Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics
The School of Physics offers three undergraduate degrees, the Bachelor of Science in Physics, the Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics and the Bachelor of Science in Astrophysics.
The undergraduate applied physics degree begins with an initial emphasis on core topics such as classical and quantum mechanics, thermal physics, and electromagnetism. The program also includes lab classes in Electronics, Modern Optics and Advanced Laboratory Techniques.
In the final years of the program students take one of the following tracks:
- Nuclear and Radiological Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Physics of Living Systems (through the Physics of Living Systems Concentration)
- Selected Physics or Technical Electives
The degree program in applied physics is best suited for entry into industry or government upon graduation. Students should contact their academic advisor for assistance in planning programs of study with emphasis directed toward a particular objective.
Since some students who earn a degree in physics have transferred from other disciplines, the School has planned its degree programs to enable most students to transfer into physics with little or no loss of credit.
A total of 120 credit hours (exclusive of wellness) and a grade-point average of at least 2.0 in physics courses numbered 3000 and higher are requisites for the bachelor's degree in applied physics.
Physics: Undergraduate Information
BS/MS OPTION
The BS/MS Option allows eligible students to double count a maximum of 6 credit hours toward undergraduate and graduate requirements while still completing all other program requirements to earn both degrees.
To apply for the option, undergraduate Physics students (BS in Applied Physics, BS in Physics or BS in Astrophysics) must have at least 30 credit hours earned at Georgia Tech with an undergraduate GPA of 3.3 or higher, and fewer than 90 credits overall (including transfer credit). Applicants with more than 90 credits will be considered for the program on a case-by-case basis. It is recommended that students delay formal application to the BS/MS program until they have a reasonable estimate of the semester in which they will complete all the requirements for their BS degree.
The minimum GPA to graduate with an undergraduate degree in Applied Physics/Physics/Astrophysics to continue to the MS in Physics program is 3.0. The minimum GPA for graduation with the MS in 2.7.
Students will need to consult with an advisor to indicate which courses are sharing with the graduate degree in DegreeWorks.
BSMS Option
Undergraduate College of Engineering, College of Sciences and Computer Science majors and Master of Science with a major in Management
This option is open to all undergraduate College of Engineering and Computer Science students. Students must submit a BSMS application meet admissions criteria to be considered for the option.
Students may double count up to 6 credit hours of letter-grade 4000-level College of Engineering (if COE major), College of Sciences (if COS major), or Computer Science (if CS major) courses towards electives in the Master of Science with a major in Management (MS-MGT) program. Course selection for double-counted 4000-level courses must be approved by the MS-MGT program advisor. Students must still complete the 12 credit hour MS-MGT core.
Students are encouraged to reach out to the Scheller College of Business for more information.