Bachelor of Arts in Physics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Columbia University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Physics at Columbia University offers a rigorous education in modern physics, combining theoretical foundations with the mathematical and experimental techniques used in scientific research. Students progress from introductory physics and calculus to advanced subjects such as quantum mechanics, electromagnetism and thermal physics, preparing for graduate study, research careers and other fields that value analytical and quantitative problem-solving skills.

Curriculum Structure

First Year: Students begin with an introductory physics sequence appropriate to their preparation, alongside Calculus I (MATH UN1101) and Calculus II (MATH UN1102). Depending on their background, physics options include Physics I: Mechanics/Relativity (PHYS UN1601) or Intro to Mechanics & Thermo (PHYS UN1401), developing an understanding of motion, energy and fundamental physical principles.

Second Year: Students continue their introductory sequence through subjects such as Physics II: Thermo, Electricity & Magnetism (PHYS UN1602) and Physics III: Classical/Quantum Wave (PHYS UN2601). Mathematics courses such as Accelerated Multivariable Calculus (MATH UN1205) and Introduction to Applied Mathematics (APMA E2101) strengthen the quantitative skills required for advanced physics.

Third Year: Students study core subjects including Mechanics (PHYS UN3003), Electricity-Magnetism (PHYS UN3007) and Electromagnetic Waves & Optics (PHYS UN3008). They also develop experimental skills through Intermediate Laboratory Work (PHYS UN3081) or Electronics Laboratory (PHYS UN3083), applying theoretical principles to practical scientific investigations.

Fourth Year: Students complete advanced courses such as Quantum Mechanics I and II (PHYS GU4021 and PHYS GU4022) and Thermal & Statistical Physics (PHYS GU4023). Electives such as Introduction to General Relativity (PHYS GU4040), Introduction to Particle Physics (PHYS GU4050) or Solid State Physics (PHYS GU4018) allow students to explore specialised areas, while the Seminar in Current Research Problems (PHYS UN3072) introduces active research topics.

Focus Areas

Classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, thermal and statistical physics, mathematical physics, experimental physics, electronics, optics, relativity, particle physics, astrophysics and solid-state physics.

Learning Outcomes

Theoretical Knowledge: Apply fundamental and advanced physics principles to scientific problems.
Mathematical Reasoning: Use calculus, linear algebra, differential equations and mathematical methods to model physical systems.
Experimental Skills: Conduct laboratory investigations, interpret measurements and connect empirical evidence with theory.
Critical Thinking: Analyse complex scientific questions using quantitative reasoning and evidence-based methods.
Research Preparation: Develop familiarity with current research topics and the methods used in basic and applied physics.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program develops mathematical, analytical, experimental and scientific reasoning skills applicable to research and technical careers. Columbia's official program information does not specify a separate professional accreditation for the B.A. in Physics.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Columbia's Physics Department provides a strong research-oriented academic environment, with advanced coursework designed to prepare students for graduate study. The department notes that most physics majors continue to graduate-level study, while the skills gained through the degree can also support careers in other scientific and nonscientific fields. A specific employability ranking or degree-specific graduate salary is not stated in the official program information.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Columbia University combines theoretical physics with laboratory training, research seminars and opportunities to explore current scientific questions. Students develop practical skills through experiments in classical and modern physics, electronics and advanced laboratory work, while departmental research activities introduce them to the methods used by practising scientists.

Key experiential learning opportunities include:

Introductory Experimental Physics Lab (PHYS UN1493 and PHYS UN1494): Explore experiments involving mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, optics, waves, atomic physics and nuclear physics.
Experiments in Classical and Modern Physics (PHYS UN2699): Apply scientific measurement and experimental analysis to classical and modern physics topics.
Intermediate Laboratory Work (PHYS UN3081): Complete selected laboratory experiments to strengthen practical research and analytical skills.
Electronics Laboratory (PHYS UN3083): Develop practical familiarity with electronic systems and experimental techniques.
Advanced Laboratory Work (PHYS GU4051): Investigate topics in electricity, magnetism, optics, atomic physics and nuclear physics through advanced experiments.
Research Group Experience: Approved experimental work with a faculty research group may satisfy one semester of the intermediate laboratory requirement.
Seminar in Current Research Problems (PHYS UN3072): Explore active research questions, scientific methods, current findings and unresolved problems in physics.
Department Research Open House: Learn about faculty research areas and potential undergraduate research opportunities through departmental events.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The B.A. in Physics at Columbia University provides a strong foundation for scientific research, postgraduate education and careers that require advanced quantitative reasoning. Potential roles include research assistant, laboratory technician, scientific data analyst and computational analyst, depending on students' additional skills and experience.

Students can explore the following progression opportunities:

Career Services: Columbia's Center for Career Education provides career counselling, job and internship resources, resume support, interview preparation and employer networking opportunities.
Research Experience: Faculty research and laboratory opportunities can help students build practical skills, strengthen academic references and prepare for graduate applications.
Scientific and Technical Careers: The degree's emphasis on mathematics, experimentation and analytical reasoning can support opportunities in scientific laboratories, technology, data-focused work and research organisations.
Employment Statistics and Salaries: Columbia's official physics-major information does not publish a specific graduate employment rate or salary figure for this degree.
Professional Accreditation: The official program information does not specify a separate professional accreditation for the B.A. in Physics.
Graduation Outcomes: The department notes that many physics majors pursue master's or doctoral study, while the analytical and quantitative skills developed through the degree can also be applied in other professional fields.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates can pursue an M.A., M.S. or Ph.D. in Physics or related disciplines, depending on their interests and the admission requirements of their chosen institution. Potential specialisations include astrophysics, particle physics, condensed matter physics, applied mathematics and computational science. Students interested in medicine, law, business or other professional fields can also explore relevant postgraduate pathways and complete any required prerequisites.