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Students
Tuition Fee
Start Date
Medium of studying
Duration
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Bachelors
Major
Physics
Area of study
Natural Science
Course Language
English
About Program

Program Overview


Physics

College

College of Arts and Sciences


Department

Physics


Majors

  • Physics BA
  • Physics BS
  • Physics BA - Teaching of Science Physics and Chemistry Concentration
  • Physics BA - Teaching of Science Physics Concentration
  • Mathematical Physics BS

Combined

  • Physics BA -Teaching of Science Physics and Chemistry/Physics Adolescent Education EdM
  • Physics BA - Teaching of Science Physics Concentration/Physics Adolescent Education EdM

Minor

  • Physics Minor

What will I learn?

As a physics major, you’ll take courses in chemistry and mathematics, along with classes covering classical mechanics, electricity, magnetism, thermal and statistical physics, quantum mechanics and relativity.


At UB, we try hard to take the friction out of learning. Demonstration-filled lectures show concepts in action, while hands-on labs give you experience with circuits, forces and other topics, to help you fully understand the underlying phenomena.


Physics BA vs. BS

  • The BA is for students who enjoy physics, but also want a broad education (or may want to be a secondary school teacher).
  • The BS is for students who want to be professional physicists, and is recommended for those considering graduate school.

What can I do outside of class?

At UB, our students are always in motion. Many of them work with faculty on research (yes, even as undergrads). These projects may be theory-based or experiment-based, and cover a range of subjects, such as biological physics, condensed matter physics and high-energy physics.


You can get involved with student clubs and professional organizations, where you’ll be able to make new friends and connections that can help you throughout your career.


Some of our students have even gone to local schools to get elementary and middle school students excited about physics.


What can I do with a physics degree?

From improving health and safety for miners in the U.S., to doing hands-on work for the European Organization for Nuclear Research, our graduates have found success around the globe.


A degree in physics gives you momentum throughout your career and lets you work in a variety of settings, including:


  • Schools and universities. As a teacher or professor, you can work help inspire the next generation of physicists and engineers, often while conducting your own research.
  • Private companies. From computers to aerospace, many industries rely on physicists to help them create and improve products.
  • Government agencies. The U.S. Department of Energy and Department of Defense are just two of the organizations that hire physicists to develop new simulation tools, test equipment and perform other critical tasks.

Want to be a teacher?

Be prepared to teach grades 5-12 by getting your bachelor's and master's in just five years through our UB Teach program.


  • Save time and money.
  • No need to apply to graduate school.
  • Be eligible for New York State professional teaching certification.

Who will I learn from?

At UB, you’ll find exceptional physics teachers, mentors and researchers. As one student said, our faculty’s willingness to give advice and encouragement was “a real springboard that allowed me to successfully apply to Ph.D. programs.”


Our faculty have earned honors for their work from the National Science Foundation and other leading organizations, received the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching, and have been named as SUNY Distinguished Professors and American Physical Society Fellows.


Throughout the physics department, we typically have roughly an equal number of theorists (who, as the name suggests, focus on theories about physics) and experimentalists (who conduct experimental measurements to gain new knowledge).


Some majors in this program involve more than one department. To learn more about specific faculty, opportunities and other details for your major, please view the program catalog.


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University at Buffalo


Overview:

University at Buffalo (UB) is a public research university located in Buffalo, New York. It is consistently recognized as one of the world's most exceptional and affordable universities, making it a top choice for students and faculty globally. UB is New York State's flagship university and is known for its commitment to research, innovation, and community engagement.


Student Life and Campus Experience:

UB offers a vibrant campus life with over 400 student clubs and organizations. Students can enjoy Division I basketball games, kayaking on the on-campus lake, and a variety of other activities. The university encourages students to share their "True Blue" pride and wear blue on Fridays.


Key Reasons to Study There:

    Exceptional Academics:

    UB offers over 500 degree programs with world-renowned faculty.

    Research Opportunities:

    As a top 40 public research university, UB provides students with opportunities to collaborate with leading researchers and tackle complex challenges.

    Diverse and Inclusive Environment:

    UB fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for students from all backgrounds.

    Affordable Education:

    UB is consistently ranked as one of the most affordable universities in the world.

    Vibrant Campus Life:

    UB offers a wide range of activities and opportunities for students to engage in both on and off campus.

Academic Programs:

UB has 13 schools and colleges, including:

  • Architecture and Planning
  • Arts and Sciences
  • Dental Medicine
  • Education
  • Engineering and Applied Sciences
  • Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
  • Law
  • Management
  • Nursing
  • Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
  • Public Health and Health Professions
  • Roswell Park Graduate Division
  • Social Work

Other:

UB is committed to sustainability and has been recognized for its climate action efforts. The university has a 12:1 student/faculty ratio, providing students with personalized attention and support.

Total programs
452
Average ranking globally
#143
Average ranking in the country
#67
Location
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