A Physics undergraduate degree is a window to an incredible world of exploration and application.
The School of Physics offers bachelor of science degrees in physics and applied physics. The undergraduate degrees are broad based with an initial emphasis on core topics such as classical and quantum mechanics, electromagnetism and thermodynamics. This is followed by a range of more specialized courses including atomic, solid state, optical, nuclear and particle physics; biophysics, astrophysics, nanoscience and relativity. Courses of general interest, such as astronomy, are also available.
The relatively large number of physics majors (more than 100) allows for a wide range of courses to meet the interests of a diverse student group. Students are able to develop their own programs of study with the aid of faculty advisement.
Approximately half of all physics majors progress to doctoral study at, either Georgia Tech or at other prestigious universities. Students may also go to graduate school in other disciplines such as electrical engineering and materials science, where a bachelor degree in physics is recognized as effective preparation. Other students choose to go into education, business and industry. Banking (economic forecasting) and oil exploration are among the many areas that seek physics majors.
Prospective Students
- Admission Requirements
- Financial Aid
- Core Requirements
- Undergraduate Research
- Physics Research Experiences for Undergraduates
- Undergraduate Admissions
- Apply Today
Current Students
- Program Information: Learn more about the Bachelors of Science in Physics and Applied Physics
- Scholarships: Scholarships available to Physics undergraduates
- Core Requirements: List of courses required to graduate with a degree in Physics
- Course Schedule: Recommended 4-year schedule of classes
- Physics Minor: List of courses required for a minor
- Astrophysics Concentration: for Physics majors with a particular interest in astrophysics
- Astrophysics Certificate: for non-Physics majors with a particular interest in astrophysics
- Physics of Living Systems Concentration: for Physics majors with a particular interest in biological physics
- Information for Non-Majors: Information about transfer credit, lab make ups and exemptions, course overrides
- Energy Systems Minor: A program offered by the School of Aerospace Engineering that focuses on an area relevant to energy that is within the scope of the Physics program (Minor request)
- Help Desk: Information on tutoring at Clough Commons
- Advanced Labs: Website for advanced labs
- Course Syllabi (PDF): Subjects covered by each Physics course
- DegreeWorks: Use DegreeWorks to review past, present, and future academic coursework to evaluate which degree requirements are complete and which degree requirements are remaining
- Undergraduate Research: Explore opportunities to conduct research in physics while getting your degree
- Summer Research Internships: Explore opportunities to participate in research labs over summer break
- Conference Travel Grants: Apply for travel funds from the College of Sciences
- Summer Internships
Contacts: Physics and Applied Physics Majors Advisement
- General Advisement: Dr. Martin Jarrio (martin.jarrio at physics.gatech.edu)
- DegreeWorks and Degree Petitions: Dr. Martin Jarrio (martin.jarrio at physics.gatech.edu)
- Registration: Dr. Andrew Scherbakov (Andrew.scherbakov at physics.gatech.edu)
- Advisement, Change of Major, Contracts: Prof. Brian Kennedy (brian.kennedy at physics.gatech.edu)
Contacts: Physics and Applied Physics Non-Majors
- Astrophysics Certificate: Dr. James Sowell (jim.sowell at physics.gatech.edu)
- Minor in Physics: Dr. Martin Jarrio (martin.jarrio at physics.gatech.edu)
- Change of Major: Dr. Martin Jarrio (martin.jarrio at physics.gatech.edu), Prof. Brian Kennedy (brian.kennedy at physics.gatech.edu)
- Advanced Standing testing (students with score 4 on AP Physics C): Dr. Andrew Scherbakov (Andrew.scherbakov at physics.gatech.edu)
Choosing From Our Undergraduate Degrees
The School of Physics offers two undergraduate degrees: Bachelor of Science in Physics and Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics.
The basis of the Bachelor of Science in Physics is the traditional preparation of a student for graduate study in physics. The degree program in applied physics may be better suited for entry into industry or government upon graduation, preparation for further professional training, or preparation for graduate study in some other discipline.
Each of the baccalaureate programs contains the following:
- Courses needed to meet general institutional degree requirements
- A core of technical courses intended to give a strong background in
- Mathematics
- The physical principles of
- Mechanics
- Electricity and Magnetism
- Thermodynamics
- Quantum Theory
- Technical electives that enable the student to explore areas of his or her choice in greater depth
- Free electives which may be used to schedule additional technical or nontechnical courses
A total of 122 credit hours and a grade point average of at least 2.0 in physics courses numbered 3000 and higher are requisites for the bachelor's degree in physics.
The School of Physics also offers programs of study leading to certificates in Astrophysics.
Additional Information
With a degree from the Georgia Tech School of Physics, you'll have the tools you need to succeed whether you decide to go to graduate school or into the industry after graduation. The Bachelor of Science in Physics prepares students for physics graduate programs while the Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics is better suited for entry into industry or preparation for graduate study in some other discipline.
The School of Physics also offers Astrophysics Certificate and Astrophysics Concentration.
If you're interested in a visit, check out "It's all about science and math" at Georgia Tech. This program allows you to attend an undergraduate course, meet with faculty, advisors, and current students, visit labs, and learn about admission and financial aid. Parents are welcome to attend. Follow the links above for more information on applying to Georgia Tech Physics.
