Department of Physics

Undergraduate Programs

The Department of Physics offers major programs in two baccalaureate areas: the Bachelor of Science and the Bachelor of Arts. All Physics students must complete 47 hours of General Education courses in addition to their major requirements.

The Physics Major (68 hours) leading to the Bachelor of Science degree is recommended for students who wish to prepare for graduate study in physics, engineering, and other sciences such as study in geophysics, astronomy, biophysics, and medical physics.

The Applied Physics Major (66 hours), leading to the Bachelor of Science degree, is especially suitable for students seeking industrial or other applied employment after the B.S. degree. It could also serve as a background for graduate study in some applied science or engineering areas.

Applied Physics/Engineering Dual-Degree Major leads to a Bachelor of Science Applied Physics degree from the University of Northern Iowa and a B.S. Engineering degree from The University of Iowa or Iowa State University. This program requires approximately three years of attendance at UNI followed by approximately two years of attendance at UI or ISU.

The B.A. Physics Major (53 hours) is for students (including double majors) desiring a broad background in science or who are taking a substantial amount of work in other areas. With appropriate choice of electives the B.A. Physics Major meets the need of pre-medical and pre-law students and students planning careers in science-related administration, business or technical writing.

The B.A. Physics Major--Teaching program (46 hours) is for students preparing to be physics teachers at the secondary school level. Sufficient work should be taken for licensure approval in a second subject area, as well. Completion of this major will satisfy the requirements of the Iowa Department of Education for physics approval.

Minors:

Physics, BA
Required Physics Courses: 880:130; 880:131 (8 hrs)
Plus Electives in Physics: 100-level courses (8 hrs)
Total: 16 hours

Physics, BA - teaching
Required:
Science and Science Education: 820:190; 820:193; 820:196 (8 hrs)

Physics: 880:054 or 880:130; 880:056 or 880:131 (8 hrs)
Electives in physics: 100-level courses (including no more than 4 hrs from 880:152 and 880:154 (14 hrs)
Total: 30 hours

Sample Plan of Study for Major:

Physics, BS

Physics, BA
Applied Physics, BS

Physics, BA - Teaching
Applied Physics, BS/Engineering, BS