Overall SDG Alignment Evaluation:
The Master of Science Program in Physics is fundamentally designed to produce researchers with deep expertise capable of creating new knowledge and innovations that are internationally recognized. The curriculum's strong emphasis on materials science, nanotechnology, and condensed matter physics makes it a powerful engine for SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). Research in these areas drives the development of new technologies that are critical for sustainable industrialization. The program is also a cornerstone for achieving SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) through its dedicated courses on the physics of energy and solar cells, directly contributing to the advancement of clean energy technologies. Furthermore, by training a new generation of scientists and promoting advanced research, the program is a flagship for SDG 4 (Quality Education) and fosters the global collaborations essential for SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Its relevance to atmospheric physics also supports efforts under SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
SDG 4: Quality EducationAlignment Summary: As a master's program, this curriculum represents a high level of quality education. It is designed to cultivate expert researchers and academics by providing advanced training in research methodologies and fostering a culture of lifelong learning, thereby contributing to the creation of new knowledge for sustainable development.
| Course Code | Course Title | Alignment Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| SC 118 801 | Research Methods in Physics | Provides the core research skills that define high-quality graduate education, equipping students for high-level employment and lifelong learning in scientific research (Target 4.3 and 4.4). |
| SC 118 89X | Seminar in Physics / Thesis / Independent Study | These courses are capstone lifelong learning opportunities (Target 4.3) where students engage with the scientific community and conduct original research, acquiring superior technical and professional skills (Target 4.4). |
SDG 7: Affordable and Clean EnergyAlignment Summary: The program is a major driver for the transition to affordable and clean energy. It offers deep expertise in the fundamental physics of energy systems, solar cells, and advanced materials for energy storage and conversion, directly contributing to the research and development of clean energy technologies.
| Course Code | Course Title | Alignment Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| SC 117 711 | Physics of Energy | Directly supports clean energy research and technology (Target 7.A) by providing a deep understanding of the physical principles behind various energy sources and conversion methods. |
| SC 117 712 | Physics of Solar Cells | Focuses on expanding clean energy infrastructure by training experts in a key renewable energy technology, directly supporting Target 7.2. |
| SC 117 726 | Materials for Energy Storage and Conversion | Contributes to ensuring access to affordable and reliable energy (Target 7.1) by focusing on the development of materials for batteries and other energy storage systems. |
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and InfrastructureAlignment Summary: This program is a catalyst for innovation in a wide range of industries. By providing advanced training in materials science, computational methods, and nanotechnology, it enhances scientific research and upgrades the technological capabilities of sectors focused on electronics, energy, and advanced manufacturing.
| Course Code | Course Title | Alignment Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| SC 117 721 | Advanced Materials Physics | Drives innovation by providing a deep understanding of the properties of materials, which is fundamental to developing new industrial technologies (Target 9.5). |
| SC 117 722 | Computational Materials Science | Enhances scientific research (Target 9.5) by applying computational methods to design and discover new materials with industrial applications. |
| SC 117 725 | Characterization of Materials | Supports industrial innovation by training experts in the techniques used to analyze and improve materials for manufacturing processes (Target 9.4). |
| SC 117 727 | Nanomaterials Science and Nanotechnology | Fosters innovation in high-tech industries by providing expertise in a cutting-edge field with vast potential for developing new products and technologies (Target 9.5). |
| SC 117 728 | Surface and Thin Film Physics | Contributes to upgrading the technological capabilities of the electronics and coatings industries (Target 9.4). |
| SC 117 732 | Advanced Solid State Physics | Provides the fundamental knowledge for innovation in the semiconductor and electronics industries (Target 9.5). |
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and CommunitiesAlignment Summary: The program contributes to creating sustainable cities by training experts who can analyze and model atmospheric phenomena. This knowledge is crucial for understanding and mitigating urban air pollution, contributing to healthier and more resilient urban environments.
| Course Code | Course Title | Alignment Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| SC 117 714 | Atmospheric Physics | Directly addresses Target 11.6 by focusing on reducing the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality through the study of atmospheric processes. |
SDG 13: Climate ActionAlignment Summary: The program contributes to climate action by fostering the scientific understanding of Earth's atmosphere. The study of atmospheric physics is essential for improving climate models, educating the public about climate change, and strengthening institutional capacity for climate action.
| Course Code | Course Title | Alignment Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| SC 117 714 | Atmospheric Physics | Directly supports Target 13.3 by improving education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning. |
SDG 17: Partnerships for the GoalsAlignment Summary: The program's international scope and research-intensive nature foster partnerships for sustainable development. Through seminars and research, students engage with the global scientific community, promoting the knowledge-sharing and collaborations needed to achieve global scientific and technological goals.
| Course Code | Course Title | Alignment Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| SC 118 891/892 | Seminar in Physics I/II | Promotes the global partnership for sustainable development (Target 17.6) by requiring students to engage with and present on international research, fostering a culture of global knowledge-sharing. |