Physics, B.A.

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Physics (B.A.)

A Bachelor of Arts in Physics gives an in-depth look into the world of Physics. Because of the significant amount of electives, it is not uncommon to combine a BA in physics with a degree in chemistry, biology, mathematics, education, or engineering!

Minimum hours required for B.A. major: 47

Requirements of the College of Sciences and Health Professions: A minimum of 120 credit hours is required for a degree, of which 42 semester credit hours must be earned in 300- and/or 400-level courses.

Major-Field Requirements for B.A. in Physics

Required Physics Courses (20 credit hours)

The following required physics courses:

PHY 243 - University Physics I (Writing)
PHY 244 - University Physics II (Writing)
PHY 320 - Introduction to Computational Physics *
PHY 330 - Introduction to Modern Physics
PHY 474 - Thermal Physics
*PHY 320 is required but can be substituted with a course from the following list: CIS 260 , ESC 151 , ESC 152 , MTH 311 . The student should be aware that they need 42 credit hours of 300+ courses if they substitute this way.

Physics Electives (15 credit hours)

15 credits of physics electives to be selected from all the 300- and 400-level physics courses.

Mathematics Courses (12 credit hours)

The following required mathematics and computer science courses:

MTH 181 - Calculus I
MTH 182 - Calculus II
Any course or a combination of courses from the following list: MTH 220 , MTH 281 , MTH 283 , MTH 284 , MTH 288 , or ESC 250 . This item must account for at least 4 credit hours.

Physics with Secondary Teacher Licensure

The CSUteach Program offers an option of an integrated science license (Physics) or a dual program in single-field physics and integrated mathematics. The licensure programs require coursework from the College of Science and the College of Education and Human Services. Contact the CSUteach Program for education courses required for undergraduate and Post-Baccalaureate Secondary Teacher Licensure programs (216-687-4625, JH 170).

Two teacher preparation tracks are available:

BA in Physics, Integrated Science Licensure, Grades 7-12
BA in Physics, Physics & Mathematics Licensure, Grades 7-12

BA in Physics, Integrated Science Licensure, Grades 7-12

Physics Courses (35 credit hours)

PHY 241 - University Physics I or PHY 243 or PHY 243H
PHY 242 - University Physics II or PHY 244 or PHY 244H
PHY 320 - Introduction to Computational Physics *
PHY 330 - Introduction to Modern Physics
PHY 470 - Environmental Physics
PHY 474 - Thermal Physics
12 credits of Physics electives at the 300 or 400 level
*PHY 320 is required but can be substituted with a course from the following list: CIS 260 , ESC 151 , ESC 152 , MTH 311 . The student should be aware that they need 42 credit hours of 300+ courses if they substitute this way.

Biology Courses (12 credit hours)

Chemistry Courses (11 credit hours)

Environmental Science Courses (10 credit hours)

Mathematics Courses (15 credit hours)

Professional Education Courses (38 credit hours)

Students will also need to complete additional CSUteach education courses. Please see Education, Adolescent and Young Adult with Licensure, Grades 7-12 for details.

BA in Physics, Physics & Mathematics Licensure, Grades 7-12

Physics Courses (35 credit hours)

PHY 241 - University Physics I or PHY 243 or PHY 243H
PHY 242 - University Physics II or PHY 244 or PHY 244H
PHY 320 - Introduction to Computational Physics *
PHY 330 - Introduction to Modern Physics
PHY 470 - Environmental Physics
PHY 474 - Thermal Physics
12 credits of Physics electives at the 300 or 400 level
*PHY 320 is required but can be substituted with a course from the following list: CIS 260 , ESC 151 , ESC 152 , MTH 311 . The student should be aware that they need 42 credit hours of 300+ courses if they substitute this way.

Mathematics Courses (36 credit hours)

Science Sequence (7 credit hours)

Environmental Science Course (3 credit hours)

EVS 206 - Introduction to Environmental Science

Professional education courses (44 credit hours)

Students will also need to complete additional CSUteach education courses. Please see the College of Education, CSUteach program catalog for details: Education, Adolescent and Young Adult with Licensure, Grades 7-12