Develop critical scientific skills with a degree in general physics
Are you curious about the world around you and eager to explore the big questions of the universe? With the University of Missouri–St. Louis’ general physics degree program, you’ll build sought-after quantitative reasoning and problem-solving skills while exploring the fundamental nature of forces and particles.
UMSL’s degree in physics features a rigorous curriculum and promotes the benefits of public outreach and education. Students are encouraged to conduct research in both laboratory and theoretical fields and engage in computational work, internships, tutoring and other teaching opportunities.
Part of the College of Arts and Sciences, UMSL’s Physics Department is a close-knit community that supports its students throughout the academic program. Our physics majors enjoy world-class facilities and a wide range of advanced, modern courses, including opportunities to engage in cross-disciplinary work in other fields of interest.
Expert preparation for an advanced career in physics
A general physics degree from UMSL will help you learn to analyze complex problems, giving you solid, transferable skills across many disciplines. In addition to general physics, we offer Bachelor of Science in Physics degrees with concentrations in astrophysics, biophysics and engineering physics.
Whether you want a professional career in physics, comprehensive preparation for employment in areas like industry, government and research or to continue to graduate school, UMSL’s BS in physics will get you there.
Program type:
Major, BS
Format:
On-Campus
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Why earn your general physics degree at UMSL?
A general physics degree from UMSL’s College of Arts and Sciences will position you to make an immediate impact on both the world around you and in your career. With over 50 years of experience in offering a BS in physics, we also provide opportunities like:
- Undergraduate research opportunities. Our faculty often have NGA, NSF, NASA and other grants available to support undergraduate students performing astronomical or geoscience-related research.
- An affordable education. UMSL is committed to making education affordable and accessible. The College of Arts and Sciences offers generous scholarships to general physics students.
- Participation in scientific organizations. UMSL is a member of the Missouri Space Grant Consortium, which supports several physics majors each semester as paid undergraduate research assistants.
What can you do with a UMSL general physics degree?
UMSL’s BS in physics opens the door to a variety of careers as well as graduate studies in physics.
Our general physics majors graduate with a strong understanding of fundamental concepts, such as classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism, thermal and statistical physics, and modern electronics. Our grads are also skilled in problem-solving, critical thinking, analytical reasoning, communication and teamwork.
Nearly all UMSL physics majors have the opportunity for research experiences and/or internships. For example, up to five general physics majors can apply for an internship at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency each year. Many of our physics majors receive job offers to continue as scientists at the NGA following graduation.
Employment of physicists is expected to grow by 7% through 2033, with a median salary of $149,530, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
$149,530
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Career Opportunities
- Climate Science
- Data Analyst
- Geophysicist
- Researcher
- Software Engineer
Plan of study
All majors must meet the general education requirements of the university in addition to completing degree-specific curriculum requirements.
Review Full Degree Requirements Review Sample Four-Year Plan
Non-Missouri Residents: Prospective students are responsible for reviewing the UMSL state authorizations page to see if this program is offered in their state throughout their program and to review the licensure or certification requirements for the state in which they reside.
Student organizations
Make new friends and learn new skills by joining one of our Recognized Student Organizations. Here are several opportunities you may be interested in as a physics major:
- Physics and Astronomy Club
- Student Government Association
- Students of the University of Missouri
Honors College
The UMSL Honors College is a certificate program that can be paired with any major without adding extra classes or extending time to graduate. Classes in the Honors College are seminar-style, meaning that they are based in reading, writing, discussion, and critical thinking. This unique class format fosters an intellectual climate centered around democracy, diversity, civility and academic excellence.
Undergraduate research
We encourage and support students as they engage in exciting activities in and outside of the classroom that enrich their academic and professional understanding of their chosen area of study. All majors are encouraged to participate in Undergraduate Research and Scholarship to produce discipline-specific intellectual or creative innovations to their field.
