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Physics Major

Physics Major

Study the natural world and its phenomena at the most fundamental level with the Bachelor of Science in Physics or Bachelor of Arts in Physics in the College of Science and Technology at Temple University. You will first gain a solid foundation in physics and then focus on more specialized topics. The field includes a broad range of subspecialties, including studies of atoms, macroscopic systems, properties of nuclei, the structure and origin of the universe, and subatomic particles. As part of the curriculum, you’ll also learn elementary principles of other natural sciences, such as astronomy, biology and geology.

By the end of your program, you will have gained the ability to

  • analyze physical systems, including data and error analysis, dimensional analysis and radiation detection;
  • effectively communicate your work to others;
  • study physical models using mathematical methods, including coordinate systems, single and multivariate calculus, and vector algebra; and
  • understand fundamental principles of physics and how to apply them outside of the classroom.

As a Physics Major, you will have the opportunity to undertake independent studies and research projects with your coursework. Learn more about research opportunities.

After graduation, you may pursue a career in industry, research or teaching, depending on whether you have chosen the BA or the BS path.

Choosing between the BA and the BS

The Physics BS is geared toward students who want to attend graduate school in physics or related disciplines. Those who plan to enter a career in science after graduation are also best suited for the BS.

The Physics BA is designed for those who plan to enter a nonresearch career in a field with an important science component. These fields could include environmental law enforcement, management in a high-technology industry, medicine, patent law or sales.

The Physics degree program includes a two-semester introductory sequence in classical physics and three semesters of calculus. From that point, students will take intermediate-level courses in a range of topics such as computational physics, mathematical physics and introductory modern physics.

Learn more about courses and curriculum for the Physics BA and BS.

    Physics professor lecturing to an undergraduate class

    Related Graduate Degrees

    Related Graduate Certificates

    Tuition & Fees

    In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, the Bachelor of Science offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

    Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

    These tuition costs apply to the 2025–2026 academic year.

    Pennsylvania resident: $23,856.00 per year
    Out-of-state: $39,480.00 per year

    Our Academic Advisors

    The Center for Academic Advising and Professional Development in the College of Science and Technology helps you navigate New Student Orientation, advises on specific degree programs and courses, provides post-graduation guidance, and offers peer support. You can also be matched with a qualified student advisor or advocate who will further assist with degree and academic questions or concerns.

    Learn more about the Center for Academic Advising and Professional Development’s academic advisors and the CST Peer Team.

    Program Contact

    Contact the following faculty for more information about the Physics BA or BS. 

    Zbigniew Dziembowski, associate professor of Physics, is the program contact for the Physics program.
    Phone: 215-204-7639
    Email:

    Student Clubs & Organizations

    Student clubs and organizations in the College of Science and Technology provide opportunities to meet with peers, network with professionals or scientists in your field of study, and learn about internship opportunities. The College of Science and Technology offers 15 major clubs and 12 pre-health clubs for undergraduate students. Enhance your academic study and social life by participating in a club related to your major or interests.

    Students pursuing a degree housed within the Physics Department may be interested in the following clubs and organizations.

    Explore the full list of College of Science and Technology student clubs and organizations.

    Study Away Opportunities

    Deepen your understanding of your math, natural science or computer science coursework by experiencing firsthand how such disciplines are studied overseas. Temple’s study abroad program offers College of Science and Technology students opportunities to spend a summer or semester studying in Germany, Italy, Japan and Spain. Learn more about your options for studying away.

    College of Science and Technology undergraduate students can also take part in international research. These opportunities include the following external scholarship programs.

    • The Benjamin Gilman International Scholarship provides funding for underrepresented students to study in nontraditional destinations such as Australia and Eastern Europe.
    • The Boren Scholarship Summer STEM Initiative offers undergraduate STEM majors opportunities to participate in a language-intensive program.
    • The Indian Institute of Science Education and Research and Temple offer opportunities for students in biology, chemistry and physics programs to work in research groups in Pune, India, over the summer.
    • The Siena Biomedical Research Program provides the opportunity for students to spend their summer working full time in a biotechnology and pathology lab based in Tuscany, Italy.
    • The Sicily Applied Biotechnology Program allows students to learn the biological basis behind the technology used for art conservation and then apply that knowledge in the laboratory and in the field.

    Learn more about study abroad programs for College of Science and Technology students.

    Accreditation

    As a division within Temple University, the College of Science and Technology is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    Additional Program Information