students working on physics research

Physics Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Explore the natural laws of the universe and prepare for a rewarding career in scientific discovery.

Studying physics allows you to understand the workings of the universe at the most fundamental level. A B.S. in Physics from UND opens the door to careers in astronomy, physics, engineering and beyond.

Program type:
Major
Format:
On Campus
Est. time to complete:
4 years
Credit hours:
120 (major)

Why earn a physics degree?

Application Deadlines
Fall:
Aug. 16
Spring:
Dec. 15
Summer:
May 1

Physics is the foundation for every other science and engineering field. When you study physics at UND, the universe is your classroom.

The Physics degree at UND offers several specialization options:

  • General Physics
  • Applied Physics
  • Astrophysics
  • Computers in Physics
  • Materials Science

We also offer two minors:

Each option features our signature combination of hands-on learning, close relationships with faculty and access to modern equipment.

UND's Physics Degree

  • Participate in the NASA Student Launch as a member of the UND Rocket Team

  • Apply for physics scholarships.

  • Collaborate with faculty on in-depth research

  • Gain valuable research experience working on faculty-supervised research projects

  • Participate in regularly scheduled Colloquia on physics and astronomy topics.

  • Let our team of academic advisors help you plan your major. You'll also have access to personalized Degree Map software to keep you on track to graduate in four years.

What can you do with a physics degree?

122K

Median annual salary for physicists and astronomers

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

9%

Anticipated industry growth for physicists and astronomers

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

A Physics major from UND opens the door to fulfilling careers in physics, astronomy, education and beyond. Some top career choices for physics majors with the appropriate graduate education include:

  • Professional physicist for high-tech companies, government laboratories or the defense sector
  • Teaching at the university level
  • Medical physics
  • Computer programming
  • Space exploration
  • Medicine
  • Patent law

UND physics graduates have gone on to work in places like:

  • Los Alamos National Laboratory
  • Hughes Aircraft Company
  • Technology Service Corporation
  • U.S. Senate Staff
  • Sandia National Laboratories
  • Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
  • Whiting School of Engineering

Physics Degree Courses

PHYS 431. Quantum Mechanics I. 3 Credits.

An introduction to quantum mechanics with applications to atomic structure. Prerequisite: PHYS 253. Prerequisite or Corequisite: PHYS 317 or approval of department. F, even years.

PHYS 434. Nuclear Physics. 3 Credits.

Introduction to the theory of atomic nuclei, fundamental forces and sub-atomic particles. Prerequisite: PHYS 253 or approval of instructor. F, odd years.

PHYS 460. Introduction to Astrophysics. 3 Credits.

Nature of stars. Topics include celestial mechanics, relativity, optics, stellar birth, stellar interiors and evolution, nucleosynthesis, stellar death, compact objects, black holes, neutron stars, white dwarfs, binaries and variable stars. Some topics include the use of computer tools to solve problems. Prerequisite: PHYS 253 or approval of instructor. F, even years.

PHYS 320. Introduction to Materials Science. 3 Credits.

An introduction to solid state physics with emphasis on applications. Prerequisite: PHYS 253 or approval of department. F, even years.

PHYS 324. Thermal Physics. 3 Credits.

Thermodynamics with an introduction to statistical physics. Prerequisite: PHYS 253 or approval of instructor. S, even years.

PHYS 325L. Optics Laboratory. 1 Credit.

Laboratory to accompany Physics 325. Corequisite: PHYS 325. S, odd years.

Leaders in Action

UND student-athlete Katie Moller breaks barrier in STEM.

Read Katie's Story

Explore More Options

Looking to add a double major, pursue graduate work or connect with the department?

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