Academic Catalog - 2024-2025

College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences

Department of Applied Physics and Materials Science

Physics, Bachelor of Science


Academic Information

This degree takes students from the core of the atom to the hearts of galaxies, all in an effort to understand how the universe works. This Physics-rich program also grounds the student in advanced math and calculus.

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Academic Catalog - 2024-2025

College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences

Department of Applied Physics and Materials Science

Physics, Bachelor of Science


Careers

What Can I Do with a Bachelor of Science in Physics?

Have you ever thought about very small things, like the inside of an atom? If you look for patterns in nature's behavior, then maybe you're a physicist in the making. By pursuing a physics degree at Northern Arizona University, you can indulge your scientific curiosity and prepare for a career in a technical field or as a professional scientist.

You will become immersed in the science of physics, which uses mathematics to describe why and how things work. Here, you will be encouraged to think independently and to join in faculty research projects on optics, material science, and quantum mechanics. You'll benefit from close contact with faculty as well as our array of high-tech instruments.

Career opportunities that might be pursued:
  • Industrial researcher
  • Scientific programmer
  • National lab team member
  • Defense industry team member

With further education, one of these paths is possible:
  • University professor
  • Researcher
  • Medical physicist
  • Industrial engineer
  • Optical engineer

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Academic Catalog - 2024-2025

College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences

Department of Applied Physics and Materials Science

Physics, Bachelor of Science


University Requirements

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Academic Catalog - 2024-2025

College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences

Department of Applied Physics and Materials Science

Physics, Bachelor of Science


Overview

In addition to University Requirements:

Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.

Minimum Units for Completion 120
Highest Mathematics Required MAT 239
Research Optional
University Honors Program Optional
AZ Transfer Students complete AGEC-S Recommended
Progression Plan Link View Progression Plan

Purpose Statement
Physics seeks to explain everything from the structure, evolution, and formation of the universe to the nature of matter and energy. At its heart, physics aims to provide fundamental and predictive explanations to observed phenomena, establishing relationships between measurable quantities, and developing mathematical model(s) to interpret, leverage, and understand these phenomena. The major emphasizes foundational skills for the understanding key physical phenomena including matter, motion, energy, electricity and magnetism, quantum theory, and gravity. Through a mastery of physics, students will develop advanced mathematical, computational, and experimental skills. Major work is completed through classroom and laboratory experiences. The critical thinking, scientific analysis, and communication skills attained through the completion of a physics degree will prepare graduates for entry to graduate and professional schools, industry careers, and research laboratory work.

Student Learning Outcomes

The BS in Physics program is designed to prepare students for a career in a technical field or for graduate studies in physics.

Physics Content
Students will have an understanding of the laws of physics in the areas of:


Laboratory Skills
Computational Skills
Problem Solving Skills
Students will develop problem-solving capacities. In particular, a student will be able to:
Communication Skills

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Academic Catalog - 2024-2025

College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences

Department of Applied Physics and Materials Science

Physics, Bachelor of Science


Details

Major Requirements
General Electives
Additional Information
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Academic Catalog - 2024-2025

College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences

Department of Applied Physics and Materials Science

Physics, Bachelor of Science


Campus Availability

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