Dec 21, 2024  
2017-2018 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2017-2018 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Physics, BA


Physics, the most fundamental of the natural sciences, forms the basis of study upon which the other branches of science are founded. Physics is concerned with the fundamental behavior of matter and energy. Classical physics encompasses the fields of mechanics, heat and thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, acoustics and optics. Modern physics is concerned with the study of atoms and molecules, atomic nuclei, elementary particles and the properties of liquids, crystalline solids, and other materials, as well as the areas of relativity, cosmology, and the large-scale structure of the universe. The undergraduate Physics curricula provide students with a strong background in the classical areas of physics, as well as an introduction to the more important aspects of modern physics.

Double Major in Physics/Science Teaching-Physics

The Bachelor of Arts Degree in Physics and Science Teaching-Physics prepares students for teaching physics on the secondary school level and for graduate studies in physics. See Science Teaching: Teaching Area - Physics, BA  for the curriculum.

Note: To receive a double major in Physics and Science Teaching-Physics, the student must complete a change-of-program form to declare both majors.

Program Requirements


The Bachelor of Arts in Physics program is ideal for students interested in acquiring a broad-based liberal education that includes a strong and solid understanding of either science or a broad exposure to engineering with a strong physics foundation.

Freshman Year


Credit Hours: 15

Second Semester


Credit Hours: 15

Sophomore Year


Credit Hours: 16

Second Semester


Credit Hours: 14

Junior Year


First Semester


Credit Hours: 15

Second Semester


Credit Hours: 15

Senior Year


First Semester


Credit Hours: 15

Second Semester


Credit Hours: 15

Total Semester Hours: 120


1 See General Education Requirements . Three of these credit hours must also satisfy the Science and Technology in Society Requirement.

2 Students must complete through 2020 in a modern language. See Modern Languages Requirement at Clemson University statement in Academic Regulations .

3 See advisor.

4 ENGL 3040 , ENGL 3120 , ENGL 3140 , ENGL 3150 , ENGL 3450 , ENGL 3460 , ENGL 3480 , ML 4020 , or THEA 3470 .

5 Select from ASTR 3020 , ASTR 3030 , PHYS 3120 , PHYS 3250 , PHYS 3260 , PHYS 4170 , PHYS 4200 , PHYS 4320 , PHYS 4420 , PHYS 4450 , PHYS 4460 , PHYS 4520 , PHYS 4560 , PHYS 4750