Majors & Minor

B.S. Physics

The Physics Major is a 4-year program with a strong emphasis on fundamental physics concepts and hands-on experience in state-of-the-art teaching laboratories. Students will learn how to analyze complex problems and will gain a strong quantitative background that can be applied in any technical field. Our graduates follow a wide range of career tracks, including graduate studies in physics and engineering, direct entry into the technology sector, and other careers that benefit from sharp analytical and problem solving skills.

B.S. Applied Physics

The Applied Physics major provides a flexible platform for students to combine a strong interest in the concepts and analytical tools of physics with the any one of the varied applications of those tools to societal problems. In consultation with our Undergraduate Program Director, students will tailor an interdisciplinary program of study to focus on topical areas such as quantum computation, materials science, energy and the environment, biophysics, mathematical physics, financial modeling, and more. The curriculum will culminate in a research project with a physics faculty member, or jointly supervised by faculty members from multiple departments. This track is recommended for students planning to enter the workforce after graduation rather than applying to graduate school in physics or related disciplines.

Physics Minor

The minimum requirements for a minor in physics include the following courses:

  • The following introductory courses:
    • PHYS2200, PHYS2201 and accompanying labs PHYS2050 and PHYS2051.
  • The following intermediate level courses:
    • PHYS3100 and PHYS3300.
  • Two upper-level courses (PHYS4000 and above) of 3 or more credits each.

Many of these courses have prerequisites. Students are advised to consult with the Undergraduate Program Director (physics@bc.edu) when selecting these courses.

Substitutions: PHYS2100 and PHYS2101 may be substituted for PHYS2200 and PHYS2201, respectively, but the latter are preferred. Students must consult with the Undergraduate Program Director if they wish to substitute other equivalent courses for required courses or the corequisites.

Corequisites: MATH1102 and MATH1103 are required.ÌýMATH2202 may be required as a prerequisite for some of the upper-level physics courses. Students should consult with the Undergraduate Program DirectorÌýto determine whether they will need to take these additional mathematics courses.