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Physics, B.S.

College of Arts and Sciences

Explore the fundamental laws that govern the universe. Gain the problem-solving, project management and independent research skills important for careers in education, industry and research.

Study the core areas of physics, and participate in cutting-edge research with our distinguished faculty. Build a foundation of knowledge and practical skills to enter the workforce, continue to graduate school or pursue a medical or law degree. Our physics program also offers an interdisciplinary engineering concentration with electrical and mechanical tracks.

Program Highlights

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    Active Learning

    Work together to solve problems, conduct experiments and learn new concepts with your classmates.

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    Research Skills

    Study real-world physics problems early in your college experience through research groups working on campus and at other institutions.

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    Career Options

    Pursue a career in academia, research, industry and more with our broad curriculum combined with laboratory research.

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    Supportive Community

    Enjoy learning through department activities and guest speakers, and join our active chapter of the Society of Physics Students.

What You’ll Study

Study central areas of physics, Newtonian mechanics, electricity and magnetism, statistical physics and quantum mechanics. Choose from specialized experimental courses, or design a research program with a faculty member. Our interdisciplinary engineering concentration expands on fundamental physics with mechanical or electrical engineering.

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Building Skills

Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.

  • Laboratory Research

    Conducting experiments and analyzing data to gain new knowledge and insights in a scientific field

    Innovation

    Introducing new ideas, methods or products to improve performance or achieve a specific goal

    Teaching

    Foster learning by conveying knowledge, skills and concepts to students

  • Analytical Reasoning

    Breaking down complex problems or situations to identify patterns, connections and solutions

    Critical Thinking

    Analyzing and evaluating information to make informed decisions or judgments

    Research

    Gathering and analyzing information to increase knowledge or solve problems

Using your degree

Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.

Potential Careers

  • Research Scientist
  • Professor/Educator
  • Engineer
  • Doctor
  • Patent Lawyer
  • Business Executive

Workplace Settings

  • Education
  • Medicine
  • Law
  • Business
  • Research
  • Academia

Advanced Degrees

Advance your career or options with post-graduate education.

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Is USC Right For You?

There are many reasons we could be your ideal university. There's the award-winning academics, the globally modeled student life, and abundance of study abroad and experiential learning options. Take a closer look at what USC could mean for you.

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Degree content is provided for informational purposes only. The Academic Bulletin is the source of record for all degree information.
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