Physics, BS

Location(s): Main Campus

Physics is the study of matter, motion, and energy. As one of the natural sciences, physics applies mathematics and scientific reasoning to the study of our reality, from the smallest particles to the farthest corners of the universe. The physics BS program provides training in the foundations of physics and mathematics and requires more focused work in the discipline than the Physics BA. If the student wishes to complete the requirements for the BS degree, an earlier start than the sophomore year is highly advisable.

The Physics BS program prepares students for further study in physics at the graduate level, as well as a solid basis for advanced study in engineering and other disciplines. The BS in physics also prepares students for work in various areas of the applied sciences, research, and industry.

The Physics BS program offers three tracks:

The Applied Physics program is built upon the Physics BS major, with additions from other departments, such as geology or mechanical engineering, to create a unique and focused program in applied sciences. The Mathematical Physics program is for students interested in pursuing graduate education or careers in mathematical physics or other theoretically oriented fields of physical science.

Program Requirements

University General Education Requirements

All Binghamton University undergraduate students are required to fulfill this set of university-wide requirements to ensure that every graduate acquires the essential core of a SUNY university undergraduate education. Please refer to the General Education page for more information.

Harpur College Requirements

All students in Harpur College must fulfill additional requirements designated by Harpur College to complement and extend the general education requirements. Please refer to the Harpur College of Arts and Sciences page for more information.

Major Requirements

Prerequisites

The Physics Department views the prerequisites listed for physics courses as essential. If a student does not have the prerequisites, or the equivalent, a course may be taken only after successful petition to the departmental undergraduate committee.

Also note that the following courses are required courses for the physics major: MATH 224 and PHYS 121. If students do not place into MATH 224, then MATH 223 and, if needed, MATH 108 are also required for completion of the major. If students do not place into PHYS 121, then MATH 108 is also required for completion of the major.

Physics BS Course Requirements

Students are required to complete 76 credits for the Physics BS, as follows:

Typical Four-Year Plan of Study

Students may find a typical four-year curricular plan as well as other additional information about the program in the Undergraduate Physics Handbook. Please note that your course progression might vary from the example. Students are strongly recommended to consult with their advisor throughout their study at Binghamton University to ensure they can complete their degree on time.

Additional Information About the Program

No courses taken to satisfy the requirements for the major in physics may be taken with the Pass/Fail option when letter grades are available for the courses. Credit by examination is not granted for courses taught by the department apart from the Advanced Placement procedure.

Our introductory physics courses require a certain number of in-person and hands-on lab experiments in addition to the course’s discussion and lecture components. Transferred courses that are completely online do not meet this criteria.

Residency Requirements: Six of the nine required 300- and 400-level PHYS courses must be taken in residence at Binghamton University.

For more information on the Physics BS program, please refer to the Physics, Applied Physics, and Astronomy Department website. To apply to the Physics BS program, please visit the University Admissions website.