BS in Physics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Emory University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Physics at Emory University provides a rigorous, mathematics-intensive education in the fundamental principles governing the physical world. Designed especially for students interested in graduate study, scientific research, engineering-related fields and advanced technology, the program combines theoretical physics, computational modelling, experimental laboratory work and specialised electives to build strong analytical and research skills.

Curriculum Structure

First Year: Students establish a strong foundation in physics and mathematics through Physics I (PHYS 151), Physics II (PHYS 152), Calculus II (MATH 112) and Multivariable Calculus (MATH 211). These courses introduce core physical principles and the mathematical techniques needed to analyse more complex scientific problems.

Second Year: Students progress to more advanced subjects through Modern Physics (PHYS 253), Mathematical Methods for Science and Engineering (PHYS 220), Differential Equations (MATH 212) and Computational Modeling (PHYS 212). They also study Electricity and Magnetism (PHYS 365), strengthening their understanding of electromagnetic phenomena and computational approaches to physics.

Third Year: Students develop deeper theoretical knowledge through Classical Mechanics (PHYS 361) and Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics (PHYS 421). They then advance to Quantum Mechanics (PHYS 461) and Advanced Undergraduate Laboratory (PHYS 444), combining sophisticated mathematical concepts with practical experimental investigation.

Fourth Year: Students complete two physics electives, with one at the 300 level or above and the other at the 200 level or above. Depending on their academic interests and available offerings, they can use these electives to explore specialised topics or undertake an eligible four-credit directed study or research course, such as PHYS 397, PHYS 495 or PHYS 499.

Focus Areas

Classical mechanics, quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, computational modelling, mathematical physics, experimental physics, scientific instrumentation and advanced physics research.

Learning Outcomes

Theoretical Understanding: Apply advanced physical principles and mathematical methods to solve scientific problems.
Computational Skills: Use computational modelling to investigate physical systems and analyse scientific data.
Experimental Competence: Design, conduct and interpret experiments using appropriate scientific methods and instrumentation.
Analytical Reasoning: Evaluate complex problems systematically using quantitative and evidence-based approaches.
Research Preparation: Develop the foundational knowledge and practical skills required for advanced physics study and research.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The B.S. in Physics develops theoretical, mathematical, computational and experimental skills relevant to scientific research and technical industries. Emory's published degree information does not specify a separate professional accreditation for this program.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Emory's Department of Physics provides undergraduate research opportunities in areas including condensed matter physics, theoretical and computational physics, biophysics and scientific instrumentation. The university's official program information does not state a specific employability ranking, graduate employment rate or salary figure for this degree.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Emory University combines advanced physics coursework with experimental laboratory training, computational modelling and opportunities to participate in faculty-led research. Students gain practical experience interpreting scientific data, testing theoretical predictions and working with specialised equipment. The department's research groups and technical facilities provide opportunities to explore topics ranging from condensed matter physics to biophysics and computational science.

Key experiential learning opportunities include:

Advanced Undergraduate Laboratory (PHYS 444): Develop experimental skills through scientific measurements, laboratory investigations and data analysis.
Computational Modelling (PHYS 212): Apply computational approaches to model physical systems and investigate scientific problems.
Undergraduate Research (PHYS 499): Participate in faculty-supervised research, typically for 2–4 credit hours, with opportunities to earn credit or receive pay when funding is available.
Directed Study and Research: Eligible students may complete a four-credit research or directed-study course, such as PHYS 397, PHYS 495 or PHYS 499, toward an elective requirement.
Experimental Research Facilities: Access departmental facilities supporting materials and device preparation, thin-film deposition, nanofabrication, characterisation and scientific measurement through affiliated research groups.
Machine Shop and Electronics Shop: Gain exposure to the design, fabrication, modification and repair of specialised research equipment and custom scientific devices through relevant research projects.
Interdisciplinary Research Groups: Explore opportunities in condensed matter physics, theoretical and computational physics, biophysics, optics and scientific instrumentation.
Astronomy Facilities: Students interested in astronomy-related research may explore the department's optical telescope, radio telescope and teaching planetarium facilities, subject to relevant opportunities and access.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The B.S. in Physics prepares students for advanced study and technical careers requiring strong quantitative, analytical and experimental skills. Graduates can explore roles such as research assistant, laboratory scientist, computational analyst and scientific instrumentation specialist, depending on their experience and additional qualifications.

Students can strengthen their career readiness through the following opportunities:

Career Services: Emory's career-support services offer career guidance, job-search resources, resume development and interview preparation to help students explore professional opportunities.
Research Experience: Faculty-led projects and research courses help students develop practical scientific skills, build professional relationships and strengthen applications for graduate study.
Industry and Research Connections: Research activities involving scientific instrumentation, materials, optics and computational physics can help students explore opportunities in technology companies, laboratories and research organisations.
Employment Statistics and Salaries: The official program information does not publish a specific graduate employment rate or salary figure for the B.S. in Physics.
Professional Accreditation: The degree provides a strong academic foundation for scientific and technical work, but a separate professional accreditation is not specified in the published program information.
Graduation Outcomes: The combination of advanced theory, computational modelling, experimental laboratory work and specialist electives prepares graduates for further education and a range of technical career pathways.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates can pursue an M.S. or Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Physics or related fields such as materials science, computational physics, optics and biophysics. The program's mathematics-intensive curriculum is particularly relevant for students planning doctoral research or careers in scientific development. Students interested in engineering, medicine, law or other professional fields can also explore suitable postgraduate pathways, subject to the prerequisites and admission requirements of their chosen programs.