COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts degree in Physics at Kent State University provides students with a strong foundation in physics while allowing flexibility for interdisciplinary exploration. The program prepares students for a wide range of career paths, including secondary education, patent law, science journalism, and interdisciplinary scientific careers, as well as graduate-level study in physics or related fields. Core coursework emphasizes fundamental physics principles, including classical mechanics, electromagnetism, modern physics, and laboratory experimentation, while developing critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving skills.The major requires rigorous mathematics preparation through courses in calculus and mathematical methods in the physical sciences. Laboratory courses, including intermediate and advanced physics labs, develop practical experimental skills and scientific communication. Upper-division physics electives allow students to pursue specialized interests, and with advisor approval, up to three credits may be replaced with selected courses in philosophy or English to support interdisciplinary studies.Students must complete a foreign language requirement, either through completion of multiple levels of a single language or a combination of two languages, or through approved alternatives demonstrating proficiency. Kent Core requirements in composition, humanities, fine arts, social sciences, and additional areas further support a well-rounded liberal arts education.Graduation requires a minimum GPA of 2.0 both in the major and overall. Certain courses, such as introductory astronomy or physics in entertainment and the arts, do not count toward the major. The flexibility of the program, combined with a strong scientific foundation and opportunities for electives, prepares graduates to adapt to a variety of professional or academic paths, making the B.A. in Physics ideal for students seeking both depth in science and breadth in interdisciplinary study.