2025-2026 Course Catalog
The Department of Physics provides a curriculum aligned with contemporary research and infused with hands-on skills. Spanning the full breadth of knowledge, from basic notions to the leading edge in the physics of matter and astrophysics, the coursework promotes the ability to think in unscripted ways that is quintessential to this field. Strong math and flexible programming requirements are key elements in support of the curriculum. Active learning in our classrooms creates graduates who thrive in advanced academic disciplines as diverse as particle physics and global science policy. Our focus on programming, instrumentation and data skills produces versatile professionals endowed for a multitude of careers in all areas of services, from the healthcare industry to the financial sector, inclusive of engineering.
Research experiences are an integral component of the physics programs, offered as early as the freshman year and enriched with travel to partner sites across the world. Under the guidance of caring faculty mentors, our physics students develop the skills and mindset needed to become the uniquely qualified problem solvers who often epitomize this field of pursuit.
Students pursuing Physics have several options:
- Bachelor of Science in Physics
- Bachelor of Arts in Physics
- Bachelor of Arts in Physics and Bachelor of Science with an engineering major from a partner university (3+2 Binary Engineering program)
- Bachelor of Arts in Physics and Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education (BA/BSEd) dual degree
- Physics minor
Degree programs
Two degree options are offered for students majoring in physics: the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.).
Common Requirements For All Physics Majors: In addition to physics coursework indicated below by program, the following are required for all physics degrees
|
Course |
Credits |
|---|---|
|
MATH 115 Calculus I |
4 |
|
MATH 116 Calculus II |
4 |
|
MATH 215 Calculus III |
4 |
|
MATH 310 Linear Algebra |
3 |
|
MATH 314 Differential Equations |
3 |
|
MATH 308 Numerical Methods or MATH 301 Probability and Statistics I |
3 |
|
Choose one:
|
3 |
|
CHEM 121/121L General Chemistry I and Lab |
5 |
|
CHEM 122/122L General Chemistry II and Lab |
5 |
|
ENGL 302W Science Writing |
3 |
|
PHYS 105 Career Development |
1 |
|
Bridges Common Learning Experience required for all University programs
|
40 credits, many embedded
|
Bachelor of Science in Physics
The receive a bachelor of science degree, a minimum of 126 credits must be completed, which include all common requirements, the physics core courses, and the track courses. Physics courses must have a grade of C or better.
Learning Outcomes
At the successful conclusion of the bachelor of science program, students will
- use fundamental physics laws and methods to solve problems.
- communicate effectively.
- function effectively on a team whose members establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives.
- develop and conduct appropriate experimentation.
- apply technical software and coding methods to physics problems.
Physics Core Requirements
|
Course |
Credits |
|---|---|
|
PHYS 221 Physics I – Classical Mechanics or PHYS 211 General Analytical Physics I
|
4 (3) |
|
PHYS 221L Physics I lab or PHYS 211L General Analytical Physics I Lab |
1 |
|
PHYS 222 Physics II – Electromagnetism or PHYS 212 General Analytical Physics II |
4 (3) |
|
PHYS 222L Physics II lab or PHYS 212L General Analytical Physics II lab |
1 |
|
PHYS 302 Optics |
3 |
|
PHYS 312 Optics Lab |
1 |
|
PHYS 332 Electronics |
3 |
|
PHYS 374 Modern Physics |
3 |
|
PHYS 401 Thermal Physics |
4 |
|
PHYS 461 Mechanics |
4 |
|
PHYS 464 Advanced Lab |
2 |
|
PHYS 470 Electricity and Magnetism |
3 |
|
PHYS 473 Electrodynamics |
3 |
|
PHYS 474 Quantum Mechanics |
3 |
|
PHYS 499W Senior Research |
2 |
Track Options (Choose One)
|
Track |
Recommended For |
Required Courses/Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
Broad Track |
Candidates planning to pursue a graduate degree in physics after graduation
|
- PHYS 350 Mathematical Methods in Physics (3 credits)
-At least two semesters of research and PHYS 407 GRE Prep are strongly recommended, though not required. |
|
Professional Track |
Candidates planning to enter the workforce immediately after graduation.
|
- PHYS 404, PHYS 491, PHYS 502, plus one additional applied physics course |
|
Astronomy Track |
Candidates intending to pursue a graduate degree in astronomy after graduation
|
- 12 credits of approved astronomy courses via cross-registration at the University
of Pittsburgh |
Bachelor of Arts in Physics
To receive a bachelor of arts degree, a minimum of 120 credits must be completed, which include all common requirements and the physics courses specified below. Physics courses must have a grade of C or better.
Learning Outcomes:
At the successful conclusion of the bachelor of arts program, students will
- use fundamental physics laws and methods to solve problems.
- communicate effectively.
- function effectively on a team whose members establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives.
- develop and conduct appropriate experimentation.
- apply technical software and coding methods to physics problems.
Physics Requirements
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| PHYS 221 Physics I – Classical Mechanics or PHYS 211 General Analytical Physics I |
4 (3) |
| PHYS 221L Physics I lab or PHYS 211L General Analytical Physics I Lab | 1 |
| PHYS 222 Physics II – Electromagnetism or PHYS 212 General Analytical Physics II | 4 (3) |
| PHYS 222L Physics II lab or PHYS 212L General Analytical Physics II lab | 1 |
| PHYS 302 Optics | 3 |
| PHYS 312 Optics Lab | 1 |
| PHYS 374 Modern Physics | 3 |
| PHYS 464 Advanced Lab or PHYS 499W Senior Research | 2 |
| Choose any standard-grade course numbered at or above PHYS 300 | 15 |
The BA is recommended for students with a broader range of interests, particularly those planning to seek professional degrees in medical school, law or education. The BA degree is also offered in combination with a second degree in our double-degree programs.
Dual Degree Programs
Binary Engineering program
Leading to a BA in physics and a BS in engineering from our partner institutions, this program follows a 3+2 model for students starting at Duquesne University and transferring to the partner institution after completing all required coursework for the BA degree. All engineering majors offered at the partner institution are available to this program. Partner institutions include the University of Pittsburgh and Case Western Reserve University. The average completion time is five years. Full details available in the articulation agreements.
Physics Teacher programs
There are three options for candidates planning to pursue a career as a high-school physics teacher:
- BSEd Secondary Science - Physics. Students in the School of Education can complete a major in physics through this program. Recommended for candidates who prefer a fast track to physics teaching certification.
- BSEd Secondary Science/BA physics. Students complete the requirements of both degrees in 9 semesters with an accelerated option for qualified candidates to graduate in 8 semesters. Recommended for candidates who favor the strongest physics credentials.
- BA Physics/MAT Secondary Education. An accelerated program in the 4+1 model leading to a bachelor's degree in physics and a master's degree in education. Recommended for candidates who prioritize building physics content in advance of learning pedagogy.
Physics Minor
Requirements For The Minor
| Category | Details | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Introductory Physics Sequence | Choose one of the following two options: • PHYS 211 + PHYS 212: General Analytical Physics I & II • PHYS 221 + PHYS 222: Physics I (Classical Mechanics) & Physics II (Electromagnetism) |
6 or 8 |
| Core Course | PHYS 374: Modern Physics | 3 |
| Additional Coursework | • 6 credits of standard-grade PHYS coursework at 200-level or above • All physics labs are eligible • Pass/No Pass credits are not eligible |
6 |
| Grade Requirement | • Average GPA of 2.0 in all minor courses • Grade of C or better required in PHYS courses serving as prerequisites |
— |
Approved Substitutions
| Substitute Courses | Replaces |
|---|---|
| PHYS 201 Physics for the Life Sciences I + MATH 115 Calculus I (7 credits) | PHYS 211 General Analytical Physics I (3 credits) |
| BMED 201 + 202 Biomedical Electronics & Instrumentation I + II (6 credits) | PHYS 332 Electronics (3 credits) |