JumpStart Physics is a Summer School course designed to prepare students to confidently undertake the PHSI 191 Biological Physics course, which forms part of Health Sciences First Year (HSFY) at the University of Otago.
The course is specifically tailored for students whose secondary school preparation in physics and mathematics is incomplete, particularly those who have not taken Year 12 (NCEA Level 2) Physics.
JumpStart Physics is a not-for-credit course. It cannot be used towards a university degree or to apply for a student loan, and the tuition fee is not eligible for StudyLink support. Students undertaking JumpStart Physics must still meet the University’s general admission and entrance requirements in order to proceed to full credit study.
The course is intensive, interactive, and full time, running daily from 9am to 4pm for three weeks prior to semester 1. There is also a compulsory online component that must be completed before the on-campus course begins. Due to the intensity of the programme, JumpStart Physics cannot be taken concurrently with another Summer School paper.
Course dates
26 January – 13 February 2026
Cost
NZ$990 for domestic students
NZ$1570 for international students
Restrictions and prerequisites
Students who have achieved any of the following will require approval from the head of department to enrol:
- 14 or more credits in NCEA Level 2 Physics or General Science
- A pass in Sixth Form Certificate Physics or Science
- A pass in an equivalent qualification, such as Cambridge International AS Level Physics
There are no formal prerequisites for this course.
Scholarships
A limited number of scholarships are available, including:
Eligibility criteria and contact details are provided on the relevant application forms.
Accommodation
During the Summer School period, accommodation is available at one of the residential colleges. Students should consult the Summer School website for details. The Department of Physics does not arrange accommodation for JumpStart Physics students.
Further information