Physics, BA


At a Glance: program details

  • Location: Tempe campus, or online
  • Additional Program Fee: No
  • Second Language Requirement: No
  • Math Intensity: Substantial program math intensity substantial
  • Initial Math Course: MAT 270 - Calculus w/Analytic Geometry I

Required Courses (Major Map)

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Major Map on-campus archive

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Learn nature's most fundamental laws to understand the world around us. Through rigorous foundational coursework, you'll learn to analyze complex problems and gain valuable quantitative reasoning skills that can be applied to any technical field.

Program Description

Physics is concerned with the nature, structure and interactions of matter and radiation. The BA program in physics provides a flexible and efficient option for students who are interested in a liberal arts degree that provides them a broad knowledge of physics. This degree program also is ideal for students seeking to complete two degrees, with physics as the second degree.

The program combines innovative learning methods with time-tested classroom and laboratory experiences for an education that is thorough in physics training and flexible enough to encourage interdisciplinary opportunities in areas such as chemistry, biology and materials science.

In addition to reviewing the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit The College's website for more information and requirements.




Admission Requirements

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.

Freshman Transfer International Readmission


Transfer Options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use the Transfer Map search to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and help students save time and money in their college journey. Students may learn more about these programs by visiting the admission site: https://admission.asu.edu/transfer/pathway-programs.


Change of Major Requirements

Current ASU students wishing to change their major to physics should have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00 for all critical classes they have completed.

Students should refer to https://changingmajors.asu.edu for information about how to change a major to this program.


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Career Outlook

Graduates with a Bachelor of Arts degree in physics may pursue such careers as:

  • data analyst
  • K-12 STEM teacher
  • lab assistant
  • patent scientist
  • science writer
  • technology support analyst

Example Careers

Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:

Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education


  • Growth: 0.7%
  • Median Salary*: 61690

Natural Sciences Managers


  • Growth: 4.8%
  • Median Salary*: 144440
  Bright Outlook

Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education


  • Growth: 0.8%
  • Median Salary*: 61810

Technical Writers


  • Growth: 6.9%
  • Median Salary*: 79960
  Bright Outlook

* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).



Global Opportunities

Global Experience

Students majoring in physics can study abroad in one of over 300 available programs. A study abroad experience offers a way to supplement the ASU experience as well as the chance to build helpful, resume-boosting skills that employers seek. Students who study abroad improve their communication skills, can learn to adapt to unforeseen challenges and expand their worldview through international experiences that open them to different points of view.

Attend Online

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program description and request more information here.



Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.