Program Requirements

If you are pursuing a degree in physics, you must meet the below requirements to be eligible for graduation. Also, you must complete the general education program, fulfill the general baccalaureate degree requirements and complete at least 120 hours of course work.

The Bachelor of Science degree in physics is a comprehensive degree, so a minor or second major is not required to complete the degree. Visit the Courses Offered by Department page for complete course listings and descriptions.

Physics (Comprehensive)

Bachelor of Science

Major requirements (65-69 hours):

Major core (56 hours):
  1. Specific General Education requirement: ENG 321(3).
  2. PHY 110(2), 203(5), 204(5), 291(3), 319(3), 325(3), 333(3), 343(3), 353(3), 375(3), 385(2).
  3. PHY 386(1) and 486(1), or PHY 496(2).
  4. Related requirements: MTH 261(5), 280(5), 302(3), 303(3).
  5. Public Affairs Capstone Experience will be fulfilled by completion of PHY 385(2) and, either PHY 386(1) and 486(1), or 496(2).
Complete one of the following option (9-13 hours):
Astronomy and Astrophysics option (13 hours):
  1. AST 113(3), 114(4) or 115(4).
  2. Two courses from: AST 311(3), 313(3), 315(3), 317(3).
Career Prep Physics option (9 hours):
  1. PHY 351(3).
  2. Either PHY 575(3) or MAT 540(3).
  3. Three hours of 400 or 500 level PHY, MAT, or CHM coursework.
Materials Physics option (12 hours):
  1. MAT 540(3), 550(3), 580(3).
  2. PHY 575(3).
Teaching Prep Physics option (13 hours):
  1. AST 115(4), GRY 108(3).
  2. Six hours from any 300 or 400 or 500 level courses from AST, MAT or PHY coursework.

University level requirements:

  1. General Education Program and Requirements
  2. General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements

Taking measurements in the lab, wearing safety goggles