Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics

The Bachelor of Science with a major in applied physics is a versatile undergraduate degree that prepares the student with a broad-based, intellectually challenging academic experience. A degree in physics will improve a student’s critical thinking skills and mathematical abilities greatly. The curriculum provides a solid academic foundation in physics with an emphasis on engineering applications, such as electronics and computer interfacing. The opportunity for learning is promoted by the small, friendly university environment in which students are able to seek and receive individual help outside of class. The applied physics degree program has room for electives to allow students to pursue study in an area of special interest.

Career Opportunities

The American Physical Society (APS) has recently recognized that applied/ industrial physics is the fastest growing segment of the physics community. Nearly half of all APS members are involved in industrial applications of physics.

We anticipate that graduates from this program will enter a variety of careers including those in industry, government, military service, health care and education, with industry providing the greatest interest and most opportunities. Some graduates will choose to continue their education by attending graduate or professional school. A physics degree is used by many as the gateway to career opportunities not normally thought of as being connected to physics such as meteorology, medicine, radiology, geology, and oceanography. Statistically, physics majors have the highest success rate of all science/math fields on the MCAT entrance exam to medical school.

Employers

A list of some of the potential employers of Armstrong Atlantic State University applied physics graduates includes:
: :    Corps of Engineers Southeast District Office
: :    Fort Stewart Army Post
: :    Georgia Bureau of Investigation Crime Laboratory
: :    Georgia Pacific Corporation
: :    Great Dane Trailers
: :    Georgia Ports Authority
: :    Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation
: :    Herty Foundation
: :    Hunter Army Airfield
: :    Intermarine USA
: :    International Paper
: :    Kemira, Inc.
: :    Kings’ Bay Naval Base
: :    Savannah Sugar Refinery
: :    Skidaway Institute of Oceanography
: :    and U.S. Customs Southeast Laboratory

Program Features

The location of AASU in Savannah provides many opportunities for internships in laboratories and industries. The Department is housed in the new Science Center, a state-of-the-art science facility. At-large membership in the Society of Physics Students (the Student Affiliate of APS) is possible and strongly encouraged for students to keep abreast of recent developments and career opportunities in physics. A nationally recognized American Chemical Society Student Affiliate Chapter and a Student Engineering Society provide the opportunity for students to form friendships and gain valuable experience in extracurricular activities. Armstrong Atlantic is a medium size university where academics are the top priority. Small classes taught by competent, dedicated professors provide an excellent academic environment.

Course of Study

All applied physics majors must complete at least 30 semester hours of credit in physics courses, numbered 3000 or above with a grade of C or better. In addition to completing the core curriculum requirements in humanities, laboratory science/mathematics, social science and physical education, majors take calculus (through Calculus III), linear algebra and differential equations. Tracks have been developed to allow the student to choose combinations of courses that include additional advisor-approved courses from engineering, computer science, chemistry and math that will prepare the individual student for his or her career goal. The tracks include astrophysics, biophysics, classical physics, computational physics, geophysics, nuclear/particle physics, solid-state physics and traditional applied physics.