Physics, BA: Chemical Principles
Physics and astronomy are fundamental sciences aimed at discovering the basic principles that govern our universe. Physicists study the interplay between space, time, matter, and energy. Complex behavior in nature is explained in terms of elementary relations between constituent elements and the forces that bind them, over distances ranging from subatomic to cosmic scale. Astronomy encompasses the entire physical universe beyond the earth: the solar system, stars, galaxies, galaxy clusters and superclusters, quasars, and the large-scale structure of the universe. The basic tools in physics and astronomy are mathematics and experimental investigation and observation of the world around us.
At Penn, the curriculum for undergraduate Physics majors, which includes extensive laboratory experience, is based on faculty strengths in Condensed Matter Physics, Elementary Particle Physics, and Astrophysics. Undergraduate teaching is linked to faculty research efforts in these areas, and participation by undergraduates in research is strongly encouraged.
This concentration is particularly appropriate for students planning to enter the health professions. Such students should be aware that, although not part of the concentration requirements, laboratories in general and organic chemistry and lecture and laboratory work in biology are generally required by professional schools in the health area. The concentration may also be appropriate for other students pursuing double majors in Physics and Chemistry or Biochemistry.
The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 36. Double majors may entail more course units.
Note: For Biology concentration, see Biophysics track outlined below.
For more information: http://www.physics.upenn.edu/
For information about the General Education requirements, please visit the College of Arts & Sciences Curriculum page.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| College General Education Requirements and Free Electives | ||
| Foundational Approaches + Sectors1 + Free Electives | 17.5 | |
| Major Requirements | ||
| Core Requirements | ||
| MATH 1400 | Calculus, Part I | 1 |
| MATH 1410 | Calculus, Part II | 1 |
| or MATH 1610 | Honors Calculus | |
| MATH 2400 | Calculus, Part III | 1 |
| or MATH 2600 | Honors Calculus, Part II | |
| MATH 2410 | Calculus, Part IV | 1 |
| or MATH 4250 | Partial Differential Equations | |
| PHYS 1230 | Principles of Physics III: Vibrations and Waves, Special Relativity, and Thermal Physics | 1 |
| PHYS 3361 | Electromagnetism I: Electricity and Potential Theory | 1 |
| PHYS 3362 | Electromagnetism II: Magnetism, Maxwell's Equations, and Electromagnetic Waves | 1 |
| PHYS 4411 | Introduction to Quantum Mechanics I | 1 |
| PHYS 0150 | Principles of Physics I: Mechanics and Wave Motion | 1.5 |
| or PHYS 0170 | Honors Physics I: Mechanics and Wave Motion | |
| PHYS 0151 | Principles of Physics II: Electromagnetism and Radiation | 1.5 |
| or PHYS 0171 | Honors Physics II: Electromagnetism and Radiation | |
| Chemical Principles Concentration | ||
| PHYS 1250 | Principles of Physics IV: Modern Physics | 1.5 |
| PHYS 3351 | Analytical Mechanics | 1 |
| PHYS 4401 | Thermodynamics and the Introduction to Statistical Mechanics and Kinetic Theory | 1 |
| CHEM 1011 | Introduction to General Chemistry I | 1 |
| or CHEM 1012 | General Chemistry I | |
| or CHEM 1151 | Honors Chemistry I | |
| CHEM 1021 | Introduction to General Chemistry II | 1 |
| or CHEM 1022 | General Chemistry II | |
| or CHEM 1161 | Honors Chemistry II | |
| CHEM 2210 & CHEM 2220 | Physical Chemistry I and Physical Chemistry II | 2 |
| or CHEM 2410 & CHEM 2420 | Principles of Organic Chemistry I and Principles of Organic Chemistry II | |
| Total Course Units | 36 | |
- 1
You may count no more than one course toward both a Major and a Sector requirement. For Exceptions, check the Policy Statement.
Honors
Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.3 in major-related courses.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| PHYS 4498 | Senior Honor Thesis (Semester 1) | 1 |
| or PHYS 5598 | Senior Honors Thesis for Submatriculants | |
| PHYS 4498 | Senior Honor Thesis (Semester 2) | 1 |
| or PHYS 5598 | Senior Honors Thesis for Submatriculants | |
| Thesis Accepted | ||
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2025 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.