Physics

Overview

Physics programs teach students about the laws that govern matter and energy.

Physics programs include topics such as:

Classic and modern physics
Electricity and magnetism
Wave properties
Relativity and quantum theory
Laboratory methods
Use of tools such as lasers and mass spectrometers
Thermodynamics
Properties of light
Motion and kinetics

Concentrations

Students in physics programs may be able to specialize in:

Nuclear physics
Theoretical and mathematical physics
Acoustics
Optics/optical sciences
Plasma physics
Elementary particle physics
Atomic and molecular physics
Physics of condensed matter (solid-state physics)

Schools

Many community colleges and other two-year schools offer associate degree programs in physics. An associate degree usually takes two years to complete. Students may work as a lab technician with an associate degree, or transfer to a college or university for further study.

Most colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in physics. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study. A bachelor's degree prepares students for an entry-level position as a technician in engineering-related industries.

Most universities offer graduate degrees in physics. A master's degree typically requires two years of study beyond a bachelor's degree. Doctoral (PhD) degree programs usually require two or more years of study beyond the master's degree.

See schools that offer this program.

Related Educational Programs

Related Careers

Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study

Other Careers Related to this Program of Study

Program Admission

You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

Advanced Physics courses
Calculus
Chemistry
Computer Science and Programming
General Computer Applications
Physical Science
Pre-Calculus
Probability and Statistics
Science Technology and Engineering
Technical Writing
Trigonometry

Graduate Admissions

Admission to graduate programs is competitive. You need a bachelor’s degree in physics or a related science, good grades, and good test scores. If your degree is in an area other than physics, you may be required to complete certain prerequisite undergraduate physics courses.

Additional requirements at some schools include:

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Physics
Statement of research interest and personal goals
Letters of recommendation

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

This undergraduate program typically includes courses in the following subjects:

Calculus
Classical Mechanics
Differential Equations
Electricity and Magnetism
English Composition
General Chemistry
Instrumental Methods
Modern Experimental Physics
Modern Physics
Optics and Wave Phenomena
Quantum and Atomic Physics
Scientific Computer Programming
Special Relativity
Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics

No matter where you go to school, you're likely to take a set of "core" courses similar to the list above. Once you've completed those courses, you can take advanced courses in physics. Courses may include:

Advanced Dynamics
Advanced Theory of Electricity and Magnetism
Mathematical Physics
Optical/Electronic Spectroscopy
Quantum Mechanics

Graduate Program Courses

Graduate students usually focus on a particular area of research interest or application of physics. Typical courses vary by specialty. All require original research and extensive use of computer modeling. A list of common graduate requirements is below: