Physics Major

Students who complete the Arts & Sciences Physics Program will earn a B.S. in Physics from the College of Arts & Sciences. There are four options for students to choose from when pursuing this degree. These options are designed to allow flexibility for students interested in physics and allow a student to use their physics training for a wide variety of career paths after graduation. The various career paths alumni of this program have chosen include employment as a scientist, engineer, or teacher; pursuit of a graduate degree in Physics, Astronomy, or Math; and pursuit of careers in other areas such as Medicine, Law, or Business.

Please note that The Ohio State University does not offer a B.A. program in physics.

Procedures for Arts and Sciences Physics Students
A prerequisite flowchart for physics classes

B.S. Physics Requirements: Focus-specific Physics Curriculum

(students enrolled at OSU prior to autumn 2024)

Required courses for all focuses within the Arts & Sciences Physics Major

Sample Schedules

There are four focuses within the Physics major. Students will choose a focus that is appropriate for their post-graduation and career plans. All focuses lead to the same major (Physics) and the same degree (Bachelor of Science) and are not indicated on the student's transcript or diploma.


B.S. Physics Requirements: New Physics Curriculum

(students enrolled at OSU autumn 2024 or after)

Beginning in autumn 2024, the physics curriculum is streamlined to allow students more flexibility and continuity. Students can tailor their electives to their career plans and interests as they would have under the previous curriculum but they now have even more electives choices and flexibility than before. Please work with a physics advisor for assistance choosing electives that are appropriate for you.

Double Major with Astronomy & Astrophysics

Many students undertake a double major with Astronomy & Astrophysics which is managed by the Department of Astronomy.  Such a path increases the depth of preparation in astronomy and mathematics and is a good option for students intending to go on to graduate school in Astronomy or Astrophysics. If you are interested, check out the sample schedules for a double major in Physics and Astronomy & Astrophysics below. 

Enrolling in the Physics Major 

To enroll in the B.S. Physics major program at OSU, please contact one of the physics advisors.

Academic Standards Policy

The following conditions must be met to be considered in good academic standing in the Arts and Sciences Physics degree program at Ohio State:

  1. A term point-hour ratio of a 2.0 or above in all courses taken at The Ohio State University (TPHR).
  2. A cumulative point-hour ratio of a 2.0 or above in all courses taken at The Ohio State University (CPHR).
  3. A point-hour ratio of a 2.0 or above in all required major courses taken at The Ohio State University (MPHR)

Students are eligible for Special Action Probation (SAP) for grades if they fail to maintain a 2.00 TPRH, CPHR, or MPHR.

Students on SAP for grades will be required to earn at least a 2.00 TPHR during their next term of enrollment.

After a student is placed on SAP for grades, there are three possible outcomes:

  • Return to good academic standing
    • Students on SAP for grades will return to good academic standing when they achieve at least a 2.00 in their TPHR, CPHR, and MPHR without receiving any "W" or "I" marks on their transcript.
  • Continue on SAP for grades
    • Students on SAP for grades will be continued on SAP for grades until they achieve at least a 2.00 in their CPHR, as long as they continue to earn at least a 2.00 TPHR and MPHR.
  • Be dismissed from the Arts and Sciences Physics major program
    • Students on SAP for grades will be dismissed from the Arts and Sciences Physics major program if the terms of their probation are not met.