Physics BA

Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Minimum Required Credits: 120.0                           
Co-op Option(s): Two Co-op, One Co-op, No Co-op                                                       
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 40.0801
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 19-2012

About the Program

Drexel’s Bachelor of Arts in Physics degree program provides a foundation in physics suitable to branch out into other scientific or technical disciplines, education, or medical school. The physics program offers an innovative curriculum in a top-notch learning environment: small class sizes, personal interactions with faculty, and extensive opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research under mentorship of world-class faculty. Students explore the span of universal phenomenon—from the farthest reaches of astrophysics and cosmology, to molecular biophysics, advanced materials, and subatomic particle physics — providing a foundation for continued study and exploration. Many undergraduates actively participate in research projects, including co-authorship of peer-reviewed publications and presenting results at conferences.

Courses are designed to extend students' abilities to manage real-world challenges using cutting-edge technology, critical thinking and analytic skills, and advanced computational methods. The program is also flexible, allowing students to tailor their degree focus by selection of in-depth topical courses, including biophysics, extragalactic astrophysics, condensed matter physics, particle physics, and big data physics. In addition, students can choose electives to meet teacher certification requirements.

The Department of Physics conducts a broad array of outreach activities including the Kaczmarczik Lecture Series, public observing nights at the Lynch Observatory, and demonstrations in grade school performed by the Drexel Chapter of the Society of Physics Students (SPS) and the Women in Physics Society (WiPS).

Upon completion of the program, students will have a deep understanding of physical laws, will develop the skills to interpret experimental data, and will demonstrate mathematical and computational thinking and problem solving. They will be prepared to be a participant in the physics community, with an ability to analyze and discuss new discoveries in physics. Professionally, this program will prepare them for graduate study in Physics or other related fields, medical and other professional schools, or to enter the workforce in a wide range of technical or quantitative disciplines.

Additional Information

For more information about this program, please contact the College of Arts and Sciences

Admission Requirements

Admission to the Drexel undergraduate program.

Degree Requirements

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A complete list of eligible Introductory Core Competency courses can be found here.

Program Learning Outcomes