Online Bachelor of Arts in Physics

The Bachelor of Arts in physics offers a science-oriented liberal education on a broad range of physical phenomena. In this bachelor’s in physics, you’ll learn the fundamental concepts of matter and energy, which are foundational to most branches of science. This online physics degree is great for teachers looking to teach advanced physics in high school and students seeking careers in physical sciences, IT and engineering.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 05/16/2024


Total classes:

Total classes: 41

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 120

Degree questions, answered.

Have questions about the Physics (BA)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!

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Can I earn a physics degree online?

Yes. As a student in the online physics degree program, you’ll have the opportunity to emulate experimental conditions on your computer screen in an advanced lab course with the same alignment protocols and experimental limitations as its in-person counterpart. There’s also an online version of the electronics lab, where you can purchase an inexpensive kit to perform sophisticated electronics experiments with the help of your computer.

Additionally, this online bachelor’s in physics has an elective course on modern physics that covers special relativity and a broad overview of quantum mechanics, as well as a one-credit course in Python Programming.

What’s the difference between a BA and BS in physics?

Both bachelor’s in physics programs provide a solid foundation in physical science and mathematics. However, the BS in physics is ideal for those looking to pursue graduate studies in physics, science or engineering, whereas the BA in physics doesn’t require additional schooling.

What can I do with a BA in physics?

In the bachelor’s in physics program, you’ll gain a solid grounding in the basics of physics with introductory courses in:

  • Electromagnetism.
  • Mechanics.
  • Modern physics.
  • Thermodynamics.
  • Wave optics.

This online physics degree is ideal for those seeking a deep understanding of physics without going to graduate school. Upon completing this physics degree online, you’ll have the knowledge and skills needed to earn jobs in bionics, photonics, audio engineering, software engineering and pharmaceuticals.

Will my physics degree say 'online'?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.

Featured courses

In this online physics degree, you’ll study a wide range of topics, including programming in the Python programming language, the fundamentals of procedural and object-oriented programming in Python, differential equations, linear equations, vectors and matrices. Courses include:


PHY 201: Mathematical Methods in Physics I (MATH OR CS)


PHY 202: Programming for Physicists


PHY 302: Mathematical Methods in Physics II


PHY 310: Classical Particles, Fields, and Matter I


PHY 311: Classical Particles, Fields, and Matter II


PHY 314: Quantum Physics I


What can you do with a BA in physics?

In this online physics degree, you’ll gain transferable skills in experimental analysis, mathematics and problem-solving. Upon graduating, you’ll be well-equipped for a wide variety of careers, including, but not limited to:

Elementary Teacher


Growth: 0.7 %
Salary: $61,690

Health Sciences Manager


Growth: 4.8 %
Salary: $144,440

Middle School Teacher


Growth: 0.8 %
Salary: $61,810

Technical Writer


Growth: 6.9 %
Salary: $79,960

Experienced and exceptional physics faculty

From Royal Society and American Academy fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members.

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.

Experienced and exceptional physics faculty

From Royal Society and American Academy fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members.

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.

Admission requirements

I am a future

You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.

Learn how to apply.

Competency requirements

Additional admission requirements

High school equivalency

Homeschool

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

Earn your physics degree online from one of the largest colleges in ASU

ASU’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to be socially aware, critical thinkers and global citizens.

25,500+


currently enrolled students.

$140 million


in research expenditures in 2018.

23


interdisciplinary schools and departments.

95+


undergraduate degrees.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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