The typical plans of study for the BS and BA can be found on the following pages:
The B.A. is typically for students who pursue careers in physics and astronomy
that are not centered around performing research or industrial applications, including
fields such as science policy, outreach and engagement, technical writing, or journalism
and media.
The B.S. is typically for students who pursue careers in research and/or
industry, working hands-on in fields including academia, engineering, technology
and software development, defense and aviation, or data science and analysis.
Areas of Emphasis
There are a number of Areas of Emphasis (AoE) you can choose from to prepare you
for your career of choice. The Professional Preparation area is for students who
wish to attend graduate school and pursue a career in research. The Physics Teaching
Area is for students who wish to pursue a career in physics education. All of the
other areas — Applied Physics, Medical Physics, Computational
Physics, Materials Science, and Space Physics — are designed to prepare you
to enter the industrial workforce upon graduation.
All undergraduates are assigned a faculty adviser to answer questions you have and
help guide you through the program.
Questions? Email us at
physicsugradadvising@mail.wvu.edu.