Physics Major

Print Degree Planner (opens a new window) |

Physics students may choose to complete a Bachelor of Science (BS) or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Physics.

The physics curriculum emphasizes fundamental concepts, problem analysis and solving skills, and laboratory techniques. Physics majors possess a wide variety of interests and goals. To ensure that students are adequately prepared for a variety of directions, the course offerings reflect a core set of content destined to give the student a basic understanding of contemporary experimental and theoretical physics concepts. Advanced courses explore these concepts further with a tighter focus on the problems and solutions particular to the area.

Most courses in a physics major have prerequisites. Students who are unsure of their direction within the sciences are strongly encouraged to begin in their first year with general physics so that choices remain open for further study within the time spent pursuing a bachelor’s degree.

Major Requirements: Bachelor of Science Program

This major is intended for students planning to proceed to graduate work in either physics or engineering. It focuses on both high-level physics courses and providing a breadth of science education. It is a total of 70 credits (19 courses).

Required physics courses (34 credits):

Courses outside physics (16 credits):

Advanced electives (12 credits):

Choose three courses; one of which must have a lab.

Science electives (8 credits):

Choose two courses.

Major Requirements: Bachelor of Arts Program

This major is intended for students who wish to double major in other disciplines. It is also a major that can be done in three years for those who decide late. It is a total of 54 credits (15 courses).

Required physics courses (22 credits):

Courses outside physics (16 credits):

Elective courses (16 credits):

Choose four; one must be 5000-level.

Note:

Students pursuing the BA in physics who complete BOTH Physical Chemistry I and II (CHEM 3550 and CHEM 3560) may count them toward the physics major in place of PHYS 3540 and PHYS 3750.