B.A. Physics
This is a calculus-based B.A. program, which allows considerable flexibility for the student who wishes to study physics as part of a liberal arts education. Students who choose this degree program have the prerequisites to take nearly all of the courses in the department. They find employment in scientific and engineering fields. Some go on to graduate school in interdisciplinary sciences. This degree program is appropriate for those who wish to earn a California Science Teaching Credential with a concentration in Physics.
Here is the Advising Checklist (PDF) for this degree program. For more information, please consult our Sample Four-Year Plans, Advising page, or the Catalog.
Degree Requirements Summary
| Degree Requirements | Units |
|---|---|
| Major Requirements | 34-38 |
| Required Area of Concentration | 12 |
| Supporting Courses | 12 |
| General Education | 41 |
| General Electives | 17-21 |
| Total units needed for graduation | 120 |
Major Core Requirements: 17 Units
The major must include a minimum of 24 upper-division units in physics and astronomy; with an advisor, choose 12-14 units in additional upper-division physics and astronomy courses. PHYS 100 may be used to substitute for an advanced Physics elective course.
- PHYS 114 - Introduction to Physics I Unit(s): 4 (may be applied to GE)
- PHYS 116 - Introductory Laboratory Experience Unit(s): 1 (may be applied to GE)
- PHYS 214 - Introduction to Physics II Unit(s): 4
- PHYS 216 - Introductory Laboratory Unit(s): 1
- PHYS 314 - Introduction to Physics III Unit(s): 4
- PHYS 340 - Light and Optics Unit(s): 3
Choose One of the Following Programming Courses: 2-4 Units
- PHYS 381 - Computer Applications for Scientists Unit(s): 2
- CS 115 - Programming I Unit(s): 4
Capstone Requirement: 3 Units
(Complete PHYS 491 and one (1) additional course from the list below)
- PHYS 491 - Capstone Preparatory Seminar Unit(s): 1. Required!
- ASTR 492 - Instructional Design Project Unit(s): 2
- ASTR 497 - Undergraduate Research in Astronomy Unit(s): 2
- PHYS 492 - Instructional Design Project Unit(s): 2
- PHYS 493 - Senior Design Project Unit(s): 2
- PHYS 497 - Undergraduate Research in Physics Unit(s): 2
Required Area of Concentration: 12 Units
Courses in one other field, chosen in consultation with an advisor.
Supporting Courses: 12 Units
- MATH 161 - Differential and Integral Calculus I Unit(s): 4 (3 units may be applied in GE)
- MATH 211 - Differential and Integral Calculus II Unit(s): 4
- MATH 261 - Multivariable Calculus Unit(s): 4