Department of Physics
College of Arts and Sciences
105 Smith Hall
Tel: 330-672-2246
Fax: 330-672-2959
Web: http://phys.kent.edu

Physics Major (B.A.)—2009-2010 Roadmap [Degree Requirements]

The Bachelor of Arts in physics program can be used to prepare physics majors for such varied fields as secondary education, patent law, science journalism or interdisciplinary science careers. The core requirements permit a large number of elective courses, which allow the student to complete a minor or second major in preparation for an interdisciplinary career. This program is well suited for students with a strong interest not only in science but also in a non-science field.  Students completing the program may choose to continue their physics studies on a graduate level.

Physics Major (B.S.)

Research Concentration—2009-2010 Roadmap [Degree Requirements]

The research concentration is designed to prepare physics majors for further study at the graduate level.  This program trains students in logical thinking and problem solving using both analytical and computational methods. It also furnishes students with a comprehensive understanding of the basic laws and principles that govern the physical world.  Academic assessment and GRE results keep the program up-to-date via curricular revisions. This program is a popular stepping stone to graduate degrees not only in physics, but also in engineering, astronomy/astrophysics or materials science.

Applied Physics Concentration—2009-2010 Roadmap [Degree Requirements]

The applied physics concentration is designed to prepare physics majors for immediate entry into careers in industry. Course requirements include electronics, introduction to computer programming, and data analysis and computational physics techniques. While rooted in the basic principles of physics, this program is optimized for students concerned with the application of physics in practical devices and systems.

Chemistry Concentration—2009-2010 Roadmap [Degree Requirements]

The chemistry concentration is an interdisciplinary program designed for students with a strong interest in both physics and chemistry, who may wish to prepare for graduate study in chemical physics or for work in a high-technology materials-related research and development laboratory. This program satisfies requirements for a minor in chemistry.

Biological Sciences Concentration—2009-2010 Roadmap [Degree Requirements]

The biological sciences concentration is an interdisciplinary program designed for students with a strong interest in both physics and biology, who may wish to prepare for graduate study in biophysics or for work in a biotechnology company. This program satisfies requirements for a minor in biological sciences.

Applied Mathematics and Computer Science Concentration—2009-2010 Roadmap [Degree Requirements]

The applied mathematics and computer science concentration is an interdisciplinary program that provides a foundation in physics while emphasizing the use of computer software in scientific applications. This program will prepare students for computer-related careers that require an understanding of the underlying science as well as a knowledge of relevant computer applications. This program satisfies requirements for a minor in computer science. 

Mathematics Concentration—2009-2010 Roadmap [Degree Requirements]

Students in this interdisciplinary program, in addition to physics, take courses in pure mathematics as well as applied mathematics.  A graduate of this program will understand physical theory, its applications and the underlying mathematics.  This training, valuable for start-up positions with a number of industries, may also serve as preparation for graduate work in either physics or mathematics.

Physics Minor

Course requirements for physics minor (23 credits):

Minimum cumulative 2.00 GPA required for graduation.