BA in Physics at Boston University

The undergraduate Physics major at Boston University gives students a foundation of knowledge and problem-solving ability on which they can build a variety of careers. The Physics Department prides itself on the quality of its teaching while also maintaining a vigorous research program. The diverse faculty ensures majors an opportunity for close interaction with their instructors and mentors. Students are encouraged to participate in ongoing research projects; many students get involved as early as their sophomore year. Qualified students can enroll as seniors in independent projects leading to a degree with honors (CAS PY 401/402).

In addition to on-campus research, in the spring semester of their junior year, students may participate in the Geneva Physics Program. The Geneva Program, in cooperation with the University of Geneva, brings students directly to the cutting edge of modern physics. With classes at the University of Geneva and directed research at CERN, students work with the world’s leading physicists to explore the universe on the level of its most basic constituent particles. 

Although many of our graduates continue their careers in physics or astronomy, a BA in physics also prepares students for careers in areas such as industrial research and development, engineering, environmental science, medical physics, geophysics, oceanography, computer science, and energy resource management. It is also ideal preparation for entering professional schools, such as medicine, law, teaching, engineering, or management.

Reflecting the diversity of careers available to our students, the department offers two curricular track options: the Interdisciplinary Option, which gives students the flexibility to combine physics with another focus area in an interdisciplinary program, and the Graduate Option, which is intended to prepare students for the study of physics or a closely related subject in graduate school.