Bachelor of Science in Physics

The Physics Program offers a rigorous curriculum and flexible career choices. The Applied Physics option provides both fundamental courses that lead to a deep understanding of physics and hands-on courses where students learn practical technical skills.  The Applied Physics option  provides career opportunities such as graduate school, engineering, or high-tech companies. It prepares students to excel in technical careers based on a background of physics, mathematics, and computer science.  The Physics Education option prepares those students who would like to pursue a career teaching in a secondary school.   Teaching physics and science to middle and high school students is a rewarding profession that enables students to achieve their dreams and that prepares them to live and work in a science and technology rich society.   Good science teachers are in high demand and the teacher candidates learn both science content and how to teach science effectively.

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Solve quantitative problems in classical mechanics, electricity & magnetism and modern physics.
2. Interpret mathematical models such as formulas, graphs, tables and schematics.
3. Apply appropriate mathematical concepts and models for solving problems in classical and modern physics.
4. Analyze experimental results.
5. Design an experiment(s) to test a hypothesis.
6. Interpret experimental data to make meaningful comparisons between experiment and theory.
7. Identify sources of experimental uncertainty and error.
8. Present research in a form consistent with the American Institute of Physics style manual
9. Relate research to a general audience.

Program Requirements

For more information about degree requirements, visit the NSU catalog.

• Roadmap (pdf)

Teacher Education Admission and Certification Policies

In addition to courses in the discipline, all students completing a baccalaureate degree that leads to teacher certification must meet the following requirements for certification.

• Be accepted for admission to teacher education, pre-II internship, and full internship according to published course sequence and guidelines.
• Demonstrate proficiency at the high novice level in a language other than English.
• Complete all courses in the major and Professional Education Core with a grade of “C” or higher.
• Students entering NSU beginning Fall 2013 must have an overall GPA of 2.75 for admission to teacher education.
• Once admitted to the teacher education program, all majors must continue to maintain a GPA of 2.5 (overall and in their major field of study) through completion.
• 4 X 12 requirement - Early Childhood, Elementary Education, and Special Education programs require completion of 12 semester hours with a grade of “C” or better in the following disciplines: Communication Arts (English, Communication, Literature), Math, Science, and Social Science (Economics, Geography, History, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology) prior to graduation.
• All Professional Education majors must complete PSYC 1003 or PSYC 1113.  Advisors recommend those courses be completed as part of the General Education course sequence.