Bachelor of Physics at The Ohio State University
The Physics is a Bachelor degree offered by The Ohio State University on the Columbus campus in United States of America. The program is delivered on campus as a Full Time course in English and requires approximately 4 years to complete. Students study at the Columbus campus while gaining the knowledge and practical experience expected for this area of study. The next intake is available from August 24, 2027.
About Bachelor of Physics
Physics
Degree: BS
Campus: Columbus
College: Arts and Sciences
Physicists are concerned with a broad range of natural phenomena, extending from the submicroscopic world of elementary particles to the vast reaches of the cosmos and the origins of the universe, from the simplest of everyday activities to the behavior of matter at the furthest extremes in energy, temperature, distance and time.
The defining characteristic of physics is the quest for the underlying logic—the theoretical structure that unifies and explains all the different phenomena that we study experimentally. Both the experiments themselves and the theoretical work that goes on at the same time are motivated primarily by this quest. As a by-product of this quest, physicists have pioneered many of the basic ideas on which our modern technology rests. Such developments as transistors, lasers and perhaps someday fusion energy all come directly from research in physics.
Get started
The Department of Physics wants to become involved with students as soon as they know that they intend to become physics majors, which can be as early as their first arrival at Ohio State. Those who intend to major in physics or are interested in exploring that option should schedule a visit at physics.osu.edu/request-visit.
Students who come to Ohio State majoring in physics enroll in the College of the Arts and Sciences. A major in engineering physics is also available in the College of Engineering.
Curriculum
A student who is interested in majoring in physics should consider carefully whether to choose a program in the College of Arts and Sciences (Bachelor of Science in Physics) or in the College of Engineering (Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics). The courses of study are very similar and prepare students for a variety of outcomes including graduate school in physics, astronomy, math or engineering; professional school; and employment as engineers, programmers, teachers, technicians and scientists.
Students pursuing a BS in physics can choose from among four options ranging from a rigorous preparation for graduate study in physics to a more flexible option for students who wish to combine a core of physics courses with courses in other areas. In addition to the technical electives unique to each option, all physics majors must complete the core physics and math requirements.
Students choose one of the following options based on what they want to do after they finish their undergraduate work:
- Advanced Physics is designed for students who wish to pursue an advanced physics degree; this option provides an excellent preparation for graduate school in physics, mathematics or astronomy.
- Applied Physics prepares students to begin a full-time job after graduation or to enroll in a graduate program outside of physics including engineering, law, business, journalism, chemistry and biology.
- Life Sciences is designed for those intending to attend medical school; this option satisfies all of the medical school admission requirements when combined with the required physics and math courses in the physics core curriculum.
- Physics Teaching was created for those seeking secondary level certification in physics (e.g., to be a high school teacher); this option has been designed to satisfy the College of Education Master of Education (physics certification) curriculum.
Study abroad
Physics and engineering physics majors have recently participated in study abroad programs in Germany, Switzerland, England, Spain, Italy, Brazil, Ireland and Canada.
Internship
Students have internship opportunities in various fields, including at Johns-Hopkins Applied Physics Lab, NASA, Microsoft, Boeing, Cook Nuclear Plant, Fermilab, Jet Propulsion Lab, SETI Institute, General Electric, IBM, Lawrence Livermore National Lab, Max-Planck Institute for Astronomy, Mayo Clinic, Northrop Grumman, PNC Bank, Wells Fargo, and Air Force bases.
Research
The Department of Physics encourages all of its students to become involved in research with a faculty member on one of many active research programs. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about and become involved in cutting edge physics research and discoveries. Areas of research include astrophysics, nuclear and elementary particle physics, solid state physics, biophysics, laser physics, superconductivity, and low temperature physics. In addition, undergraduate physics student organizations have many activities, including hosting guest physicists who speak about their research.
Student organizations
Student organizations of interest to physics majors include Sigma Pi Sigma (the physics honorary society), Society of Physics Students and the Society for Women in Physics.
Possible careers
Recent graduates of the physics program have gone on to study physics, engineering and astronomy at top universities such as Cornell University, Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Princeton University, Stanford University, University of Cambridge, University of Pennsylvania, University of Oxford, University of Hawaii and University of Chicago.
Graduates of the physics program have a variety of careers open to them. As workers in basic research, physicists may help expand the frontiers of the knowledge of the physical universe; as teachers in high schools, colleges or universities, they may help to transmit to others knowledge and appreciation of that universe and of scientific methods of investigating and understanding it. In an industrial laboratory or government agency, physicists may deal with the application of fundamental knowledge to the development of solutions for a wide range of practical problems, or they may be managers of large scientific or technical programs. In collaboration with colleagues in other disciplines, physicists may help attack problems spanning a number of important areas, many of which—such as energy usage, radiation hazards and environmental issues—are of current public concern.
Learn more at physics.osu.edu/ug-careers.
Salary estimates
Recent graduates in physics have been employed at salaries in the range of $60,000 to $95,000 with the average at $72,000.
Program objectives
- Provide students with the opportunity to master the fundamental areas of physics: classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics and thermodynamics.
- Allow students to develop problem-solving skills and the ability to analyze physical systems and to understand the theoretical framework that applies to them.
- Provide students with a basic mastery of experimental science, including an understanding of data reduction and error analysis.
- Teach students to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
- Provide students with the opportunity to develop a basic knowledge of and facility with computing.
Requirements and Admission Criteria for Bachelor of Physics at The Ohio State University
Entry Requirements
Criteria of our holistic review, in no particular order.
Successful completion of university preparatory courses
High school performance (class rank or GPA), including participation in accelerated programs like Honors, AP and IB; Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for class rank or GPA
Standardized test score (ACT or SAT); Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Ability and desire to contribute to and engage with a diverse campus community
Experiences that demonstrate leadership or engaged involvement (e.g., co-curricular activities, work experiences or military service)
Status as a first-generation university student
Demonstration of outstanding talent in a particular area
High school performance if adversely affected by physical, mental or learning environment factors
Eligibility for and likelihood of benefiting from organized support services at Ohio State
Enrollment in your intended major
Once it is determined that you are admissible, you will be considered for enrollment in the college of your intended major. Read about
English Requirements
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 79
English Program Requirements
we require evidence of English language proficiency, unless you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Tuition and Fee Information for Bachelor of Physics at The Ohio State University
How to Apply for Bachelor of Physics at The Ohio State University
How do I submit scores?
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Tips for sending scores to Ohio State
Scores must come directly from the testing agency. When you register for the ACT or SAT, indicate that you want your scores sent to Ohio State.
If you already took the test but didn't send your scores to Ohio State, you can order them for a fee. Order in advance to be sure scores reach us by the application deadline.
We must receive standardized test scores by your application deadline (either November 1 or February 1 for autumn semester applicants).
October 2 (SAT) and October 23 (ACT) are your last 2021 test dates if you want your scores to be considered for our November 1 early action deadline. Important! If you plan to test on those dates, you must request that Ohio State receive scores when you register for the test. And please note: If you choose to have your scores considered, you won’t be able to review scores from these dates prior to submitting your application by the November 1 deadline.
Applicants who will have been out of high school for two or more years by their term of enrollment are not required to submit scores.
Is the essay required?
The essay is not required for either the ACT or SAT.
Should I take a standardized test more than once?
Ohio State looks at the highest composite score from a single test date. Taking the test (and having scores sent to us) more than once, while not required, may work to your advantage.
How does Ohio State look at scores?
When considering students for admission or Honors and Scholars selection, we consider the best official composite / combined score from a single test administration. Ohio State does not mix sub-scores from multiple tests.
These items plus the Common Application (STEP 3) make up a complete application. We must receive all items by the deadline to consider your application on time.
Official transcripts
High school transcripts
Request that your high school or secondary school send transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates for coursework from the final four years (grades 9-12) to Ohio State.
How to send your transcripts to Ohio State:
Your high school counselor can upload the transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates using Common App, Naviance or other secure electronic delivery service.
Your high school counselor can email the transcripts to [email protected].
If electronic submission is not possible, please mail your official transcripts to our express mail address.
Faxed transcripts will not be accepted.
Foreign language documents must be translated into English by the issuing institution, an authorized translator or a teacher of the language. Any additional requirements will be posted to your Applicant Center, so be sure to check your application status regularly after you've applied.
Official ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.How do I submit my scores?
We must receive your official ACT or SAT score sent electronically directly from the testing agency. Scores from transcripts will not be considered. Read more about score requirements in STEP 1.
Optional: Recommendation from a teacher or counselor
While not required, your counselor may send a maximum of two letters of recommendation electronically through the Common Application.
If an electronic option isn’t available, your counselor may email your letter(s) to
[email protected]; the letter must include your first and last name and OSU ID number, found on the email we send acknowledging receipt of your application. Letters sent via email are subject to sender verification.
Official proof of English language skills
You must request that your testing agency send official scores electronically to Ohio State demonstrating the English proficiency level outlined below:
TOEFL (internet-based test or internet-based test Home Edition*): 79 or higher
IELTS or IELTS Indicator*: 6.5 or higher
ACT: 21 or higher on the English section
SAT: 27 or higher on the Reading Test
Duolingo*: 105 or higher
You are exempt from this requirement if you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Ohio State has an intensive English program for students who wish to improve their language skills called the American Language Program. A separate application is required for this program. Ohio State does not offer conditional admission to students who enroll in the American Language Program.
*To accommodate applicants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, The Ohio State University will accept Duolingo, the IELTS Indicator and the TOEFL internet-based test Home Edition from any international student applying for spring 2022 or autumn 2022 admission. All Duolingo test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival to campus. TOEFL Home Edition and IELTS Indicator test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival unless they qualify for a TOEFL or IELTS score exemption.
United States of America, Columbus