Mar 29, 2024  
2018-2019 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2018-2019 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Physics, BS


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.

Combined Bachelor’s/Master’s Plan

Under this plan, students may reduce the time necessary to earn both degrees by applying graduate credits to both undergraduate and graduate program requirements. Both BS/MS (Master of Science) and BS/MAT (Master of Arts in Teaching) plans are available. Students are encouraged to obtain the specific requirements for pursuing the combined degree from the Department of Physics and Astronomy (www.physics.clemson.edu) as early as possible in their undergraduate program. Enrollment guidelines and procedures can be found under Academic Regulations  in this catalog.

Program Requirements


The BS curriculum is directed toward preparing students for graduate study ultimately leading to the PhD degree or toward research and development work in industrial or governmental laboratories. It also provides a good background for graduate study or industrial work in many areas or engineering physics and applied science.

Major Requirements


Freshman Year


Credit Hours: 15

Second Semester


Credit Hours: 15

Sophomore Year


Credit Hours: 16

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 1020 in a modern language. See Modern Languages Requirement at Clemson University statement in Academic Regulations .

3 Select from the emphasis areas below. Twelve credits in one of these areas, with at least six at the 3000-4000 level, are required. Note: Requirements for a minor in one of these areas might be satisfied with three additional credits at the 3000-4000 level.

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

5 Select any 2000-4000-level course in ASTR, BIOL, CH, ENSP, GEOL, PHYS or STS