The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers a major in physics with either a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science Degree. The BA degree provides a broad coverage of classical and modern physics while permitting a broader liberal arts education. It is normally selected by students who do not envision a professional career in physics, but plan to enter a professional school later in their academic career, e.g. medicine, dentistry or law, or who desire to pursue a teaching certificate. The BS degree in Physics is designed to prepare students for scientific careers immediately upon graduation, for further training in graduate school, or for teaching high school physics. A minor in physics or astronomy is also available.
Physics education plays a pivotal role in such areas of burgeoning and societal importance as biomedical optical imaging/biomedicine, materials science, and homeland security. Therefore, the Department of Physics has introduced several new courses and electives to train undergraduate students in optical sciences, biological physics, materials sciences and nanotechnology.