Applied Physics B.S.

Applied Physics Bachelor of Science degree – Program II

We offer an alternative degree curriculum to Traditional Physics through the Applied Physics B.S. Program II option. This practical program prepares you for high tech jobs in industry and medicine and is an excellent precursor to graduate programs in engineering and other physics applications.

Interested in studying applied physics? Students applying to IU for Fall 2026 should contact the College's recruiting team. Current IU students can speak with their academic advisor.  

Curriculum

Applied Physics provides a more flexible curriculum that can be tailored to your vocational goals. The plan emphasizes hands-on instruction such as instrumentation laboratory courses that provide students with experience using industry-standard tools.

Internships

You will gain valuable, real-world experience in a chosen area of interest through paid summer internships in industry, academia, or national laboratories.

Learn about internships   Learn about the internship requirement

Is this major a good fit for you?

Students who choose to major in Physics typically have an intense curiosity about the universe and the behavior of the natural world. Physics requires both a solid understanding of mathematics and an ability to think critically about complex problems. Physicists enjoy coming up with models. They are challenged by a good puzzle, and like tinkering with devices or mathematical ideas. They share an interest in the quest for unifying principles and take pleasure in thinking.

Most Physics majors are interested in topics such as:

  • the nature of dark matter
  • the large-scale structure of the universe
  • high-temperature superconductors
  • the electronic properties of materials
  • discovery of new particles
  • fundamental symmetries and their violation

Learn more about the Applied Physics B.S. in our Student Portal

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Incoming freshmen

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