Mar 28, 2024  
2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Physics, B.S.


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Physics, B.S. Degree Map  

The plan in Physics leads to the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree at the undergraduate level. Our location and the connections our faculty have with National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and allied aerospace industry allow UHCL to offer students unique research opportunities. In addition to our Physics B.S., we also offer specializations in Engineering Physics and Computational Physics, specifically designed for students interested in pursuing a career in engineering or computational sciences. The Houston-Galveston area is a thriving center for many science-intensive industries, from aerospace to petrochemical; thus, the demand for professionals with knowledge of Physics is high. Local industries in Houston provide a huge potential to employ individuals with a B.S. in Physics, in addition to the increasing demand for Physics teachers in high schools. This demand is expected to grow dramatically over the next decade. An undergraduate degree in Physics enables students to progress into graduate programs in Physics, Astronomy or Engineering. Students may select electives in areas of particular interest. Physics is a very broad discipline that can lead to a variety of career options. The UHCL Physics program provides several areas where students can develop a degree plan to support their specific career goals. Some of these focus areas include Geophysics, Biophysics, Space Physics, Computational Physics, Mathematical Physics, Materials Science, Physics Education, Pre-medical and Pre-law. Courses needed to support these focus areas are chosen in consultation with a physics adviser and faculty member from the other program.

Degree Requirements

This degree requires 120 hours and includes 42 hours of University Core. However, some of the major requirements courses listed below also satisfy University Core. If other courses are taken to satisfy University Core, the major requirements below are still necessary for graduation and substitutions are not accepted.

University Core Requirements (42 hours)


Communication (6 hours)


Mathematics (4 hours)


Additional Information


Three (3) hours of Calculus will count toward the University Core and one (1) hour will count toward the Major.

Life and Physical Sciences (6 hours)


Creative Arts (3 hours)


American History (6 hours)


Government/Political Science (6 hours)


Major Requirements (52 hours)


Major requirements must be completed with the grade of C- or better. Students seeking a B.S. degree in Physics should complete the following requirements:

Elective Requirements (25 hours)


(6 hours) Upper-level (3000-4000) PHYS/ASTR courses. (19 hours) of electives, a minimum of 11 must be upper level (3000-4000). Elective requirements must be completed with the grade of C- or better.

Engineering Physics Specialization (25 hours)


(6 hours) Upper-level (3000-4000) PHYS/ASTR electives.

Select 2 of the following: (be careful about co/prerequisites and semester offered):


Additional Information


In addition to the above listed requirements, students must complete 3 credit hours of 3000 or 4000 level elective Physics courses chosen in collaboration with the student’s faculty mentor.

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