Undergraduate -> Degree Programs page

Our bachelor’s degrees allow a wide range of options both for graduate school preparation and for directly moving into a job after graduation. Below are several recommended tracks. Students can also tailor their own programs, as we have many elective classes in the various degree programs.

It is desirable for students intending to major in the department, or simply wondering whether they should, to discuss their plans with one of the department’s advisors as soon as possible.  Schedule an appointment with Undergraduate Advisor, Dr. Russell Clark.

• View course requirements on the Undergraduate Studies Majors, Minors, and Certificates page.

• General Information for New Majors (PDF) »

[picture]  Graduate School Preparation 

This track gives students a broad and deep preparation suitable for going on to graduate school. Students who plan to do research in physics can choose the grad school preparation option of the BS in Physics. It includes advanced quantum mechanics and other basic theory, laboratory experience, and advanced math typically drawn on in top graduate programs in physics. Those wanting to do research in astrophysics should choose the BS in Physics and Astronomy, which emphasizes quantum mechanics less and includes a thorough grounding in astronomy methods.

[picture]  Physics and Technology

This track gives great preparation for students who want to move directly into the “high tech” industry, with exposure to semiconductor and photonics engineering methods used in communication, computing, and detector technology. It can be combined with the Photonics certificate, Nanoscience and Engineering certificate, or Quantum Computing and Quantum Information certificate.

[picture]  Biophysics 

This track gives great preparation for students who may want to move into graduate school in a biological field or medical school, but want a good grounding in physics. It also gives a good grounding in electronics and other lab methods often used in biological laboratories, for those who want to move directly into the biotech industry.

[picture]  Physics Education

The Department of Physics and Astronomy and the School of Education have collaborated to create a seamless path for undergraduate students to earn both a Bachelor of Science degree and a Master of Teaching degree within five years. This track prepares students to move directly into teaching at the high school level. Qualified science teachers are highly sought after in secondary education.

[picture]  Physics and Quantum Computing

The new major is offered in collaboration with the School of Computing and Information and includes a solid grounding in computational methods as well as cutting-edge quantum mechanics. Students with this major may move into grad school in computer science or engineering, or theoretical quantum physics. It also can prepare students to move directly into the growing quantum technology industry.

[picture]  Traditional Physics or Astronomy Degree 

A less-rigorous program in physics or astronomy can be combined with another major such as Philosophy or Communication;  it can also be complemented with other course choices that allow the student great flexibility to have good science background, while pursuing another career option such as technical writing.