BA in Physics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Emory University

Program Overview

Emory University's Bachelor of Arts in Physics provides a flexible foundation in classical and modern physics, mathematical methods, computational modelling and experimental science. The program suits students who want to develop strong analytical and scientific skills while retaining the flexibility to explore careers or further study in medicine, law, business, teaching, science communication and other interdisciplinary fields.

Curriculum Structure

First Year: Students build their mathematical and physics foundations through Calculus II (MATH 112), Physics I (PHYS 151), Multivariable Calculus (MATH 211) and Physics II (PHYS 152) in the suggested freshman-start schedule. Students following a later-start pathway may begin with Calculus I (MATH 111) and Calculus II (MATH 112) before progressing into the physics sequence.

Second Year: Students develop a deeper understanding of physical principles through Modern Physics (PHYS 253) and Computational Modeling (PHYS 212), supported by Differential Equations (MATH 212). These courses strengthen their ability to analyse physical systems using mathematical techniques and computational approaches.

Third Year: Students take a core theory course selected from Classical Mechanics (PHYS 361), Electricity and Magnetism (PHYS 365), Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics (PHYS 421) or Quantum Mechanics (PHYS 461). They also undertake Advanced Undergraduate Laboratory (PHYS 444), developing practical experience in experimental investigation, scientific measurement and data analysis.

Fourth Year: Students complete two physics electives at the required level, allowing them to tailor their studies to their academic interests and career goals. The suggested schedule encourages students to consider another core theory course as an elective, while eligible students may fulfil one elective through an approved directed-study or research course, subject to the department's requirements.

Focus Areas

Classical mechanics, modern physics, computational modelling, mathematical physics, quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, experimental physics, scientific research and quantitative analysis.

Learning Outcomes

Apply mathematical principles to physical problems, analyse scientific systems using computational methods, conduct and interpret experiments, evaluate scientific evidence, communicate technical findings clearly, develop quantitative reasoning skills and prepare for interdisciplinary professional or postgraduate pathways.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The degree develops transferable scientific and analytical skills relevant to research, technical industries and professional education. The official program information does not specify a separate professional accreditation for the B.A. in Physics.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Emory's Physics Department offers undergraduate research opportunities across areas including biophysics, condensed matter physics, optics and theoretical physics. The department also provides access to specialised experimental research facilities and astronomy resources. A specific employability ranking, graduate employment rate or salary figure for this degree is not stated in the official program information.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Emory University supports practical learning through advanced undergraduate laboratory work, computational modelling and opportunities to participate in faculty-led research. Students can develop experimental skills, analyse scientific data and explore research topics while working with department faculty. The degree's elective structure also allows eligible students to incorporate supervised research into their studies.

Key experiential learning opportunities include:

Advanced Undergraduate Laboratory (PHYS 444): Develop hands-on experience with experimental methods, scientific instrumentation, measurement and data analysis.
Computational Modelling (PHYS 212): Apply computational techniques to model physical systems and investigate scientific problems.
Undergraduate Research (PHYS 499): Undertake faculty-supervised research for academic credit, typically 2–4 credit hours, or explore paid research opportunities where available.
Honors Research (PHYS 495): Eligible students with at least a 3.5 cumulative GPA may apply to the department's Physics Honors Program and undertake supervised research.
Experimental Research Facilities: Access specialised departmental facilities for materials and device preparation, deposition, nanofabrication, characterisation and measurements, subject to research access arrangements.
Physics Machine Shop: Explore the design, modification and construction of scientific equipment and custom research apparatus through the department's machine-shop facilities.
Physics Electronics Shop: Gain exposure to the design, construction and repair of electronic devices used in scientific research.
Emory Observatory: Explore astronomy using the computer-controlled 24-inch DFM Cassegrain optical telescope and an observation pad equipped for smaller telescopes.
Research Presentation and Analysis: Build experience documenting experiments, interpreting data and communicating findings through supervised research projects.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The B.A. in Physics equips graduates with mathematical reasoning, computational skills and scientific problem-solving abilities that can transfer to several professional fields. Potential career roles include research assistant, laboratory technician, data analyst and science writer, depending on the student's experience and additional qualifications.

Students can strengthen their career preparation through the following opportunities:

Career Services: Emory's career-support services help students explore career options, prepare resumes, practise interviews and access employment and internship opportunities.
Internships and Employment: University career resources can help students identify relevant internships and entry-level roles in research, technology, education and other industries.
Faculty Research Opportunities: Supervised research can help students develop technical experience, build relationships with faculty and strengthen applications for graduate study or research-oriented employment.
Interdisciplinary Career Pathways: Emory identifies medicine, dentistry, law, business, science writing and teaching as potential directions for B.A. Physics students.
Employment Statistics and Salaries: The official program information does not publish a degree-specific graduate employment rate or salary figure.
Professional Accreditation: The degree provides a foundation in scientific and analytical skills, but no separate professional accreditation is specified in the official program information.
Graduation Outcomes: Students complete the core physics requirements, advanced laboratory work and upper-level electives, with the option to pursue eligible research or directed-study experiences.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates can pursue postgraduate study in physics, applied physics, computational science or related disciplines, subject to individual program admission requirements. Students interested in research careers may consider a master's degree or Ph.D., while those interested in medicine, dentistry or law can pursue the relevant professional-school pathways after meeting prerequisite requirements. The B.A.'s flexible structure also supports further study in interdisciplinary areas that combine scientific reasoning with business, education or public policy.