Physics

Physics moves the world forward – transforming ideas into discoveries and theories into technologies. Physicists develop next-generation semiconductors that power smartphones and design solar cells that combat climate change.

At Bowling Green State University, our Bachelor of Science in physics prepares you with a solid foundation and practical skills to lead in science, research and innovation. You’ll master experimental investigation and theoretical understanding of matter, energy and the laws governing our universe.

Learning by doing is a central theme at BGSU. Our hands-on approach and wealth of undergraduate research opportunities means you’re not just learning physics – you’re immersed in it. Research is often available only to graduate students at other universities.

Our students analyze materials for semiconductor applications, explore the cosmos by pairing the physics degree with the BGSU astronomy minor and conduct original research alongside faculty mentors. Physics majors acquire the scientific skills and problem-solving abilities that make them invaluable job candidates across industries – and prime candidates for competitive graduate programs.

Why study physics at BGSU in Ohio?

Small class sizes. We combine the rigor expected of the best physics programs in the U.S. with personalized attention you won’t find at massive research universities. You’ll work directly with expert professors who know your name and care about your success.
State-of-the-art laboratories. All physics majors gain hands-on experience with advanced measurement techniques and microcomputer-based data acquisition. Our cutting-edge facilities include:
- Femtosecond non-linear optics lab
- Ion-pumped UHV system with FFT infrared spectrometer
- ESR system with Tesla magnets
- Cryostats for metals and superconductors
- An rf SQUID system for ultra-sensitive voltage measurements

Get ahead of the research game. It’s never too early to join a physics research lab and work on actual research. All research groups accept motivated undergraduate students at any time. Study material science, theoretical physics, astrophysics and more!
On-campus connections. Join the Society of Physics Students for additional learning, discussion and to enjoy the social side of physics.

Weekly physics seminars introduce visiting scholars and homegrown research.

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Career - what can you do with a physics degree?

When people ask, “What jobs can you get with a physics degree?,” the answer isn’t simple. The analytical thinking, mathematical skills and problem-solving abilities developed in physics are highly transferable. This makes BGSU physics degree graduates attractive candidates across many fields and beyond traditional physics roles.

Our Bachelor of Science in physics degree prepares you to lead in a broad range of boundary-pushing industries:

Astronomy
Education
Government
Scientific research/academia
Computer science
Engineering
Product development and more

Many physics graduates also choose to go on to competitive graduate programs in areas like:

Applied physics
Geophysics
Aerospace engineering
Electrical or mechanical engineering
Computational science and engineering
Biophysics
Astronomy
Chemistry
Business
Law and more

Physics degree jobs (particularly with a master’s degree) consistently rank among the highest-paying STEM careers. Salaries exceed the national average by 150%. Projected industry growth far outpaces other career fields (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Career paths

Energy analyst
Engineering technician
Environmental consultant
Geophysicist (entry-level)
Laboratory technician
Nuclear power plant operator
Patent analyst
Quality assurance engineer
Renewable energy product developer
Science writer
Technical consultant

Quick Facts from the Bureau of Labor Statistics

View average salaries

Curriculum

The rigorous 120-credit physics program cultivates analytical thinking and problem solving and combines:

Core physics coursework
A strong mathematical foundation (three semesters of calculus)
Recommended chemistry coursework
A well-rounded liberal arts education through BG Perspective requirements

You’ll explore humanities, arts, social sciences and world languages while completing our unique multidisciplinary component – four advanced courses across different fields that let you discover unexpected connections between physics and other disciplines.

Choose a conventional minor or our distinctive “general science” minor designed specifically for physics degree majors.

Required courses

physics professor and students in classroom

Sample courses

Observational Astronomy
Mathematical and Computational Physics
Modern Physics
Quantum Mechanics
Solid State Physics
Thermal Physics and Optics

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Physics minor

The physics minor at BGSU provides students with a solid foundation in fundamental physics principles while complementing their major field of study.

This 21-credit program develops theoretical understanding and practical skills. It prepares students to:

Demonstrate thorough conceptual knowledge of basic physics
Manipulate physical constructs using mathematical computational methods
Operate experimental apparatus
Communicate scientific ideas effectively in oral and written formats

The comprehensive physics minor equips students with valuable analytical and problem-solving skills that boost career prospects across diverse fields, including engineering, medicine, technology and research.

The Bachelor of Science in physics is part of the Department of Physics and Astronomy in the BGSU College of Arts and Sciences.

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Updated: 08/21/2025 02:25PM