Undergraduate Program Overview
The undergraduate physics curricula provide students with a strong background in the classical areas of physics as well as an introduction to the more important aspects of modern physics. The bachelor of science curriculum is directed toward preparing students for graduate study, ultimately leading to the doctorate degree or toward research and development work in industrial or governmental laboratories. It also provides a good background for graduate study or industrial work in many areas of engineering, physics and applied science, such as materials science and engineering (PDF).
The bachelor of arts in physics program is ideal for students interested in acquiring a broad-based liberal arts education that includes a strong and solid understanding of either science or a broad exposure to engineering with a strong physics foundation.
The bachelor of science with biophysics concentration offers excellent preparation for medical school or graduate work in biological sciences. It includes the flexibility of selecting courses in chemistry, biological sciences, physics and mathematics. This concentration also provides the necessary background for employment in industry, manufacturing and instrumentation for clinical or molecular biology applications.
One Department, Many Options
Bachelor of Arts
The bachelor of arts curriculum is ideal for students interested in acquiring a broad-based liberal education that includes a strong and solid understanding of either science or a broad exposure to engineering with a strong physics foundation.
Students also have the option to pursue a double major in physics and science teaching — physics, which prepares students for teaching physics on the secondary school level and for graduate studies in physics. Students declare the double major using the appropriate program form. More information about the curriculum is available in the online catalog.
- Prospective students: View the current undergraduate catalog. Archived catalogs may also be available for reference.
- Current students: Refer to the catalog corresponding to your year of matriculation for detailed information. Browse the Clemson University Catalog System.
Bachelor of Science
The bachelor of science curriculum is directed toward preparing students for graduate study, ultimately leading to a doctorate degree or toward research and development work in industrial or governmental laboratories. It also provides a good background for graduate study or industrial work in many areas or engineering physics and applied science.
- Prospective students: View the current undergraduate catalog. Archived catalogs may also be available for reference.
- Current students: Refer to the catalog corresponding to your year of matriculation for detailed information. Browse the Clemson University Catalog System.
Interdisciplinary Emphasis Area (B.S.)
The study of physics provides an excellent foundation for the pursuit for a wide variety of intellectual pursuits. The interdisciplinary option is a customizable degree that allows you to work with an advisory to build on the physics curriculum to design your own degree. Our students have combined the study of physics with many fields including art, philosophy, neuroscience, engineering, economics, forensic science, astronomy and pre-med. Whether your goal is to pursue a career as a data scientist, a doctor or a lawyer, physics provides the problem-solving tools and critical thinking skills to be a leader in your chosen profession.
- Prospective students: View the current undergraduate catalog. Archived catalogs may also be available for reference.
- Current students: Refer to the catalog corresponding to your year of matriculation for detailed information. Browse the Clemson University Catalog System.
READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP?
Apply to the Department of Physics
Society of Physics Students
Physics Students Get Involved
The Clemson Society of Physics Students is an undergraduate student organization for physics students and a chapter of the National Society of Physics Students. The society hosts a variety of events for physics students that encourage socialization and community outreach. In addition, mentoring is offered via a buddy system that pairs freshmen and sophomores with upperclassmen.
Connect With the Society