Physics BS

Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Science (BS)
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 Science in Physics degree program provides a rigorous foundation in physics suitable for graduate study or 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

Same as Drexel admissions requirements

Degree Requirements

University Requirements
EXP 1001Introduction to Experiential Learning3.0
WRIT 1100Composition and Rhetoric I3.0
or WRIT 1110 English Composition I
WRIT 1200Composition and Rhetoric II3.0
or WRIT 1210 English Composition II
Introductory Core Competencies 1
Select one course from each of the three (3) categories of Introductory Core Competency Courses:6.0
Introductory: Inquire and Analyze
Introductory: Collaborate and Integrate
Introductory: Apply and Engage - satisfied by AS-I 1007 in the College Requirements below.
Free Electives15.0
College Requirements
AS-I 1007Journeys in Arts and Sciences3.0
AS-I 1008Data Fluency3.0
AS-I 1009Interdisciplinary Ethics3.0
Program Requirements
Core Physics Requirements
PHYS 1401Contemporary Physics I4.0
PHYS 1402Contemporary Physics II4.0
PHYS 1701Introduction to Experimental Physics3.0
PHYS 2411Waves and Quanta4.0
PHYS 2421Classical Mechanics3.0
PHYS 2711Introduction to Computational Physics3.0
PHYS 3301Physics Seminar (Must be taken twice)2.0
PHYS 3431Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics4.0
PHYS 3441Electromagnetic Fields4.0
PHYS 3701Advanced Laboratory in Physics3.0
PHYS 4411Advanced Quantum Mechanics3.0
PHYS 4988Senior Thesis in Physics I3.0
PHYS 4989Senior Thesis in Physics II3.0
Topicals
Select five (5) of the following courses: 215.0
Observational Astrophysics
Introduction to Astrophysics
Introduction to Biophysics
Mathematical Physics
Computational Physics
Introduction to Nuclear Physics
Big Data Physics
Extragalactic Astrophysics
Condensed Matter Physics
Nanoscience
Biophysics
Particle Physics
Math and Science Requirements
CHEM 1030Chemistry for Engineers4.0
MATH 1201Calculus I4.0
MATH 1202Calculus II4.0
MATH 2201Multivariable Calculus4.0
MATH 2901Matrix and Differential Systems I4.0
Free Electives3.0
Optional Co-op Experience
Co-op is an option for this degree for full-time on-campus students. Co-op cycles may vary. Students choosing this option will be required to complete COOP 1001 as preparation for their co-op experience. COOP 1001 registration is determined by the co-op cycle assigned.0.0
Total Credits120.0
1

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

2

Other elective courses at the 4000 level will be considered at the discretion of the program.

Program Learning Outcomes