Program Overview

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Physics Education

Understand the field of science that deals with matter, energy, and mathematics while getting trained to teach it to others.

Types

• Bachelor

Location

• On-Campus

Credits

• 54*

Cost

• $9,875

Overview

Physicists understand that physics runs the world. You have a passion for mathematics as applied in the world of physics; bring that world to life for students of your own with the training you receive in this physics education degree program from University of the Cumberlands! Topics that will be covered in this degree include classical physics, theory, nuclear physics, quantum physics, chemistry, calculus, astronomy, and much more. You will gain skills in critical thinking, problem solving, and experimental physics – and that’s all on top of the experience you’ll get in your education classes, teaching you how to be a competent and caring educator.

By the Numbers

• $61,820: Average Salary
• 5%: Industry Growth
• #2: in KY, Education Degrees
• 100%: Accredited, EPSB, CAED

Programs & Requirements

General Education Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education Physics Teaching

Required Courses (17 hours)

• PHYS 241 - Physics I
• PHYS 242 - Physics II
• PHYS 335 - Quantum Physics
• PHYS 340 - Classical Physics
• PHYS 410 - Ethics in Science
• PHYS 419 - Physics Capstone

Physics Theory Courses (12 hours)

• PHYS 430 - Classical Mechanics
• PHYS 431 - Electromagnetism
• PHYS 435 - Quantum Mechanics
• PHYS 439 - Applications of Nuclear Physics
• PHYS 490 - Selected Topics in Physics

Physics Experiment Courses (7 hours)

• PHYS 312 - Experimental Design and Analysis
• PHYS 332 - Experimental Physics I
• PHYS 432 - Experimental Physics II

Required Mathematics Courses (15 hours)

• MATH 140 - Calculus I
• MATH 240 - Calculus II
• MATH 241 - Calculus III
• MATH 430 - Differential Equations

Required IT Course (3 hours)

• ITSS 131 - Introduction to Object Oriented Programming

Required Professional Education Courses (42 hours)

• COMM 230 - Introduction to Public Speaking
• EDUC 130 - Technology in the P-12 Classroom
• EDUC 235 - Basic Concepts Concerning Education
• EDUC 237 - Effective Teaching Practices
• PSYC 232 - Child and Adolescent Development
• PSYC 238 - Educational Psychology
• SOWK 436 - Human Diversity in a Global Society
• SPED 233 - Survey of Individuals with Exceptionalities (P-12)

Program Mission

The mission of the physics education program at University of the Cumberlands is to train competent educators through innovative exploration, rigorous academics, advantageous opportunities, and hands-on experience in the laboratory.

Cultivate critical-thinking skills

Apply physical principles

Develop skills in experimental physics

Expand knowledge in mathematics

Recognize your professional and ethical responsibilities

Physics Education Careers & Outcomes

• High School Teacher: $86,550
• Physicist: $142,850
• Physics Professor: $86,550
• Natural Sciences Manager: $137,900
• Statistician: $96,280
• Biophysicist: $102,270

Common Questions

• What is a physics education degree?
• How long does a physics education degree take?
• Can I get a physics education degree online?
• Is a physics education degree worth it?
• What can I do with a physics education degree?
• How to get a physics education degree?
• Can you teach with a physics education degree?
• How many years of college do you need to be a physics teacher?
• How many observation hours will I have to get?

Faculty Experts in Physics

• Amy Bowman
• Debbie Pierce
• Kenny Siler