University of Pennsylvania

Course Details

BSc(Physics and Astrophysics)

Course Description

Introductory Physics is taught in several formats, ranging from small, accelerated honors sections to larger lecture courses. (The main criteria for admission to the honors course is a sufficiently advanced math preparation to be able to handle the material at a higher level, and a willingness to work hard). We ask our very best faculty to teach in the introductory program; all of the department's major course offerings are taught by members of the faculty. Once past the year of introductory Physics, upper level courses are all taught in small classes. There are many opportunities for individual contact with the faculty. It is also straightforward to complete a double major. In recent years, students have combined the study of Physics with Mathematics, Economics, Electrical Engineering, and Chemistry. A large proportion of our graduating seniors go on to do graduate work in Physics at top-ranked institutions. Because most of our faculty of 37 have active research programs, students have ample opportunities to be kept informed of, and participate in, the latest developments in cutting-edge research. Our research interests include Elementary Particle Physics, Condensed Matter Physics, and Astrophysics. We make a serious effort to involve interested undergraduates in the department's research activities, in the form of both independent research projects for academic credit and summer research jobs. The basic Physics major program provides a solid background in classical and modern Physics. The development follows the historical origins of the subject, starting with mechanics and proceeding to electromagnetism and then to the contribution of the twentieth century, relativity and quantum mechanics. Pedagogically the program is cyclical: after an introductory survey the major provides courses focused on the primary divisions of the subject. Students planning graduate study in Physics will generally take several elective courses in the department while those intending to seek employment in industry, or further study in other fields after graduation, will take electives appropriate to their career objectives. There are several flavors, or "concentrations" to the Physics major. All start with the same fundamental set of courses, but they differ in the choice of upper-division and elective courses: Concentration in Physical Theory and Experimental Technique: This concentration is particularly appropriate for students contemplating graduate study in Physics. It provides a sound basis in Physics and Mathematics, with ample opportunities to take elective or even graduate courses and participate in research. Concentration in Chemical Principles: This concentration is particularly appropriate for students planning to enter the health professions. In addition to core Physics courses, two years of Chemistry form an integral part of this concentration. Concentration in Computer Techniques: This concentration is particularly appropriate for students contemplating a dual degree in Physics and Computer Science, or for those planning a career in the computer or electronics industries. In addition to core Physics courses, students choose from a selection of courses in Computer Science and computational techniques. Concentration in Astrophysics: This concentration is particularly appropriate for students planning to attend graduate school in Astrophysics. In addition to core Physics courses, students choose from a selection of courses in Astronomy and Astrophysics. Concentration in Business and Technology: This concentration is particularly appropriate for students whose ultimate goal is a career in modern industry involving both technical and managerial components. A student choosing this concentration will have a solid background in Physics, will be comfortable with both electronics and computers, and will have some appreciation of modern business methods and economics. Concentration in Biological Sciences: This concentration reflects increasing contributions of physicists (including members of our Faculty) to implications of Physics to Biological Sciences. Undergraduate students choosing this concentration will prepare themselves for careers in scientific research or professional Medical Physics programs that have been instituted at Penn and other Universities, among other possibilities.

Course Duration

NumberDuration
4year

Career outcomes

related career




BSc(Physics and Astrophysics) University of Pennsylvania