Message From Physics Coordinator

Dr. Martin Mule Mutie (Ph.D)

Physics Coordinator
The Physics section falls under the Department of Physical Sciences, in the Faculty of Science  and Technology, of Chuka University. Robust programs, that prepare an all rounded graduate coupled with interaction with state of the art laboratory equipment, ensure that our graduates are well prepared for the job market and industry. Physics gives students the opportunity to observe measure, analyze and draw relevant conclusions about phenomena around them.    
GOALS OF UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMMES IN PHYSICS

    • Develop the student’s ability to engage in analytical and critical thought and expression
    • Develop a creative and versatile person to functioning as a productive member of profession and society
    • Prepare graduates to teach in schools, teacher training colleges and other institutions.
    • Impart experimental and technical skills for proficiency in his/her chosen career
    • Provide the basics for students interested in pursuing post-graduate studies in Physics.
PROGRAMMES

The sections offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes as shown below:

  1. BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PHYSICS 

This program prepares a graduate who will contribute to technological advancement in applications such as computer architecture, wireless telephony, optic fibre communication, material science, advances in medical equipment, imaging techniques and weather forecasting amongst many others in Kenya and all over the world. There is a limited number of well-trained personnel in physics and related fields, who are needed in the aforementioned applications. Graduates of this program are therefore on high demand by the job market in this field.

2. BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING PHYSICS

This program fills the gap between pure and applied science. Engineering physicists    perform research and development in high-technology industries in the fields of telecommunications, microelectronics and microdevices, lasers and novel materials. Additionally through the broad and thorough training provided in fundamentals and applied technology, graduates can explore other fields, such as biotechnology, nanotechnology, communications technology, computer design, and software development. Graduates can also enter into advanced degree programs to conduct research, and instruct the next generation of physicists. Graduates have the opportunity to specialize in either Fundamental Engineering physics, Biological Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering or Mechanical Engineering.

3. BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN APPLIED GEOPHYSICS

This program aims to train human resource that meets the development needs of the country and international labour market, sustain production of quality and relevant research; disseminate knowledge, skills, values and competencies for the advancement of humanity. The program is designed to combat shortage of professionals trained in Applied Geophysics in this country, Africa region and the world at large. The graduates are equipped with techniques of analysis, knowledge, skills, attitudes, and experiences that prepare them to face challenges in the fields of Geophysics. At the end of the program the  will undertake a quantitative and qualitative approach to acquiring, analysing and interpreting Geophysical data,

4. MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PHYSICS

The goal of this program is to provide learners with a wide range of knowledge and skills in physics for the purpose of research, training, innovation, job creation and commercialization of technology.

Areas of specialization

  • Condensed matter physics
  • Material science
  • Electronics
  • Geophysics
  • Nuclear physics
  • Theoretical physics
  • Computational physics

5. MASTER OF SCIENCE IN MEDICAL PHYSICS

Medical technology for both diagnostic and therapeutic procedures is one of the corner stones of contemporary medicine. As a result, there is a high demand for suitably educated and trained specialists in medical physics worldwide. The program offers an exceptionally well-balanced education, combining classroom, laboratory, and clinical training. Medical Physicists will contribute to maintaining and improving the quality, safety and cost-effectiveness of healthcare services through patient-oriented activities requiring expert action, involvement or advice regarding the specification, selection, acceptance testing, commissioning, quality assurance/control and optimised clinical use of medical devices and regarding patient risks and protection from associated physical agents (e.g., x-rays, electromagnetic fields, laser light, radionuclides) including the prevention of unintended or accidental exposures. All activities will be based on current best evidence or own scientific research when the available evidence is not sufficient. 

6. DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN PHYSICS

The rapidly changing highly technological world in which we live in today requires a work force that is equipped to modify and utilise the technology in order to attain the desired level of development anticipated by most world economies. Indeed many development blueprints have been anchored on technological advancement with industrialization being one of the major milestones. A PhD in Physics is geared towards developing a highly knowledgeable and skilled professional in generating innovations, application of principles and new technologies in industry especially in the chosen area of specialization. The research project may be laboratory-based, field or modelling studies at the micro and macroscopic scales in theoretical physics, electronics, solid state physics, material science, nuclear physics, or geophysics.

Areas of specialization

  • Condensed matter physics
  • Material science
  • Electronics
  • Geophysics
  • Nuclear physics
  • Theoretical physics
  • Computational physics

7. DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN MEDICAL PHYSICS

A PhD in medical Physics is geared towards developing a highly knowledgeable and skilled professional in generating innovations, application of principles and new technologies in the medical sector. The PhD research project may be; laboratory-based, field or modeling studies.

Upcoming 

BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY IN MINERAL EXPLORATION AND MINING TECHNOLOGY 

The graduate from this program will gain skills that will enable them to design, develop, reclaim, and manage mines that are profitable, safe, and environmentally acceptable. Successful completion of the curriculum qualifies the student for a professional career in development and valuation of mineral properties, design and management of mine systems, or research and consulting. The program is designed to combat shortage of professionals trained in mining field in this country, Africa region and the world at large. The curriculum is also designed to provide interdisciplinary approaches for training mining scientists who can work competitively in all fields and areas in the sector

MASTERS OF SCIENCE IN ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS 

Graduates from this programme will have skills to work in areas such as Satellite Space Stations (e.g. San Marco in Malindi), Astronomical Observatories, Geodesy and Remote Sensing. The philosophy of the programme is to foster excellence in Space Sciences and Astrophysics observations; creativity and innovation, academic freedom, professionalism and integrity through quality scholarship and research.