Program Overview

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Engineering Physics

Engineering physics provides a grounding in the understanding of the fundamental nature of the forces and particles and the resultant states of matter that make up the physical world. Studying physics strengthens quantitative reasoning and problem-solving skills that are valuable in areas beyond physics because students learn how to analyze complex problems, giving them a strong quantitative background that can be applied in any technical field.

Program Type and Format

• The program type is a Major, BS.
• The format is On-Campus.

Bachelor of Science in Physics - Engineering Physics Emphasis

The BS in Physics with an Emphasis in Engineering Physics is designed to prepare students for a professional career in engineering, physics, or applied physics, or for graduate studies in engineering physics or a related field. Other emphasis areas offered include:

• Astrophysics
• Biophysics
• General Physics

Students seeking to major in physics are designated as 'pre-physics majors' until they have completed both Physics 2111 and Physics 2112 (or equivalent courses) with grades of C- or better.

Outcomes and Career Outlook

Upon completion of the BS in Physics, with an Emphasis in Engineering Physics, graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of basic physics concepts including classical mechanics, electricity, magnetism, thermal and statistical physics, quantum mechanics, and modern electronics.
• Design and perform basic physics experiments, assess the significance of their results, and interpret the observed outcome.
• Understand statics, dynamics, and electrical networks.
• Solve problems, think critically, and reason analytically as applied to scientific problems.
• Be proficient communicators.
• Conduct original scientific research as part of a problem-solving team.
• Identify possible errors in scientific data.
• Assess the significance of observed results.

Employment of aerospace engineers is projected to grow up to 6% by 2032, with a median annual salary of $130,720.

Career Opportunities

• Aerospace Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Educator
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Environmental Engineering
  • Materials Physics/Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering

Degree Information

Plan of Study

All majors must meet the general education requirements of the university in addition to completing degree-specific curriculum requirements.

Student Organizations and Involvement

Student Organizations

Make new friends and learn new skills by joining one of the Recognized Student Organizations, such as:

• Physics and Astronomy Club
• Student Government Association
• Students of the University of Missouri

Honors College

The UMSL Honors College is a certificate program that can be paired with any major without adding extra classes or extending time to graduate. Classes in the Honors College are seminar-style, meaning they are based in reading, writing, discussion, and critical thinking.

Undergraduate Research

Students are encouraged and supported to engage in exciting activities in and outside of the classroom that enrich their academic and professional understanding of their chosen area of study. All majors are encouraged to participate in Undergraduate Research and Scholarship to produce discipline-specific intellectual or creative innovations to their field.

Related Majors

Explore more degree options, including:

• Secondary Education-Physics
• Mechanical Engineering
• Mathematics
• Electrical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Chemistry
• General Physics

College Overview

The College of Arts and Sciences offers exciting degree programs that cover the academic spectrum from fine arts, humanities, and the social sciences, to the natural and applied sciences. An undergraduate degree from the College of Arts and Sciences provides the intellectual base for a host of career paths, advanced study, and research in many academic disciplines. Graduates are known for their professionalism on the job and their strong sense of civic responsibility.

Faculty and Research

The accomplished faculty provide students with a well-rounded, hands-on, and practical education to best prepare them for success in the modern workforce. Faculty are actively engaged in research and scholarship that advances knowledge, theory, and applied methods in their fields, providing an unparalleled academic experience.

Alumni Network

The College of Arts and Sciences has prepared tens of thousands of graduates to become influential leaders and find career success in the region, nationally, and internationally. Alumni are notable journalists, writers, public relations professionals, and leaders in private and public sectors. They are scientists, musicians, entrepreneurs, CEOs, and much more, committed to their organizations and communities, sharing a constant motivation to inspire others, drive positive change, and transform the lives of others through their everyday work.

Academic Programs and Flexibility

The College of Arts and Sciences offers 31 baccalaureate, 16 master, and seven doctoral degrees, as well as dozens of minor and certificate programs designed to get students where they want to go. With dedicated academic advisors ready to create a personalized plan to help students succeed in their academic journey, students have a clear path from start to finish. The college provides exceptional academics at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, with degree programs built to fit any schedule, whether on campus, fully online, during the evening, or weekends.