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Physics - B.A.

The Bachelor of Arts in Physics program provides a strong foundation in the principles of physics and their applications to the world around us. With a focus on critical thinking, problem-solving and hands-on experimentation, this program prepares you for a variety of careers in science and beyond.

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Bachelor’s Degree in Physics

The aim of Kent State University’s Bachelor of Arts Degree in Physics is to provide students with a thorough understanding of fundamental physical principles, analytical techniques, and experimental methodologies. The program is designed to offer a strong foundation in both theoretical concepts and practical applications of physics, preparing graduates for diverse careers in research, education, and technology. We focus on equipping students with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary to address complex scientific challenges, engage in innovative research, and pursue further specialization or advanced studies in the field.

Program Information for Physics - B.A.

Learning Outcomes
Admissions for Physics - B.A.
Coursework

In This Accordion...

Program Requirements

Major Requirements

Major Requirements (courses count in major GPA)
MATH 12002ANALYTIC GEOMETRY AND CALCULUS I (KMCR) 5
MATH 12003ANALYTIC GEOMETRY AND CALCULUS II 5
MATH 32051MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN THE PHYSICAL SCIENCES I 4
MATH 32052MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN THE PHYSICAL SCIENCES II 4
PHY 12000INTRODUCTORY PHYSICS SEMINAR (ELR) 1
PHY 23101GENERAL UNIVERSITY PHYSICS I (KBS) (KLAB) 15
PHY 23102GENERAL UNIVERSITY PHYSICS II (KBS) (KLAB) 15
PHY 30020INTERMEDIATE PHYSICS LABORATORY (WIC) 22
PHY 35101CLASSICAL MECHANICS 4
PHY 36001INTRODUCTORY MODERN PHYSICS 3
PHY 36002APPLICATIONS OF MODERN PHYSICS 3
PHY 40020ADVANCED PHYSICS LABORATORY (WIC) 22
PHY 45201ELECTROMAGNETIC THEORY 4
Physics (PHY) Upper-Division Electives (30000 or 40000 level) 3, 48
Additional Requirements (courses do not count in major GPA)
UC 10001FLASHES 101 1
Foreign Language (see Foreign Language College Requirement below)14-16
Kent Core Composition6
Kent Core Humanities and Fine Arts (minimum one course from each)9
Kent Core Social Sciences (must be from two disciplines)6
Kent Core Additional6
General Electives (total credit hours depends on earning 120 credit hours, including 39 upper-division credit hours)23
Minimum Total Credit Hours:120
1

Credit is not granted for both the PHY 13001/PHY 13002 and the PHY 23101/PHY 23102 series.

2

A minimum C grade must be earned to fulfill the writing-intensive requirement.

3

With advisor’s permission, students may replace 3 credit hours of physics electives with ENG 20002 or PHIL 41035.

4

Maximum 6 credit hours of PHY 40096 may be applied toward the major.

Graduation Requirements

Minimum Major GPA Minimum Overall GPA
2.000 2.000
  • The following courses may not count towards the Physics major requirements:
    PHY 11030SEVEN IDEAS THAT SHOOK THE UNIVERSE (KBS) 3
    PHY 21040PHYSICS IN ENTERTAINMENT AND THE ARTS (KBS) 3
    PHY 21041PHYSICS IN ENTERTAINMENT AND THE ARTS LABORATORY (KBS) (KLAB) 1
    PHY 21430FRONTIERS IN ASTRONOMY (KBS) 3
    PHY 21431FRONTIERS IN ASTRONOMY LABORATORY (KBS) (KLAB) 1

Foreign Language College Requirement, B.A.

Students pursuing the Bachelor of Arts degree in the College of Arts and Sciences must complete 14-16 credit hours of foreign language.1
To complete the requirement, students need the equivalent of Elementary I and II in any language, plus one of the following options2:

  1. Intermediate I and II of the same language
  2. Elementary I and II of a second language
  3. Any combination of two courses from the following list:
  • Intermediate I of the same language
  • ARAB 21401
  • ASL 19401
  • CHIN 25421
  • MCLS 10001
  • MCLS 20001
  • MCLS 20091
  • MCLS 21417
  • MCLS 21420
  • MCLS 22217
  • MCLS 28403
  • MCLS 28404
1

All students with prior foreign language experience should take the foreign language placement test to determine the appropriate level at which to start. Some students may start beyond the Elementary I level and will complete the requirement with fewer credit hours and fewer courses. This may be accomplished by (1) passing a course beyond Elementary I through Intermediate II level; (2) receiving credit through one of the alternative credit programs offered by Kent State University; or (3) demonstrating language proficiency comparable to Elementary II of a foreign language. When students complete the requirement with fewer than 14 credit hours and four courses, they will complete remaining credit hours with general electives.

2

Certain majors, concentrations and minors may require specific languages, limit the languages from which a student may choose or require coursework through Intermediate II. Students who plan to pursue graduate study may need particular language coursework.

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