Bachelor of Science in Physics

Physics is the natural science that studies matter, its motion and behavior through space and time, and the related entities of energy and force. At ACU, you’ll have the opportunity to gain experience as an undergraduate that many schools reserve only for their graduate students. Not mere observers of physics research, you will be active, well-trained, participants entrusted with key responsibilities in your work alongside faculty members and international scientists at national research laboratories.
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Physics is the natural science that studies matter, its motion and behavior through space and time, and the related entities of energy and force. At ACU, you’ll have the opportunity to gain experience as an undergraduate that many schools reserve only for their graduate students. Not mere observers of physics research, you will be active, well-trained, participants entrusted with key responsibilities in your work alongside faculty members and international scientists at national research laboratories.

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Are you ready for the challenge?

Complete the form to learn more about earning a degree in physics.

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Mission

In ACU’s Department of Engineering and Physics, we marvel at God’s handiwork in the laws of the universe, and seek to understand and apply those principles to solve big problems while improving the lives of people around the world.

Program Structure

BS in Physics Degree Details

These are the important details you will need to keep in mind as you prepare your application and degree plan.

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Tracks

Engineering Science Technology (PHYS-PHET)
Engineering Physics (PHYS-PHYN)
Computational Physics (PHYS-PHYC)
Physics (PHYS-PHYS)
Medical Physics (PHYS-PHYM)

Required

Total Required: 128 credit hours*
University Requirements: 56 credit hours
Major Requirements: 33-70 credit hours (Choice of 5 tracks)

*Based on track selection

Electives: 2-39 credit hours

Example Coursework 

Electricity and Magnetism
Nuclear Physics
Quantum Mechanics
General Relativity

Minor Available

Yes

Department

Engineering and Physics

Application Deadlines

Early Bird: Nov. 1
Regular: Feb. 1
National Candidates: May 1

Curriculum

Students in physics class

Student Opportunities

  • Study Abroad in Leipzig, Germany
  • Lab Instructors – students have the opportunity to assist in teaching physics labs including general physics, astronomy, optics and electronics.
  • Society of Physics Students (SPS) – ACU’s chapter has received the outstanding chapter award for more than 10 years. Participating students are encouraged (and partially funded) to attend regional and professional meetings as well as conduct science outreach for schools across Texas.
  • LEAP – Ladies of Engineering and Physics student group
  • Service learning trips

Research

Opportunities for hands-on research are available with ACU faculty on campus and at prestigious national labs. ACU students have participated in research at:

  • Brookhaven National Lab, Long Island, New York
  • Fermi National Lab, Batavia, Illinois
  • Los Alamos National Lab, Los Alamos, New Mexico
  • Max Planck Institute, Postsdam, Germany
  • Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia
  • PNPI, St. Petersburg, Russia
  • Sandia National Lab, Albuquerque, New Mexico
  • University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Illinois

Careers

Dr. Kimble

Jobs for physics graduates are as varied as they are exciting and challenging. You’ll have a wide range of possibilities, including:

  • Physicist
  • Astrophysicist
  • Metallurgist
  • Nuclear physicist
  • Technology director
  • Geophysicist
  • Hydrologist
  • Forensic scientist
  • Particle accelerator operations analyst