Physics, B.S.

Visit the Physics Department page for more information on the program and access to advising.

Program Description

A Bachelor in Physics provides the student with an understanding of the laws of nature and with the experimental and analytical techniques necessary to describe and solve problems in physical systems. The degree prepares students for further graduate study in physics, astronomy, geophysics, medicine, engineering, or many other diverse fields. Bachelor's recipients also find employment in a variety of industries and careers, including engineering, education, computer science, programming, electronics, energy and the environment, geology, medical physics, optics, finance, law, and more.

Matriculation Requirements

1. Advisor approval.
2. Completion of PHYS 2210 and either PHYS 1100 or MATH 1210 with a C or higher.
3. Completion of PHYS 1090 with a C or higher.

Program Requirements

¹

Suggested elective option for the student intent on continuing physics studies in graduate school.

²

Strongly recommended for inclusion in any elective option.    

Graduation Requirements

1. Completion of a minimum of 120 semester credits.
2. Overall grade point average of 2.0 (C) or above with no grade lower than a "C" in core and elective requirement courses.
3. Residency hours--minimum of 30 credit hours through course attendance at UVU, with at least 10 hours earned in the last 45 hours.
4. Completion of GE and specified departmental requirements.
5. Successful completion of at least one Global/Intercultural course.
6. Successful completion of at least two Writing Enriched courses.

Graduation Plan

This graduation plan is a sample plan and is intended to be a guide. Your specific plan may differ based on your Math and English placement and/or transfer credits applied. You are encouraged to meet with an advisor and set up an individualized graduation plan in Wolverine Track.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate understanding of how science and physics work in practice by correctly using evidence, experiment and observation, interpretation, physical concepts, etc.
2. Apply fundamental physical concepts including conservation laws, forces, fields, energy, optics, thermal and statistical physics, relativity, and quantum mechanics.
3. Use mathematics and mathematical models correctly to solve physics problems.
4. Follow practices necessary for safely using laboratory equipment.
5. Demonstrate understanding of the role of computation in physics and appropriate computer skills.
6. Communicate effectively about physics in writing and in presentations, in both formal and informal settings.
7. Demonstrate physics research skills and use ethical research practices.