Physics, BS
Program Description
Physics is concerned with the nature, structure and interactions of matter and radiation.
The BS degree program in physics provides students a solid foundation in physical science and mathematics, which is appropriate for further graduate study in physics, other sciences or engineering programs.
In addition to the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit the college's website for more information and requirements.
Required Courses (Major Map)
What if: See how your courses can be applied to another major and find out how to change your major.
At a Glance: program details
- Location: Tempe campus, or online
- Additional Program Fee: Yes
- Second Language Requirement: No
- First Required Math Course: MAT 270 - Calculus w/Analytic Geometry I
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Math Intensity:
Substantial
Admission Requirements
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
Freshman Transfer International Readmission
Transfer Options
ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use the Transfer Map search to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.
ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and help students save time and money in their college journey. Students may learn more about these programs by visiting the admission site: https://admission.asu.edu/transfer/pathway-programs.
Change of Major Requirements
Current ASU students wishing to change their major to physics should have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 (scale is 4.00 = "A") for all critical classes they have completed.
Students should refer to https://changingmajors.asu.edu for information about how to change a major to this program.
Flexible Degree Options
Accelerated program options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years.
It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's and master's degree with:
Materials Science and Engineering, MS
Website | Locations: TEMPE,ONLNE
Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. During their junior year, eligible students will be advised by their academic departments to apply.
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Career Outlook
The broad range of applicability of the principles of physics gives the physicist great flexibility in a choice of career or further education. About half of the graduates with a bachelor's degree in physics go on to graduate school in:
- astronomy
- engineering
- medicine
- physics
Others go directly into employment in areas such as:
- business
- computer software
- education
- engineering
- materials science
Example Careers
Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:
Astronomer
- Growth: 4.6%
- Median Salary*: $128,330
Engineering Manager
- Growth: 4.1%
- Median Salary*: $159,920
Materials Engineer
- Growth: 5.1%
- Median Salary*: $100,140
Nuclear Engineer
- Growth: 1.1%
- Median Salary*: $122,480
Physicist
- Growth: 4.7%
- Median Salary*: $142,850
Physics Professor
- Growth: 3.8%
- Median Salary*: $86,550
Radiologist
- Growth: 3.6%
- Median Salary*: $0
Scientist/Biochemist
- Growth: 6.7%
- Median Salary*: $103,810
Technical Writer
- Growth: 6.9%
- Median Salary*: $79,960
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
Global Opportunities
Global Experience
With over 250 programs in more than 65 countries (ranging from one week to one year), study abroad is possible for all ASU students wishing to gain global skills and knowledge in preparation for a 21st-century career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation, and may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. https://mystudyabroad.asu.edu
Attend Online
ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program description and request more information here.
Program Contact Information
If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.