Majors + Minors

The Department of Physics prepares students for a broad range of careers in physics, applied physics, astronomy, finance, management, medicine and a variety of related fields. A quantitative approach to problem solving is taught which is just as relevant to financial analysis or bio-engineering as it is a research career in physics. We aim to promote scientific literacy among the general public directly through our classes for non-majors and indirectly by encouraging majors to consider careers in education.

BS Physics

The Bachelor of Science degree program is designed for those advancing to a graduate program in physics or related fields.

BA Physics

The Bachelor of Arts degree program allows the upper division major more freedom in selecting a course sequence. The only restriction, beyond individual course prerequisites, is that 8 of the 42 upper division physics units required for the degree be made up of advanced laboratory courses.

Physics Minor

All courses applied to the Physics minor must be taken for a letter grade. A minimum grade point average of 2.0 is required for minor requirements. Five units may overlap between your major and the minor. Physics majors may not apply for the Physics minor.

Astronomy & Planetary Science Minor

All courses applied towards the Astronomy and Planetary Science minor must be taken for a letter grade. A minimum grade point average of 2.0 is required for minor requirements. Five units may overlap between your major and the minor. Students pursuing an Astrophysics concentration may not apply for the Astronomy & Planetary Science minor.