Physics Degree Programs

The Department of Chemistry and Physics offers a curriculum leading to a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science degree in physics. Candidates for either degree must successfully complete the University requirement of a minimum of 124 semester hours of credit, including Foundational Studies course work, as well as the requirements for the departmental major. Candidates for the bachelor of arts must also complete two years, or the equivalent, of a foreign language. The Department also offers a physics minor.

General Degree Requirements

Physics Major (63-65 semester hours)
Core Curriculum (44 semester hours)

Physics: 205, 205L, 206, 206L, 215, 215L, 216, 216L, 310, 321, 322, 341
Mathematics: 131, 132
Chemistry: 105, 105L, 106, 106L

At Indiana State University you can focus your career preparation on one of several interdisciplinary areas. The three concentrations of study offered are described below, along with the additional course requirements for each concentration. For more information, see the following sections of the ISU undergraduate catalog:

Professional Physics Concentration

This emphasis is built around the physics core curriculum to supply the background and experience needed to enter graduate studies or become a research physicist.

Physics: 311, 315, 316, 342, 420, 497
Mathematics: 231, 333

Chemical Physics Concentration

Chemical physics focuses on areas where the techniques of chemistry and physics are brought together for the study of atoms and molecules; their interactions in gases, liquids, and solids; and the detailed structure and dynamics of material changes. Chemical physicists are employed by a wide range of businesses, particularly the pharmaceutical, photographic and microelectronic industries.

Physics: 315, 316, 497
Chemistry: 321, 461, 461L, 462, 462L

Engineering Physics Concentration

The engineering physics concentration focuses on applying the principles of physics to developing new technologies and solving interdisciplinary engineering problems. Graduates may pursue an advanced degree in applied physics or engineering, or function as productive engineering professionals.

Physics: 309, 315, 316
Computer Science: 256
Mechanical Engineering Technology: 103, 130, 203, 404

Physics Minor

A minor in physics is often a good choice for students majoring in related fields, such as mathematics, computer science, chemistry, geology, biology, or technology. For more information, see the ISU undergraduate catalog: Requirements for the physics minor

The minor requires 32 semester hours of credit in the following courses:

Physics: 205, 205L, 206, 206L, 215, 215L, 216, 216L, 310, 341
Mathematics: 131, 132

Engineering Dual Degree

Students in the Dual Degree Program complete some of their degree requirements at ISU and some at the University of Evansville, and receive a B.S. in physics from ISU and a B.S. in engineering from the University of Evansville College of Engineering. For more information about this program, see the Pre-Engineering link.

Further Information and Contact

For more information about the physics programs or engineering dual degree option, or to arrange a visit to the department, contact the appropriate academic advisor.