BA in Physics
The BA program is perfect for students looking for a broad overview and the flexibility to double major. Students preparing for graduate school in physics or a related field should consider the more intensive BS program.
Four Year Worksheet: Bachelor of Arts in Physics
Pre-Concentration Requirements
Before starting with the requirements for the BA degree, each student must complete the following pre-concentration requirements:
One of the following calculus sequences:
- MTH 161, 162, 164, and 165
- MTH 171, 172, 173, and 174
Three introductory physics courses*:
- PHY 121: Mechanics or PHY 141: Mechanics (Honors)
- PHY 122: Electricity and Magnetism or PHY 142: Electricity and Magetism (Honors)
- PHY 123: Waves and Modern Physics or PHY 143: Waved and Modern Physics (Honors)
*PHY 141, 142, and 143 are encouraged for Physics majors
Concentration Requirements
PHY 217: Electricity and Magnetism I
PHY 235W: Classical Mechanics
PHY 237: Quantum Mechanics of Physical Systems
One of the following:
- PHY 218: Electricity and Magnetism II
- PHY 227: Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics
- PHY 243W: Advanced Experimental Techniques I
- PHY 245W: The Advanced Nuclear Science Education Laboratory
- PHY 246: Quantum Theory
One four-credit 200-300 level physics and/or astronomy course.
Eight additional credit hours, which can be 200- or 300-level technical courses in:
- Physics
- Astronomy
- Mathematics
- Another science or engineering
At least a 2.0 (C) average in astronomy, physics and mathematics courses must be maintained. All course choices must be approved by the undergraduate physics advisor.
Note: As a general rule, graduate-level courses cannot be substituted for undergraduate core requirements. Well-prepared students can however consider taking graduate courses for which they are well prepared, as electives. Specific questions can be addressed to the Physics, or Physics and Astronomy major advisor.