About this Program
Old Dominion University offers a Bachelor of Science degree in physics. Explore the laws that govern matter, energy and the universe while building a strong foundation in classical and modern physics. Develop skills in mathematical modeling, experimentation, programming and scientific problem-solving through hands-on laboratory experiences and faculty-supervised research.
Prepare for graduate study in physics or related disciplines, or pursue careers in technology and other fields that value analytical and quantitative reasoning. ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ also offers professional and teacher preparation pathways and dual degree options that combine physics with electrical engineering or business.
Program Highlights
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Faculty mentored research — Work with a faculty member on an experimental, theoretical, or computational senior thesis and communicate your findings in a written report and oral presentation.
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Connections to Jefferson Lab — ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½â€™s Center for Accelerator Science, established with the nearby , offers undergraduate research opportunities and access to facilities at both institutions.
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Research across modern physics — Explore a department active in nuclear and particle physics; atomic, molecular, and optical physics; accelerator science; and condensed matter and materials science.
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Experimental and computational training — Learn to use laboratory instrumentation, interpret data, and apply numerical methods to physical problems through dedicated advanced courses.
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Pathways matched to your goals — Choose preparation for physics graduate study, combine physics with another field through the professional program, pursue teacher preparation, or explore dual degrees in electrical engineering or business.
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A community for physics students — Connect through the Society of Physics Students and use the Physics Learning Center for academic support.
Featured Courses
Requirements
Students entering the Physics B.S. program must meet ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½â€™s undergraduate admission requirements. First year and transfer applicants should apply through Undergraduate Admissions and consult the department to plan their physics and mathematics coursework.
The degree requires at least 120 credit hours, completion of general education and major requirements, a senior thesis, and required assessments. Physics majors must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.00 overall and in the major and meet the catalog’s course grade requirements. Requirements differ for teacher preparation and dual degree pathways.
Transfer
ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful...
Careers
Check out these ideas from ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½'s Center for Career & Leadership Development and the . A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Conduct research on nuclear engineering projects or apply principles and theory of nuclear science to problems concerned with release, control, and use of nuclear energy and nuclear waste disposal.
Coordinate activities of technical departments, such as taping, editing, engineering, and maintenance, to produce radio or television programs.
Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team.
Alumni Careers
Cost
Tuition is charged per credit hour. Amounts shown are tuition only and do not include mandatory fees, technology-delivered course fees, course-specific fees, books, housing, meal plans, or other costs. Campus-based students may take technology-delivered or online courses. Tuition is based on student classification. Fees for technology-delivered courses and other costs are listed on the ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ tuition and fees page.
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½. For more information visit University Student Financial Aid.
The Clifford L. and Lillian R. Adams Scholarship supports declared physics majors, including entering freshmen, transfer students, and continuing students. Selection considers academic achievement and recommendations; the award is renewable.
Students preparing to teach physics may also be eligible for the Barbara Lotze Scholarship for Future Teachers.
Learn more at Scholarships & Financial Aid for Physics Undergraduates.
Students may also apply for university scholarships and financial aid.
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