The B.A. in Natural Sciences serves as a waiver program for the Single Subject Teaching Credential in Science. The degree is also a suitable choice for students with a general interest in physics and interest in pursuing a career in law, medicine, dentistry, optometry, and other areas for which the breadth of scientific coverage of this degree is advantageous.

Physics is the most fundamental of the sciences and is an important part of a liberal-arts education. Introductory courses are designed for students in all majors and provide a background in physical principles, the observation of natural processes, the logic and nature of science, and the diverse applications of physics.

This program offers students the greatest flexibility in choosing courses of interest. Imaginative combinations are possible which enable the student to relate the study of physics to wide-ranging areas such as the social sciences and the fine arts as well as the other Natural Sciencess.

This program offers students the greatest flexibility in choosing courses of interest. Imaginative combinations are possible which enable the student to relate the study of physics to wide-ranging areas such as the social sciences and the fine arts as well as the other Natural Sciencess.

The physics B.A. program provides a good concentration in physics courses and a broad distribution in the liberal arts. It prepares students for technical or technically related graduate school studies or employment. Mathematics preparation through precalculus is required.

The BA program is designed for students who are not currently planning to attend physics graduate school and/or who want to pursue parallel studies in other fields such as mathematics, biology, chemistry, computer science, engineering, business, pre-med, pre-law, and teacher education. All students in the below listed programs must successfully complete the below science and math coursework without earning three (3) D and/or F grades. Students unable to successfully complete these courses within these prescribed parameters will be required to select a different major and will not be permitted to take any additional courses offered by the below Departments/Divisions. In addition, registration for all courses offered by these departments will be dependent on students meeting the prescribed parameters regardless of their major.

Students who take a physics course will learn problem-solving skills and concepts that can be applied to the other sciences. Many of the programs you will pursue recommend or require a class in physics. A minor in physics strengthens any degree you obtain and shows employers in all fields that you are able to think critically and analytically.

If you have a passion for challenging coursework, practical applications, and problem-solving, a Bachelor of Arts degree in physics may be a great option. You will discover a strong interrelationship among mathematics, computer science, and physics, reflecting the faculty’s longstanding focus on helping the student find the right program for their skills and interests.

Physics has led to many of the world’s most exciting inventions, from computers and the World Wide Web, to lasers and X-ray technology. But when it comes to the natural laws of the physical universe, there is still much to be discovered. In this program, you will study the nature and behavior of matter and energy, with a focus on classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism, modern physics, quantum mechanics and thermal physics. You will learn to apply this knowledge to solve complex scientific puzzles in medicine, technology, energy and many other areas. Physics majors gain hands-on experience designing and conducting experiments using the very latest research techniques and computer technologies. The department also offers special research opportunities through the department’s Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program, sponsored by the National Science Foundation.

Are you strong in physics and math, but also drawn to the life sciences? The bachelor of science degree in biological physics might be for you.Our program is both interdisciplinary and integrated: you will master the techniques of mathematics, physics, chemistry and biology, and then learn to apply them to questions of biology and medicine.

Physics is a quest for understanding the principles that govern vastly diverse phenomena, from subatomic particles to our entire universe of stars and galaxies. It lies at the foundation of all natural science and supports numerous areas of engineering and technology shaping our way of life. At the Department of Physics and Astronomy, students enjoy small, rigorous classes working one-on-one with dedicated professors. Explore your interests further in Directed Studies, get involved in a research project, present your findings, study abroad, and gain work experience with local industry.

The UMBC Physics Department has 25 faculty, roughly 56 graduate students, and 120 undergraduate majors. Our department’s research is centered in 4 main areas: astrophysics, atmospheric physics, condensed matter physics, and quantum optics and quantum information.

Physics, the study of space, time, matter, and energy, is a fundamental component of a liberal arts education. Introductory courses in physics and astronomy are designed to give students a broad background in the fundamentals of the discipline, an introduction to the logic and philosophy of science, and insight into the understanding and applications of contemporary physics and astrophysics. Advanced courses provide greater depth and sophistication as the student's background in physics and mathematics develops.

The Department of Physics offers students the opportunity to pursue some of nature’s deepest secrets.

Students pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Physics choose an emphasis in either Computation or Innovation.