Mar 04, 2026  
[DRAFT] 2026-27 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
[DRAFT] 2026-27 Undergraduate Catalog

Physics, B.S.

Location(s): On Campus


[text graphic] Program Description [linked graphic] Program Student Learning Outcomes [linked graphic] Admission, Enrollment, and Graduation Criteria [linked graphic] Program Course Requirements [linked graphic] Have Questions? Contact Us!

Program Description

The program of study in physics leading to a Bachelor of Science degree provides students with the opportunity to pursue a major field of concentration in physics with the necessary specialization to succeed in a wide array of post-baccalaureate opportunities. The following concentrations include the course work and experience necessary for student success.  See an academic advisor for specific course information and important aspects of each of these concentrations.

General Physics Concentration: Physics is the study of matter, motion, force, and energy across space and time. Physicists develop theories and perform experiments to understand the physical world including everything from the elementary constituents of a proton, electric and magnetic phenomena, lasers, high tech materials, and black holes. The general physics concentration will provide students with a broad conceptual understanding of physical phenomena and technical problem-solving skills. Students who earn bachelor’s degrees in physics are well prepared to pursue advanced graduate degrees in physics or related areas of study. It also prepares students for 21st-century careers in government and industry as professional physicists.

Electrical Engineering Concentration: This concentration in electrical engineering combines the study of physics with electrical engineering by further broadening knowledge and skills. In addition, a degree with an electrical engineering concentration will increase the marketability of the physics student.

Mechanical Engineering Concentration: This concentration in mechanical engineering combines the study of physics with mechanical engineering. This curriculum design helps to further broaden the students’ analytical skills. In addition, a degree with a mechanical engineering concentration will increase the marketability of the physics student.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete this program will be able to: 

  1. Recall, identify, and apply fundamental concepts of physics.
  2. Solve problems involving multiple areas of physics with advanced mathematical techniques, physical modeling, and computational calculations.
  3. Identify and measure physical quantities using experimental/computational methods to test, measure, interpret, and assess the results using data analysis.
  4. Communicate scientific ideas using oral and/or written presentations.

 This program is a part of the College of Science and Mathematics .

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Admissions, Enrollment, and Graduation Criteria

Admissions Criteria

Admission to this program is open to all students who meet Kennesaw State University’s general admission standards. Visit the Admissions  section of the Catalog for more details.

Enrollment Criteria

This program does not have specific enrollment criteria; however, students are expected to meet the requirements of Academic Policy 4.0 ACADEMIC STANDING, DISMISSAL, & REINSTATEMENT .

Graduation Criteria

Each student is expected to meet the requirements outlined in Academic Policy 5.0 PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS & GRADUATION .

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Program Course Requirements

Core IMPACTS Curriculum (42 Credit Hours)


 

Core IMPACTS Curriculum Requirements Specific to This Major:


Physics Majors should take MATH 1113  or higher in Mathematics and Quantitative Skills and MATH 1179  or higher and (PHYS 2211  and PHYS 2211L ) and (PHYS 2212  and PHYS 2212L ) in Technology, Mathematics, and Sciences. Other options are available, please see an advisor for details; however, selection of other options in IMPACTS may lengthen time to graduation.

Core Field of Study (18 Credit Hours)


Students must earn a grade of “C” or better in these courses.

Major Requirements (18 Credit Hours)


Students must earn a grade of “C” or better in these courses.

Major Concentrations (42 Credit Hours)


Students must earn a grade of “C” or better in these courses.

General Physics Concentration


Required Physics Courses (18 Credit Hours)


  • Any 3000 or 4000-level of PHYS courses for 15 credit hours*
  • *May include a maximum of 6 credits of PHYS 3110: Directed Methods or PHYS 4400: Directed Study.

Required Physics Laboratory (6 Credit Hours)


Take 6 credit hours of PHYS 3000-level K/L or PHYS 4000-level K/L courses

University Electives (18 Credit Hours)


In accordance with KSU Graduation Policy, students must earn a grade of “D” or better in these courses while maintaining a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA.
Upper Division Elective (3 Credit Hours)

Select 3 credit hours of 3000-4000 level coursework from the University Catalog. Courses may be taken from any department, but it is recommended that students integrate their physics interests.
Free Electives (15 Credit Hours)

Select 15 credit hours of 1000-4000 level coursework from the University Catalog.

Electrical Engineering Concentration


Required Physics Courses (9 Credit Hours)


Upper-Division Electives (8 Credit Hours)


Select 8 credit hours of 3000-4000 level coursework from the University Catalog.

Mechanical Engineering Concentration


Program Total (120 Credit Hours)