Applied Physics, B.S.

On Campus

Applied Physics is devoted to the study and understanding of nature. Considered the most fundamental science, it deals with the constituents, properties, and evolution of the entire universe, from the smallest subatomic particles to the largest galaxies.

At the School of Engineering, our BS in Applied Physics students study physics while working directly alongside engineers. That relationship provides lasting value, as graduates learn to adapt their careers to existing opportunities. You’re encouraged to explore your interests in such fields as entrepreneurship, biophysics, or biomedical instrumentation. Integrated circuit electronics, scanning probe metrology, and computational science are also options. Best of all, your explorations can propel you toward a dual degree, particularly in subjects such as electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and chemistry.

With a strong foundation in physics, many of our students go on to pursue advanced studies at the master’s level. Many of our graduates seek positions within and beyond the sciences, in fields that include law, writing, and business. Others find a career in disciplines that rely on a solid foundation in physics, be it in industry, government, or education.

Curriculum

You must complete 128 credits, as defined below, to graduate from the School of Engineering with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics. Please note that the curriculum that follows applies to students who began classes in the fall of 2020 or later. If students entered the School of Engineering prior to that date, please consult the curriculum and typical course schedule for students entering spring 2020 or earlier.

The Department of Applied Physics also offers a Minor in Applied Physics. View a full list of the department's undergraduate offerings.

Core Physics Requirements (37 Credits)

PH-UY 1002 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
PH-UY 1013 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
PH-UY 2023 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
PH-UY 2033 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
PH-UY 2104 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
PH-UY 2121 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
PH-UY 2131 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
PH-UY 2344 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
PH-UY 3002 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
PH-UY 3234 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
PH-UY 3801 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
PH-UY 4124 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
PH-UY 4912 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
PH-GY 6673 Please refer to the bulletin for more information

Other Required Courses (37 Credits)

MA-UY 1024 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
MA-UY 1124 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
MA-UY 2034 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
MA-UY 2114 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
MA-UY 2224 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
CS-UY 1114 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
EXPOS-UA 1 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
EXPOS-UA 2 Please refer to the bulletin for more information
EG-UY 1001 Please refer to the bulletin for more information

Both of these:

CM-UY 1003 Please refer to the bulletin for more information

CM-UY 1001 Please refer to the bulletin for more information

Or both of these:

CM-UY 1013 Please refer to the bulletin for more information

CM-UY 1011 Please refer to the bulletin for more information

Physics and Math Electives (20 Credits)

You should select 5 physics elective courses totaling at least 16 credits, and at least 4 credits of math.

Electives in the Humanities and Social Sciences (16 Credits)

You must take 16 elective credits in the humanities and social sciences, preferably with EXPOS-UA 2 as a prerequisite. To gain some breadth and depth of knowledge, it is required that you take courses in at least two disciplines and at least one course at an advanced level.

STEM & Free Electives, Project and Independent Study (18 Credits)

You should take 18 credits of independent study, STEM and free electives. It is strongly recommended that you use 6 of these credits toward a senior project or thesis topic. The program adviser must approve electives selected from other disciplines.

Sample Course Schedule

This typical course schedule provides guidance to students as to how they would normally be expected to complete the degree requirements. Students should be sure to consult their advisor before selecting courses for a particular semester as prerequisites and course offering patterns are the primary considerations affecting registration. This sequence applies to students who begin classes in the fall of 2020 and onwards. If you entered the School of Engineering prior to that date, please review the curriculum and typical course schedule for students entering prior to fall 2020.