Bachelor of Arts & Bachelor of Science in Physics

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Bachelor of Arts & Bachelor of Science in Physics

What Will I Learn in the Physics Major?

Why does time flow in one direction? What’s happening at the edge of the observable universe? Does nature really abide by the laws of nature? Questions like these may spark your imagination about the world around you. In University of Portland’s (UP) bachelor’s degree programs in physics, you are encouraged to lean into your curiosity as you build a plan of study aligned with your interests and goals.

Choose from two degree options:

  • Bachelor of arts (BA) in physics: designed for students seeking a broader exposure to coursework in the liberal arts and humanities and includes the flexibility to double major in another discipline such as biology, environmental science, life sciences, and more
  • Bachelor of science (BS) in physics: dives deeply into a broader range of the physics field, offering a more science- and laboratory-intensive curriculum

Both the BA and BS programs emphasize experiential learning and ethical decision-making, positioning you to make a positive impact on your path to success.

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BA in Physics Courses

The bachelor of arts in physics pathway features required courses in calculus, chemistry, physics lab, and mathematical methods for science and engineering.

BA Degree Requirements

BS in Physics Courses

The BS in physics program has a set of required courses in calculus, computer science, physics lab, computational methods, analog and digital electronics, linear algebra, and ordinary differential equations. You also participate in advanced laboratory coursework, exploring concepts like atomic and nuclear physics and electricity and magnetism.

BS Degree Requirements

Physics and Mathematics Education Preparation Track

The physics and mathematics education preparation track leads you to a bachelor of science degree while preparing you to pursue a teaching career through a master of arts in teaching (MAT) degree program.

University Core

At University of Portland, the Core Curriculum amplifies the physics major through comprehensive liberal arts study. Gain the skills necessary to become a trailblazer in the scientific world: critical analysis, effective communication, ethical understanding, and dedication to advancing the common good.

The Core

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More than a Degree

UP’s academic experience builds robust technical knowledge enriched by hands-on learning and professional development.

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Undergraduate Research

Participate in faculty-led research projects during the academic year or summer break, applying your coursework to design solutions for real-world problems. Contribute to the knowledge base in the field while gaining valuable skills that prepare you for your next step after graduation.

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Professional Physics Societies

As a physics major, you can participate in professional organizations like the American Physical Society and the Society of Physics Students. Build your network, attend career-focused events, and participate in the professional physics community.

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Holy Cross Tradition

UP’s Holy Cross identity and values infuse a sense of purpose into the bachelor’s in physics degree program. Alongside your skill-building coursework, you’ll also develop a refined vision of how to translate your knowledge into solutions that contribute to the greater good.

The UP Difference

See what defines the UP student experience.

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CAS Students Won Nationally Competitive Scholarships In 2024

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“Regional Universities – West” by U.S. News & World Report

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A University of Portland physics professor stands in front of a digital projection screen and gestures with his hands while speaking during a classroom lecture.

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Student-Faculty Ratio

Physics Student Spotlight

"Seeing the world through the lens of physics allowed me to view all things from their base principles, and my opportunity to be involved in a year-long research project taught me to patiently accept the non-linear nature of scientific progress. Studying physics at UP has revealed to me that a good education prepares you for the world, but the best education cultivates a restless curiosity for truth that outpaces any level of static preparedness. My professors have been gracious and enthusiastically supportive of all my endeavors through my four years at UP."

Samuel Cowdery ‘19, MS in Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Notre Dame, Solutions Architect at Stripe

Careers and Outcomes

The BA and BS in physics degree programs prepare you with in-demand skills, a keen sense of ethical judgment, deep critical thinking abilities, and a bold sense of wonder that carries you into graduate studies or the first step of your career.

Jobs with a Degree in Physics

The physics major provides a versatile skill set and analytical perspective that makes you an excellent candidate for roles such as:

  • Data Scientist
  • Design Engineer
  • Lab Technician
  • Programmer
  • R & D Engineer
  • Research Analyst
  • Technical Writer

Graduate Studies

UP physics students have pursued a range of graduate programs at institutions including:

  • Notre Dame University
  • Oregon State University
  • Purdue University
  • San Diego State University
  • Texas A&M University
  • Trinity College Dublin
  • University of Colorado
  • University of Oregon
  • University of Utah
  • Vanderbilt University

Alumni Employers

Portland physics alumni are making an impact at a range of organizations such as:

  • Block Engineering
  • Cherry Creek School District
  • Onto Innovation
  • Stripe

Related Degrees

Close-up of a UP chemistry student, looking downward with a focused, serious expression, as they use a pipette in a laboratory setting.

BS in Chemistry

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BSME in Mechanical Engineering

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BS, BA in Biology

Push the Boundaries of Human Knowledge

Transform your curiosity about the fundamental laws of nature into a rewarding career through UP’s bachelor of science or bachelor of arts in physics degree programs. Experience dynamic coursework accented by hands-on learning, preparing you to address society’s most pressing challenges.

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