Programs

BS in Applied Physics (Pre-Med Program)

Physics is the fundamental language of the universe, and applied physics is your key to unlocking its potential. Our Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics equips you to tackle the cutting-edge challenges of science and technology.

This program goes beyond theory, focusing on the practical application of physical principles. You’ll develop the skills to bridge the gap between physics and other in-demand fields like medicine, engineering, astronomy, chemistry, biology, and environmental science.

What Will I Learn?

Your physics education at LAU will equip you with a well-rounded skillset for scientific exploration. Through problem-based learning, you’ll develop critical thinking skills, alongside the ability to communicate scientific information effectively, both orally and in writing. Your coursework and senior research project will further solidify your foundation by providing hands-on experience in research methodology, data analysis, and interpretation.

LAU prioritizes a student-centered approach, with physics classes designed to foster active and experiential learning. By utilizing the latest technology and lab equipment, you’ll delve into core undergraduate physics courses such as classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism, thermodynamics, modern physics, optics, quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, solid-state physics, and much more. This comprehensive curriculum prepares you for careers in teaching, research, and industry, while aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Your Career

A Bachelor’s degree in Physics provides a strong foundation for a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates can choose to continue their education by pursuing a Master’s or Ph.D., allowing them to specialize and expand their expertise in physics or related fields. For those interested in healthcare, a pre-med physics track offers a pathway into medicine.

In industry, physics opens doors to innovative fields such as sustainable energy, nanotechnology, and materials science, as well as established sectors like petroleum and electronics. Graduates with a passion for education can inspire the next generation by teaching physics at the high school level or beyond.

The analytical and problem-solving skills developed through a physics degree also translate into impactful roles in shaping science and energy policies. Additionally, these skills can be applied in the legal realm, particularly in intellectual property and patent law. A physics degree is not just an academic achievement but a launchpad to an array of exciting career possibilities.

Curriculum

A total of 94 credits are required to graduate, distributed as follows:

Physics Core Requirements (34 credits)

Number Course Cr
PHY201 Electricity and Magnetism 3
PHY201B Electricity and Magnetism lab 1
PHY202 Classical Mechanics 3
PHY203 Classical Mechanics Lab 1
PHY304 Mathematical Meth. for Physicists 3
PHY307 Thermodynamics 3
PHY308 Quantum Mechanics 3
PHY309 Advanced Physics Lab I 1
PHY321 Introduction to Modern Physics 3
PHY322 Advanced Physics lab II  1
PHY402 Solid State Physics 3
PHY405 Statistical Mechanics 3
PHY413 Optics and Waves 3
PHY499R Undergraduate Research 3

Mathematics Core Requirements (12 credits)

Number Course Cr
MTH201 Calculus III 3
MTH206 Calculus IV 3
MTH301 Linear Algebra 3

Choose minimum of 3 credits from:

Number Course Cr
MTH303 Numerical Methods 3
MTH305 Probability and Statistics 3

Chemistry Core Requirements (3 credits)

Number Course Cr
CHM201 Chemical Principles 3

Computer Science Core Requirements (3 credits)

Choose minimum of 3 credits from:

Number Course Cr
BIF244 Intro. to Script Programming 3
CSC243 Intro. to Obj. Oriented Programming 3

Elective Requirements – 15 credits (at least 6 cr. must be PHY courses)

Number Course Cr
PHY311* Organic Materials I 3
PHY312* Organic Materials II 3
PHY323 Introduction to Astrophysics 3
PHY324 Nuclear Physics 3
PHY325 Particle Physics 3
PHY326 Computational Physics 3
PHY404 Fluids Mechanics 3
PHY424 Intro to Nanotechnology 3
PHY450* Medical Imaging & Instr. 3
PHY480 Topics in Physics 3
MTH306 Non-Linear Dynamics Chaos 3
MTH400 Advanced Linear Algebra 3
MTH498 Topics in Mathematics 3
CSC245 Objects and Data Abstraction 3
ELE201 Electrical Circuits I 3
ELE302 Electrical Circuits II 3
ELE303 Electric Circuits II Lab 1
ELE401 Electronics I 3
ELE402 Electronics Lab 1
CHM301* Analytical Chemistry 3
CHM313* Organic Chemistry I Lab 1
CHM314* Organic Chemistry II Lab 1
CHM421 Inorganic Chemistry I 3
CHM422 Inorganic Chemistry II 3
CHM423 Synth. & Iden. of Inorg. Comp. 2
CHM425 Computational Chemistry 2
CHM424 Synth. and Iden. of Nanomaterials 2
BIO201* General Biology I 3
BIO201B* General Biology I Lab 1
BIO202* General Biology II 3
BIO202B* General Biology II lab 1
BIO321* Genetics 3
BCH301* Introduction to Biochemistry 4

*Recommended for premed students