It is aimed at giving them an in-depth preparation for graduate study in physics or geophysics or for a variety of careers in research and teaching. It also allows the opportunity for specialization in various areas of emphasis, including applied physics, applied optics, computational physics, and geophysics. The B.A. degree, major in physics is designed for students who would like to have a firm foundation in physics combined with a study in another area and greater flexibility in choosing elective courses. It is particularly useful for those interested in interdisciplinary studies. The department also offers designated minors in physics, in addition to a regular minor .
Designated minors give a background adequate for graduate study in physics.
They require a greater number of courses at a higher level than a regular minor, and they should be particularly attractive to majors in engineering and science who desire an enriched science background. Each of these must have a designated area of concentration, chosen from classical mechanics, computational physics, electromagnetics, general physics, geophysics, materials, optics, and quantum mechanics. The undergraduate students here frequently take summer of co-op work at major research laboratories across the nation, both for experience and for income. Some financial aid is also available, both as scholarships and for work in the department. The department's bachelor's degree recipients generally follow the national trends in their career moves.