Undergraduate

Undergraduate Programs

Undergraduate Physics at Emory University has some of the brightest science students in the world. If you are interested in understanding the physical world-from sub-atomic particles to the cosmos--you should consider majoring in physics. All physics courses, without exception, are taught by full-time faculty members. It's easy to get involved in exciting undergraduate research projects and establish close working relationships with faculty members of your choice. Our research groups in biophysics, soft condensed matter, Condensed Matter and Optics, and theoretical physics are internationally recognized.

Emory's Physics Department offers six-degree programs to choose from, listed below:

Comparison Chart for All Degrees

BS in Physics

If you want a rigorous foundation in physics, especially if you plan to pursue graduate education in physics.

Concentration in Quantum Information

This is an optional program within the BS in Physics major. Electives and advanced labs are focused on Quantum Information topics. (Available starting for May 2023 graduates.)

BA in Physics

If you plan to enter medicine, dentistry, law, business, teaching or another field where a physics background is an asset.

BS in Physics and Astronomy

If you plan on graduate education and a career in astronomy.

BA in Physics and Astronomy

If you are interested in studying astronomy but may pursue another career such as medicine, law or teaching.

BS in Biophysics

If you want a rigorous foundation in both physics and biophysics.

BS in Engineering Sciences

If you are interested in professions that interface with engineers, such as engineering management and patent law; or you are planning to pursue a graduate degree in engineering. Three tracks are available:

Engineering Physics
Materials Science (which includes many chemistry courses)
Geosciences (which includes many courses in Environmental Science)

Minors

Prerequisites

DECLARATION OF MAJOR/MINOR IN PHYSICS

All Emory students can declare a major or minor under the Course Planning and Enrollment tile in their OPUS accounts. You can begin the declaration of major/minor process with the form found there.
The Office of the Registrar will send you an initial welcome email from the Department of Physics
You will receive an email from our Sr. Academics Degree Program Coordinator, Susan Cook acknowledging receipt of your DOM/M request and also discuss assigning and advisor. You can access the people tab on the physics website for more information about our faculty.
Finally, a welcome letter from us will be sent to you from Susan Cook with your Physics advisor's name and other information about our department.

Welcome to the Physics Family! We are glad that you chose Physics as your Major/Minor.

More Details

Detailed information about the Undergraduate Program is available through the links at the top of this page. If you desire more information about the Program, please contact us by email (scook01@emory.edu), or if you are in the Atlanta area, let us know. We will be happy to introduce you to faculty, students, staff and give a tour of our department.