Credits: 152: 122UG/30GD
CIP Code: 400801

Program Description

The Accelerated Dual Degrees in Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Physics curriculum provide graduates an understanding of basic and advanced principles of physics together with the knowledge of analytical, computational, and mathematical concepts to solve complex scientific problems of importance to the society. The flexibility of the curriculum provides opportunities for the development of initiatives and skills for careers in research and technology.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants to the Accelerated Dual Degrees in Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Physics must meet the General Admissions Requirements of Clark Atlanta University as published in the Undergraduate and Graduate Catalogs. Students are admitted based on their academic achievement in secondary school. Students must have a minimum cumulative high school grade point average of 3.25 and minimum scores of 1100 on the composite Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) out of 1600 or 22 on the American College Testing (ACT) out of 36.

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates with a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Physics will be able to:

1. Solve calculus-based problems in mechanics, electromagnetism, and optics.
2. Integrate physical concepts for the analysis of complex problems cutting across multidisciplinary STEM areas.
3. Analyze and model physical systems by utilizing mathematical approximations and methods.
4. Effectively communicate concepts of related physics topics phenomena, analyses, and conclusions.

Degree Requirements

In addition to the General Degree Requirements as published in the Undergraduate and Graduate Catalogs, students must satisfy all the requisite major and cognate courses with minimum final grades of "C” for award of the Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics. For award of the Master of Science Degree in Physics, students must complete at least thirty (30) credits of graduate coursework in the major field and defend an acceptable thesis.

At the beginning of the second semester of the third year of study, students must apply for admission to the graduate program. During their fourth year of study, students may begin graduate coursework and research while completing undergraduate degree requirements. Summer research activities may be required depending on the objectives of students' research projects. During the fifth year of study, students engage exclusively in graduate study.

Students must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 to continue in the program. At any point during matriculation in this program, students may elect to pursue the traditional Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics.

¹

Physics Electives must be at the 300-400 level.

General Education Courses

Free Electives: 15 Credits

Note: Free Electives should be chosen in consultation with the advisor depending, on the choice of minor or stackable credentials.

Other University Requirements

Graduate Courses

Plan of Study for Accelerated Dual Degrees in Physics, B.S./M.S.

(Students who are not prepared to complete calculus in their first year of study should arrange a revised plan of study in consultation with an advisor.)

¹

Free Electives should be chosen in consultation with the advisor, depending on the choice of minor or stackable credentials.

²

Undergraduate Physics Electives must be at the 300-400 level and Graduate Elective must be at the 500 level and above.