour with critical thinking to tackle foundational questions. BSc in the Field of Physics and Philosophy Traditional physics programmes may provide limited space for engaging with fundamental questions (e.g., the nature of time, determinism, or the interpretation of quantum theory), while philosophy programmes may lack the technical grounding needed to rigorously address such questions. This extremely challenging course combines the empirical rigour of the sciences with the analytical skills and critical thinking of the humanities.

Faculty: Science | Department: Physics | Duration: 3 years | Study mode: full-time | Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa

What you will study

Year of Study I:; Compulsory modules:; MATH1034A; Algebra I; MATH1036A; Calculus I; PHYS1000A; Physics I (Major); PHIL1003A; Introduction to Philosophy: Knowledge and Reality I; PHIL1002A; Introduction to Ethics; One additional course yielding a minimum of 36 level I credits; ‍Year of Study II:; Compulsory modules:; PHYS2001A; Physics IIA (Major); PHYS2002A; Physics IIB (Major); MATH2001A; Basic A

Career pathways

Through a blend of theoretical and practical approaches, graduates develop a unique skill set that could lead to a diverse range of careers in technology, policy, consulting, finance, law, entrepreneurship, education, or further study in either field.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Minimum APS: 43. APS 43+ English Home Language OR First Additional Language Level 6 or ≥ 70% Mathematics and Physical Science at least 70% Wait-listing Applicants with 40-42 points may be wait-listed, subject to place availability. International Applicants National Benchmark Test All applicants to the Faculty of Science are required to write the National Benchmark Test by 31 October 2026. There are two tests: The Academic and Quantitative Literacy Test and the Mathematics Test. Both tests must be written in one session. Your test results are used in addition to your Grade 12 results to identify students who may need additional support during the course of their studies. You can register for the NBT before you submit your application to Wits. DO NOT wait for an official notification from Wits to register for and write the tests, as you may miss the end of September deadline. For test dates, registration d

Tuition is charged per module, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Postgraduate applications are made online at www.wits.ac.za/applications; the closing date for each programme is listed in its course finder entry. The application fee is R200 (not payable by current Wits students applying online), paid via the Self-Service Portal or by EFT to the Wits University Application Fees account at FNB.

Apply through the official page: https://www.wits.ac.za/applications

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