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 120 semester hours of credit, including Foundational Studies course work, as well as the requirements for the departmental major. The Department also offers a physics minor.

General Degree Requirements (BS Degree)

Physics Major (63-66 credits)
Core Curriculum (43 credits)

Physics: 115, 115L, 116, 116L, 306, 307, 308, 308L, 310, 321, 341, 405
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 (BS Degree)

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, 322, 342, 420, 497
Mathematics: 231, 333

 

Chemical Physics Concentration (BS Degree)

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, 322, 497
Chemistry: 321, 461, 461L, 462, 462L

 

Engineering Physics Concentration (BS Degree)

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: 315, 316
Computer Science: 151
Engineering Technology: 103
Engineering: 302
Electives: Three courses from the approved list of ENGR, ET, and PHYS courses.

 


Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Physics

This program is designed for the student who wishes to pursue secondary teaching opportunities, enroll in a professional program in the medical or health sciences, or combine their interest in physics with a major or minor in another discipline. For more information, see the ISU undergraduate catalog: Requirements for the BA in Physics

The BA in Physics requires 43 credits from the following courses:

Physics: 115, 115L, 116, 116L, 306, 307, 308, 308L, 310, 315, 316, 321, 341, 405, and 6 elective credits
Mathematics: 131, 132

 


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 29 credits from the following courses:

Physics: 115, 115L, 116, 116L, 306, 307, 308, 308L, one elective course
Mathematics: 131, 132


Further Information and Contact

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

Contact Information
Jennifer Inlow, Chairperson
email:jennifer.inlow@indstate.edu

Department of Chemistry and Physics
600 Chestnut Street
Science Building, Room 035
Indiana State University
Terre Haute, IN 47809

Chemistry
Office: Science 035
Phone: 812-237-2239
Fax: 812-237-2232

Physics
Office: Science 165
Phone: 812-237-2239
Fax: 812-237-4396

Office Hours
Monday-Friday
8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

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