Physics Major: BS Physics Program

The professionally oriented BS physics program serves as preparation either for graduate work in physics or for entrance into positions in a variety of industries or government service.  Students in this physics program must take all core courses and complete requirements from one of the concentrations below:

Research and Applied Physics Concentrations

• Research Concentration
  The research concentration prepares majors for further study at the graduate level.  This program trains students in logical thinking and problem solving using both analytical and computational methods.  It also furnishes students with a comprehensive understanding of the basic laws and principles that govern the physical world.  Academic assessment and GRE results keep the program up-to-date via curricular revisions.  This program is a popular stepping stone to graduate degrees not only in physics, but also in engineering, astronomy/astrophysics, and materials science.
• Applied Physics Concentration
  The applied physics concentration prepares students for immediate entry into careers in industry.  Course requirements include electronics, introduction to computer programming, and data analysis and computational physics techniques.  While rooted in the basic principles of physics, this program is optimized for students concerned with the application of physics in practical devices and systems.

Interdisciplinary Physics Concentrations

• Chemistry Concentration
  The chemistry concentration is designed for students with a strong interest in both physics and chemistry who may wish to prepare for graduate study in chemical physics or for work in a high-technology materials-related research and development laboratory.  
• Biological Sciences Concentration
  The biological sciences concentration is for students with a strong interest in both physics and biology who may wish to prepare for graduate study in biophysics or for work in a biotechnology company.  
• Computer Science Concentration
  The computer science concentration provides a foundation in physics while emphasizing the use of computer software in scientific applications.  Graduates are prepared for computer-related careers that require an understanding of the underlying science as well as knowledge of relevant computer applications.  
• Mathematical Physics Concentration
  The mathematical physics concentration provides students with a strong understanding of applied physical theory, its applications, and the underlying mathematics.  This training, valuable for start-up positions with a number of industries, may also serve as preparation for graduate work in either physics or mathematics.  
• Entrepreneurship Concentration
  The entrepreneurship concentration is designed to prepare physics majors for various aspects of starting or managing a scientific business.  
• Pre-Medicine/Pre-Osteopathy/Pre-Podiatry Concentration
  The pre-medicine/pre-osteopathy concentration is designed to prepare physics majors for further study leading to careers in medicine.

Sample Schedules are available for each concentration in the BS physics program.

Physics majors with outstanding records may be eligible for enrollment in a Combined Baccalaureate and Master's Program (BS/MA) in Physics.