Bachelor of Science - Applied Physics - General

Physics is a study of matter and its interaction at the fundamental level. Physicists seek to measure, understand, model, and control the processes in the physical world around everyone. To this end, physicists use a variety of descriptive and quantitative techniques to represent their knowledge. Furthermore, this work is conducted in a community where collaboration, teaching, and communication of results are essential. The Bachelor of Science - Applied physics makes a connection between fundamental research in physics and its application to real-world problem-solving. Research in applied physics has led to the use of electricity and magnetism for lighting and propulsion, given birth to the semiconductor industry that has provided people with the conveniences of modern electronics, and played an important part in the development of biomedical technology. While engineers have perfected many of these inventions, applied physicists have been responsible for their discovery.

The degree in Applied Physics prepares students to succeed in a wide range of entry-level positions in the high technology and biotechnology industry by giving them a broad and rigorous grounding in the principles of physics, while at the same time emphasizing the application of physics to real-world problems.

The Applied physics baccalaureate-level graduates will have unique critical thinking and problem-solving abilities that will be valuable to employers in a wide range of technical fields.

The Applied Physics Degree requires the completion of 120 semester units in one of two options, Applied Physics or Applied Electronics, each of which allows students to focus on a particular area of interest. Both options will provide opportunities for their research in collaboration with faculty in the Physics Department. These undergraduate research opportunities will provide valuable training that will make graduates more competitive in the job market.