Physics, BA
Are you interested in the laws and mechanics that govern the universe? Our BA in physics allows you to take that curiosity and turn it into discovery, while also preparing you with the tools needed to tackle problems and develop innovative solutions. Whether you’re inspired by the stars, cutting-edge technology, or groundbreaking research, a degree in physics opens pathways to shape your future.
Program Overview
The Physics BA program introduces you to core physics areas: matter and energy; waves and optics; mechanics, and more.
You will learn how to apply the fundamentals of physics to creative problem solving in fields like business, engineering, communications, health sciences, or whatever career path you choose. Whether you want to enhance your primary degree or learn more about the foundation of all the natural sciences, our Bachelor of Arts in physics offers flexible pathways and coursework that will help you hit the ground running.
The Department of Physics and Astronomy currently offers Honors options, two minors, and a Physics BS option for students interested in pursuing graduate study or research opportunities in physics.
Honors
The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers an Honors pathway for students interested in more advanced, rigorous coursework. Students will complete an original research project in the form of a senior thesis. They must also maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.25 and a 3.50 GPA in 300- and 400-level math and physics courses.
Minors
Our minors include:
- Physics minor
- Astronomy minor
If you’re interested in supplementing your primary field of study, our physics and astronomy minors would be a great fit. These programs will provide you with fundamental knowledge of physics, as well as introductions to stellar structures and general relativity.
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Physics
If you’re more interested in pursuing graduate studies and being on the cutting-edge of research opportunities, our Bachelor of Science in physics would be a great option.
Why Study Physics?
At UT, a BA in physics offers you opportunities to gain hands-on experience, work with expert faculty, and engage with peers who share your interests.
Gains Hands-On Physics Experience
At UT you have the advantage of working in our campus lab facilities including the Institute for Advanced Materials and Manufacturing (IAMM) or the Center for Advanced Materials and Manufacturing (CAMM), giving you expert skills in problem-solving, collaboration, and data analysis in rapidly-growing fields like quantum materials.
Learn from Expert Faculty
Many of our physics faculty have joint appointments at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Seventeen are part of UT’s Quantum Materials for Future Technologies (QMFT) Research Cluster, four are fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and 10 are fellows of the American Physical Society. These accolades demonstrate UT’s commitment to excellence and our remarkably collegial atmosphere.
Find Your Community
The Department of Physics and Astronomy’s student organizations bring together like-minded individuals with a shared love of all things physics. Some of our current student organizations include the Society of Physics Students and the Astronomy Club.
What Can You Do with a BA in Physics After Graduation?
Studying physics at UT equips you with an innovative, advanced set of skills that prepares you for a multitude of careers.
Physics graduates often go into engineering, working as software engineers, optical engineers, or systems engineers. They translate their technical skills into careers as data analysts and programmers, research technicians and assistants, and IT professionals. They become project managers, teachers, medical physicists, and geophysics specialists.
Our alumni are successful in many professions, bringing their knowledge to science careers and beyond. With a Bachelor of Arts in physics you’ll be prepared for any career paths you might encounter.
Featured Courses
PHYS 251 Fundamentals of Physics: Waves, Optics, and the Breakdown of Classical Physics
This course explores oscillations, waves, optics, and the breakdown of nineteenth century physics, and special relativity. Topics covered include simple harmonic motion; mechanical waves; sound; geometric optics; interference; diffraction; and special relativity. This course includes a laboratory component that may be incorporated into the class time in a studio physics modality. Basic scientific computing will be integrated into the course.
PHYS 252 Fundamentals of Physics: Quantum Physics and Applications
This course explores the fundamentals of quantum physics and applications to solid state physics, nuclear physics, particle physics, and cosmology. Topics covered include: the nature of photons; Wave particle duality; Application of the Schrödinger Equation to simple steps and barriers; and Models of single- and multi-electron atoms. This course includes a laboratory component that may be incorporated into the class time in a studio physics modality. Basic scientific computing will be integrated into the course.
PHYS 361 Electronics Laboratory
Topics covered in this course include electronic devices and instrumentation techniques in the physics laboratory and basic analog and digital electronics, including elementary building blocks of relevance to data acquisition systems, operation amplifiers, digital-to-analog and analog-to-digital conversion, use of standard laboratory instruments, and applications of microcomputers.
PHYS 461 Modern Physics Laboratory
This course serves as an introduction to fundamental and modern techniques in experimental physics and to the theory and practice of measurement and data analysis. There will be selected experiments in nuclear, atomic, molecular and solid state physics, and modern optics.
Complementary Majors, Minors, and Certificates
Looking to enhance your degree? Consider these programs as a complement to your primary major.
Looking For More Options?
The College of Arts and Sciences offers students the broadest range of academic programs and opportunities for research and creative activities at the University of Tennessee, powered by faculty expertise across every discipline.
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