Physics (Arts & Science)

Department contact:
223 Physics Building
573-882-3335

Degrees:
Bachelor of Arts in Physics
Bachelor of Science in Physics
Minor in Physics

Two tracks of specialization: biological physics and astronomy

Overview:
Physics is the science that studies the structure and properties of matter and transformations of energy. With math as the language and experimental verification as a guide, physical study has established the fundamental laws of nature that are the foundation of all natural science and technology. The study of physics includes learning the general principles and the phenomena that have been discovered and developing the skills that enable such knowledge to be advanced through research.

The study of physics is the starting point for many career opportunities; training in physics allows immense flexibility for the future in terms of additional study and in the ability to fit into jobs and job training in many areas. A traditional path is to continue the study of physics in graduate school to earn a master of science or a doctor of philosophy degree - a necessary achievement to be qualified to teach and continue research in a college or university.

A background in physics is preparation for continued study in a variety of fields, including geophysics, health physics, meteorology, engineering and all other sciences, as well as medicine, law, business and many other professions. Opportunities for those with bachelor of science degrees and those with advanced degrees also can be found in a variety of industries and in state and federal laboratories and agencies.

Academic Information

Admission Requirements:
Any student may declare a major in Physics. Students must complete College Algebra and English 1000 with a C- or above and have a 2.0 cumulative GPA to complete a graduation plan with the College of Arts & Science.

Minimum GPA for Admission: 2.0

Specifically required non-major courses for the BA degree:
Mathematics 1500, 1700, 2300, 4100
Computer Science 1040
Chemistry 1320

Specifically required non-major courses for the BS degree:
Mathematics 1500, 1700, 2300, 4100 & math electives
Computer Science 1040
Chemistry 1320

Entry-level courses to sample the major:
Physics 2750 (check prerequisites)

Sample 8-semester outline(s):
http://registrar.missouri.edu/Catalog/Plans/ARTSCI_physics_BA06.pdf
http://registrar.missouri.edu/Catalog/Plans/ARTSCI_physics_BS06.pdf

Related majors, minors and areas of study on the MU campus:
Biochemistry, Chemistry

Department Website:
http://www.physics.missouri.edu


contact
Victor Price
Registrar's Office
126 Jesse Hall
Columbia, MO 65211-1140
phone: 573-882-4729
email: pricev@missouri.edu
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