Bachelor of Science in
Physics

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Explore Matter and Energy to Develop a Deeper Understanding of the Universe and Address Societal Needs

Whether you want to study magnetic fields, develop laser technologies or advance medical imaging, you will gain a conceptual understanding of basic physics principles with the bachelor’s in physics program at the University at Albany.

Learn how to decipher problems using classical and modern experimental techniques, principles of quantum mechanics and basic physics applications. Apply your knowledge to get hands-on research in modern labs with your faculty mentor in subjects like quantum theory, string theory, X-ray analysis information physics, and particle physics and digital holography.

Through coursework and research you will be prepared for a career in areas like engineering, architecture, aerospace, fiber optics, medical physics and education, or to pursue graduate education.

Additional Program Information

Undergraduate Bulletin | Course Catalog | Department Contact: Paul LaBate

Program of Study
Honors Program
Applied Learning
Combined Master's
Career Outcomes
Physics Home

Program of Study

programofstudy

Develop a conceptual understanding of basic physics principles through courses that cover classical mechanics, electromagnetic theory, atomic and nuclear physics, and thermal physics. Then take advanced courses to customize your education in areas like electronics, particle physics and cosmology.

You will engage with a faculty mentor on a regular basis throughout the program. They will help you with course selection, career planning and academics. You can also conduct research with your mentor, exposing you to hands-on learning and experience before graduation.

Choose one of four concentrations to deepen your study in your selected area.

Introductory Physics Sequence

Physics I: Mechanics or Honors Physics I Mechanics or Physics I: Advanced Mechanics
Physics II: Electromagnetism or Honors Physics II: Electromagnetism or Physics II: Advanced Electromagnetism
Physics III: Structure of Matter

Lab Sequence for Introductory Courses

Physics Lab I or General Physics Lab I
Physics Lab II or General Physics Lab II
Physics Lab III

Higher Level Physics Courses

Mathematics in Physics or Analysis for Applications I & II
Physics IV: Waves
Classical Mechanics
Advanced Physics Lab
Electromagnetism I: Statics
Electromagnetism II: Electrodynamics
Quantum Physics I
Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics

Chemistry Sequence

General Chemistry I and Laboratory OR
General Chemistry I and General Chemistry Laboratory I OR
Advanced Chemistry I and General Chemistry Laboratory I

Calculus Sequence

Calculus I and Calculus II OR Honors Calculus I and Honors Calculus II
Calculus of Several Variables

Concentration Courses

Concentrations

General Physics

In the General Physics concentration, you will secure a well-rounded education in physics, covering fundamental principles and theories. The curriculum provides you with a strong background in physics and mathematics providing the analytical and problem-solving skills crucial for graduate studies in physics and related fields, as well as for scientific and technical careers in areas including engineering, software development and systems analysis. In addition, you can combine this degree with an M.S. in Secondary Education (Physics) for teaching opportunities.

General Physics Four-Year Plan

Higher Level Physics Courses

Quantum Physics II
Electromagnetism II: Electrodynamics

Chemistry Courses

General Chemistry II and Laboratory OR
General Chemistry II and General Chemistry Laboratory II OR
Advanced Chemistry II and General Chemistry Laboratory II

Mathematics Elective

Linear Algebra
Analysis for Applications I
Discrete Probability or
Complex Variables for Applications

Additional Physics Course

Any course numbered 300 or higher and appended with a Y suffix.

Mathematical Models in Physics
Electronics
Introduction to Particle Physics
Optics
Introduction to Cosmology
Medical Imaging
Introduction to Quantum Foundations and Quantum Information
Bayesian Data Analysis and Signal Processing
Symmetry in Physics
Physics of Materials
X-ray Optics, Analysis, and Imaging
Computational Methods

Computer Science Course

Introduction to Computer Science OR
Computers in Physics

Computational Physics

Computational physics focuses on the numerical solutions of complex physical problems. You will gain knowledge of the underlying mathematical and physical models as well as computational methods that enable computers to reach precise and accurate solutions in reasonable periods of time. You'll develop skills required for in-demand careers in data science and be prepared for graduate studies in fields such as physics, informatics and computer science.

Computational Physics Four-Year Plan

Computer Science Courses

Introduction to Computer Science
Computers in Physics

Mathematics Course

Linear Algebra

Higher Level Physics Courses

Introduction to Quantum Foundations and Quantum Information
Bayesian Data Analysis and Signal Processing
Computational Methods

Computational Physics Courses

Choose three:

System Fundamentals
Numerical Methods
Database Systems
Data Mining
Machine Learning
Microprocessor Applications
Electronics
Electronics Projects
Physics Measurements
Microprocessor Applications Lab
Independent Study
Discrete Probability

Astronomy & Particle Astrophysics

You will study the Universe using optical telescopes, radio waves, infrared and ultraviolet waves, X-rays, gamma rays, neutrinos, cosmic rays, and gravitational waves. This interdisciplinary concentration combines the signature strengths of astronomy and particle astrophysics, preparing you for a career at NASA and their sub-contractors, as well as graduate studies in physics, astronomy or related fields.

Astronomy & Particle Astrophysics Four-Year Plan

Computer Science Course

Introduction to Computer Science OR
Computers in Physics

Mathematics Course

Linear Algebra

Astro-physics Courses

Choose four:

Introduction to Astrophysics
Introduction to Particle Physics
Introduction to Cosmology
Astro-particle Physics
Introduction to Neutrino Astronomy

Physics Electives

Choose two:

Contemporary Astronomy
Exploration of Space
Star Systems
Math Models in Physics
Optics
Introduction to GR
Physics of Rad Detectors
Independent Study

Bio-imaging

In the bio-imaging concentration you will learn to combine optics, biophysics and medical imaging techniques. You will be prepared to secure a position in the medical physics and biotech industry or continue your studies specializing in biophysics or medical physics.

Bio-imaging Four-Year Plan

Computer Science Course

Introduction to Computer Science OR
Computers in Physics

Chemistry Courses

General Chemistry II and Laboratory OR
General Chemistry II and General Chemistry Laboratory II OR
Advanced Chemistry II and General Chemistry Laboratory II

Physics Electives

Choose four:

Biophysics
Optics
Laser Physics and Applications
Medical Imaging
Physics of Radiation Detectors
X-ray Optics, Analysis, and Imaging

Honors Program

Challenge yourself with more advanced work in the Physics Honors Program. You will have the opportunity to complete an independent research project culminating in a written report. Outstanding students should apply for admission to the honors program in the beginning of their junior year.

Applied Learning

Join the UAlbany chapter of the Society of Physics Students, a group that encourages you to pursue your education beyond the general classroom setting. Engage in hands-on activities like rocket building, view science movies, attend lectures and discuss career choices.

Take advantage of research opportunities that have the potential for professional publication through the National Science Foundation’s Research Experience for program.

honors

Accelerated Undergraduate/Graduate Options

You can save time and money by beginning your graduate degree coursework while still enrolled as an undergraduate student. Up to 12 academic credits, billed at the undergraduate rate, will count towards both degrees – so you’ll complete your combined program in only 5 years and spend less than you would if you completed each program separately. Choose to combine your Physics undergraduate degree with the following graduate programs:

combined

MS in Physics
This master’s program studies subjects like condensed matter, digital holography and Bayesian data analysis for a sound understanding of computational methods, electrodynamics and statistical mechanics.

MS in Information Science
This ALA-accredited master's program covers a broad range of interdisciplinary topics related to library science, information processing, information management and data analysis.

MS in Secondary Education
This New York State-approved teacher preparation program provides you with initial certification to teach a specific subject to students in grades 7-12 in New York State public schools.

Career Outcomes

With a Bachelor of Science in Physics degree you will be prepared for positions in industries such as engineering, astrophysics, software, science journalism, architecture and medical physics.

Potential job titles for a BS in physics include:

Electrical engineer
Laser engineer
Software developer
Programmer
High school physics or science teacher
Optical engineer
Research assistant
Lab technician
Accelerator operator

Colleagues writing mathematical formulas on a transparent board.

career

"One of the strengths of this department is really how small it is. You can get great one on one time with professors as well as grad students. There's just so many great resources."

- Abby Greco '26

UAlbany Majors: Physics

Student Learning Objectives

Learning objectives that UAlbany students are expected to attain through their course of study within their academic program.

Bachelor of Science

Students will master Newton's Laws
Students will master basics of electricity and magnetism (Coulomb's Law, analysis of DC circuits, induction)
Students will master advanced mechanics (Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations)
Students will master the fundamentals of thermodynamics and statistical physics (thermodynamic potentials, statistical ensembles, classical and quantum gases)
Students will master the fundamental concepts of quantum mechanics (Schrodinger equation and its applications to atomic physics)
Students will understand the fundamental nature of measurement in the scientific method, and the role of experimental uncertainty in comparing theory to experiment
Students will master writing clear and complete reports for laboratory measurements

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What Makes The University at Albany Great

Living-Learning Communities

Live and take classes with other incoming freshmen who share your personal interests, passions or intended academic major.

Study Abroad

Become a global citizen: international experience is crucial to success in business, education, research, and public policy.

Undergraduate Research

Research, scholarship, and creative activities at the University at Albany is an option for all students, across all academic disciplines. You will be able to learn more about a specific academic field or career path all while building a long-lasting mentoring relationship with a faculty member or principal investigator.

Explore Minors

Build competency in a passion or strengthen your resume.

A minor consists of 18–24 graduation credits which must include a minimum of 9 graduation credits of advanced coursework at or above the 300 level. Most undergraduate degrees require completing a minor and it has to have a different title from your major.

Full List of Minors

Acting
Africana Studies
Anthropology
Art
Art History
Atmospheric Science
Bioethics
Biology
Broadcast Meteorology
Business
Chemistry
Chinese Studies
Cognitive Science
Communication (Fully Online Option)
Computer Science
Creative Writing
Criminal Justice Studies (Fully Online Option)
Cybersecurity (Fully Online Option)
Documentary Studies
East Asian Studies
Economics
Educational Studies
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Electronics
Film Studies
Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity (Fully Online Option)
English

Forensic Science
French
Game Design and Development
Geographic Information Science
Geography
Globalization Studies
Hebrew
History (Fully Online Option)
Informatics (Fully Online Option)
Instrumental Performance
International Studies
Italian
Japanese Studies
Journalism (Fully Online Option)
Judaic Studies
Korean Studies
Latin American and Caribbean Studies
Law and Philosophy
Leadership
Legal Studies
LGBTQ Studies
Library and Information Science
Linguistics
Machine Learning
Mathematics

Medical Anthropology
Music
Musical Performance
Musical Theatre
Philosophy
Physics
Political Science
Portuguese
Pre-Education
Psychology (Fully Online Option)
Public Health
Public Policy
Religious Studies
Russian
Russian and Eastern European Studies
Social Welfare Studies
Sociology (Fully Online Option)
Spanish
Statistics
Sustainability
Theatre
Theatrical Design/Technology
Urban Studies and Planning
U.S. Latino Studies
Vocal Performance
Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies

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