Physics Major (BA)

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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 BA version of the 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.

Major Requirements

One of the following:

Electives (choose four):

At least one elective must be numbered 5930 or higher.

Note

Students pursuing the BA in physics who complete BOTH CHEM 3550 - Thermochemistry and CHEM 3560 - Quantum Chemistry may count them toward the physics major in place of PHYS 3540 and PHYS 3750.

3+2 Dual Degree Program with Washington University

Through Hamline’s partnership with Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, students have the opportunity to earn a dual degree in physics (Hamline University) and engineering (Washington University). See Pre-Engineering for more information.