Physics, BS
At a Glance: program details
- Location: Tempe campus, or online
- Additional Program Fee: No
- Second Language Requirement: No
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Math Intensity:
Substantial
- Initial Math Course: MAT 270 - Calculus w/Analytic Geometry I
Required Courses (Major Map)
Program Description
Physics is concerned with the nature, structure and interactions of matter and radiation. In the BS program in physics, students develop general problem-solving skills that enable them to interpret and solve new problems covering virtually any phenomenon in the physical universe, including classical or quantum systems, electric or magnetic behavior, and thermal or statistical physics.
The BS program in physics provides a solid foundation in physical science and mathematics, and prepares students for further graduate study in physics, other sciences or engineering programs.
In addition to reviewing 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.
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 who wish to change their major to physics should have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 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
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 wide variety in applicability of the principles of physics allows for great flexibility in a choice of career or further education.
Graduates with a Bachelor of Science in physics possess analytical and technical skills suitable for employment in areas such as data analytics, education, engineering, finance, information technology, materials science, science communication and more.
Graduates are also prepared for admission to graduate school or advanced study in astronomy, engineering, mathematics, medicine and physics.
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:
Astronomers
- Growth: 4.6%
- Median Salary*: 128330
Architectural and Engineering Managers
- Growth: 4.1%
- Median Salary*: 159920
Nuclear Engineers
- Growth: 1.1%
- Median Salary*: 122480
Physicists
- Growth: 4.7%
- Median Salary*: 142850
Physics Teachers, Postsecondary
- Growth: 3.8%
- Median Salary*: 86550
Radiologists
- Growth: 3.6%
- Median Salary*: 0
Biochemists and Biophysicists
- Growth: 6.7%
- Median Salary*: 103810
Technical Writers
- Growth: 6.9%
- Median Salary*: 79960
* 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
Students gain valuable experience through study abroad, experience that enhances their resumes. With more than 300 programs available in a variety of countries around the world, study abroad allows students majoring in physics to tailor their experience to their unique interests and skill sets.
Graduates who possess the heightened cultural competency, leadership and critical thinking skills they acquired when studying abroad may stand out in a competitive field.
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.
- physics.undergrad@asu.edu
- 480/965-3561