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 designed 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 their choices remain open for further study while pursuing a bachelor’s degree.
The BS version of the 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 provides a breadth of science education. BS students have the option to pursue a concentration in Innovation & Engineering or Energy & Environmental Science.
