Program Overview
A physics major at the University of Kansas provides students with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of classical and modern physics, preparing them for careers in research, engineering, technology, education, and beyond. Whether you pursue a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or a Bachelor of Science (B.S.), this physics degree emphasizes analytical reasoning, quantitative modeling, and experimental investigation. Students in the physics major develop advanced mathematical fluency and hands-on laboratory experience that translate across industries.
As a student earning a degree in physics, you will explore mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and computational methods while building the critical-thinking skills employers value. With multiple pathways available, KU’s physics degrees allow students to tailor their academic experience to align with career goals, graduate study, or interdisciplinary interests.
The program offers several concentrations designed to meet diverse academic and professional objectives:
- Physics: A flexible liberal arts pathway that combines core physics coursework with broader study across the sciences and humanities.
- Computational Physics: Integrates advanced computing, modeling, and numerical analysis into the traditional physics major, preparing students for data-driven and simulation-focused careers.
- Interdisciplinary Physics: Allows customization through coursework in related STEM fields such as engineering, mathematics, chemistry, or computer science.
- Physics Teacher Education: Prepares students to teach physics at the secondary level through a combination of physics content mastery and professional education coursework.
Through close faculty mentorship, undergraduate research opportunities, and collaborative laboratory experiences, students pursuing a bachelor’s in physics gain both theoretical depth and practical expertise.
Learn more about KU
Undergraduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Physics, BA/BSKU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The Bachelor’s of Physics is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, home to a collaborative and creative community making the world better through inquiry and research.Bachelor’s in Physics Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the physics major will:
- Demonstrate mastery of foundational principles in classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, and quantum mechanics.
- Apply advanced mathematical methods and computational techniques to solve complex physical problems.
- Design and conduct experiments, analyze data quantitatively, and interpret results using established scientific methodologies.
- Integrate theoretical models with empirical evidence to evaluate physical systems.
- Communicate scientific concepts and findings clearly and effectively in written, oral, and graphical formats.
- Apply ethical reasoning and collaborative skills in scientific and professional environments.
These outcomes ensure that students completing a degree in physics are prepared for both immediate employment and advanced study.
What Careers are Possible with a Bachelor’s in Physics?
A physics degree opens doors to a wide range of professional pathways. Graduates frequently pursue roles in:
- Engineering
- Data Science
- Research and Development
- Medical Physics
- Aerospace and Defense
- Energy and Environmental Science
- Finance and Actuarial Science
Because the physics major emphasizes mathematical modeling and analytical reasoning, graduates are highly competitive in technical and analytical fields. According to Lightcast, individuals with physics major jobs span sectors such as technology, government research laboratories, advanced manufacturing, and financial services. Many students also continue toward graduate study to earn a physicist degree or related advanced credential.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers a variety of financial aid opportunities to make earning your degree in physics more affordable. Learn more about tuition and funding options at KU Financial Aid.Admission Requirements
All students interested in the physics major must meet the standard University of Kansas admission requirements for incoming freshman and transfer students. This includes:
Freshman
- 3.25 high school GPA OR 2.0 GPA and 21+ ACT
Transfer
- Assured admission with 24+ transferrable credit hours with a 2.5+ GPA from a regionally accredited higher education institution.
For detailed admission requirements, visit KU Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experience
Students pursuing a bachelor’s in physics at KU join an active academic community committed to discovery and collaboration. The Society of Physics Students (SPS) provides networking opportunities, outreach events, and professional development programming. Faculty regularly involve undergraduates in research projects spanning theoretical physics, computational modeling, condensed matter, astrophysics, and related areas.
Through laboratory work, research mentorship, and interdisciplinary engagement, the physics major experience prepares students for graduate programs at some of the best colleges for physics as well as competitive industry roles. The department’s connections with national laboratories, industry partners, and research institutions create valuable experiential learning opportunities.
Bachelor’s in Physics Sample Courses
The curriculum for the physics degree includes foundational and advanced coursework that develops both conceptual understanding and technical expertise. Key courses may include:
- General Physics I & II
- Classical Mechanics
- Electromagnetic Theory
- Quantum Mechanics
- Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics
- Computational Physics
- Experimental Physics
Course requirements vary by pathway among the available physics degrees, with the BS option typically requiring more advanced mathematics and upper-division physics coursework. For a full list of required courses, visit the KU catalog:
Bachelor’s in Physics Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in four years.