Program Overview

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Physics

Bachelor of Science

Overview

Study physics to gain a broad knowledge base and a problem-solving skill set that is in demand across a variety of exciting industries. Physics is the study of matter and energy and how they interact. Students seeking a Bachelor of Science in Physics study topics such as computational physics, electricity and magnetism, quantum theory and scientific computing. They also gain expertise in calculus and other advanced math courses to develop critical thinking and reasoning skills they can apply to their physics courses and future careers. Graduates with a B.S. in Physics can pursue advanced degrees in a variety of subjects or hit the job market directly, seeking work in lab or research settings in both public and private sectors.

Learning Outcomes

• Basic Physics Knowledge; Physics majors will demonstrate significant knowledge of the theories that form the basis of classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, and thermodynamics.
• Critical Thinking; Physics majors will design and conduct experiments in order to investigate physical phenomena. They will document, analyze and critically interpret the results of these experiments.
• Skills for Physics; Physics majors will use mathematical or computational skills in order to investigate physical phenomena.
• Communication; Physics majors will effectively communicate their results through written reports and oral presentations.

Program Details

Sample Courses

• PHYS 371: Quantum Theory I
• PHYS 305: Computational Physics
• PHYS 426: Thermal and Statistical Physics

Career Fields

• Manufacturing
• Finance
• Government
• Defense
• Energy

Level of Math

Substantial Knowledge

This strand involves skill and facility with calculus. The S-strand begins at one of two calculus options - MATH 122A/B (Functions for Calculus and First-Semester Calculus) or MATH 125 (Calculus I). Students who successfully complete the S-strand may continue on to MATH 129 (Calculus II), MATH 223 (Vector Calculus), or beyond. Those who choose but are not ready to begin the S-strand will be required to take preparatory work.

Level of Second Language

2nd Semester Proficiency

Second-semester skill level in a second language is required. Non-B.A. degree students may fulfill this requirement with one of the following options: 1. Scoring the equivalent of second-semester skill level on an entrance or placement examination administered by The University of Arizona. 2. Completion with a C or better of a second semester course at the post-secondary level. 3. An AP (Advanced Placement), IB (International Baccalaureate) or CLEP (College Level Entrance Program) language score determined by the individual language department. 4. In the College of Engineering by a method determined within the College; however, all students in the college must also take a language placement examination on entrance to the University.

Pre-major Required?

No

This Major's College

College of Science

Degree

Bachelor of Science

Sample Plans

2025, Physics

• 4-Year Sample Plan
• Map Transfer Coursework

First Year

1st Semester

• MATH 122A - Calculus I
• MATH 122B - Calculus I
• ENGL 101 - First Year Composition I
• Second Language
• Introduction to the General Education Experience (Entry Course)

2nd Semester

• MATH 129 - Calculus II
• PHYS 161H - Introductory Mechanics
• Second Language
• ENGL 102 - First Year Composition II
• GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections

Second Year

3rd Semester

• MATH 223 - Vector Calculus
• PHYS 162H - Introductory Optics & Thermodynamics
• CSC 110 or ECE 101 or ECE 175 or PHYS 105A
• GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections

4th Semester

• MATH 254 - Introduction to Differential Equations
• PHYS 261H - Introductory Electricity & Magnetism
• PHYS 263H - Introductory Relativity & Quantum Physics
• GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
• GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections

Third Year

5th Semester

• PHYS 204 - Mathematical Techniques in Physics
• PHYS 305 - Computational Physics
• PHYS 321 - Theoretical Mechanics
• GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
• Elective

6th Semester

• PHYS 331 - Electricity & Magnetism II
• PHYS 371 - Quantum Theory I
• Physics Elective #1
• Upper-Division Elective
• Upper-Division Elective

Fourth Year

7th Semester

• PHYS 332 - Electricity & Magnetism II
• Physics Elective #2
• PHYS 381 - Advanced Lab I
• PHYS Research (492 or 498 or 498H)
• General Education Portfolio (Exit Course)

8th Semester

• PHYS 426 - Thermal Physics
• PHYS 472 - Quantum Theory II
• PHYS 382 - Advanced Lab II
• PHYS Research (492 or 498 or 498H)
• Elective

About the Transfer Mapping Categories

Maps to One Requirement

A transfer course with this designation matches a UAZ course that maps to one requirement for this major.

Can Map in Multiple Ways

A transfer course with this designation matches a UAZ course that maps to more than one requirement for this major. This means that the transfer course could meet any of the matching requirements but does not mean it fulfills all matching requirements.

Ask an Advisor

A transfer course with this designation matches a UAZ course that has not yet been mapped to a requirement for this major, or it means that the transfer course was input incorrectly.