At the bachelor of science level, students will not be expected to specialize in any branch of physics. However, the curriculum does have room for electives, providing an opportunity to develop a minor in other fields of science or in an engineering discipline. It provides a background in applications of physics for students seeking employment in industry and a solid foundation for graduate study in physics or other fields such as geophysics, meteorology, metallurgy, computer science, mathematics, materials science, and many branches of engineering.

Because physics is the basis of most engineering disciplines, understanding basic principles of physics can help one become a better engineer. An increasing number of students are choosing a double major, consisting of physics plus some field of engineering. Students going this route often end up in industrial research and development. In a rapidly-changing economy where one field of engineering may be in a slump while others are not, understanding physics can assist students in moving across disciplines. For these reasons, students are encouraged to consider double majors.