Physics | Applied physics emphasis
Bachelor of Science
Overview
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Where physics meets innovation
Physics explains how the world works. Applied physics uses that knowledge to solve engineering and technological challenges. The Bachelor of Science in physics with an applied emphasis combines rigorous scientific training with practical engineering applications, preparing students for careers in high-tech industries or graduate study in engineering and applied science. You'll build a strong foundation in mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum physics and computational problem solving while learning how physics drives innovation across energy, electronics, manufacturing and medical technology.
As Idaho's only Carnegie R1 research university, the University of Idaho gives applied physics students opportunities to work alongside faculty conducting research using advanced laboratory instrumentation and computational tools. Through undergraduate research, close faculty mentorship and hands-on laboratory experiences, you'll develop the analytical and technical skills employers and graduate programs value while preparing to solve complex scientific and engineering problems.
Your coursework begins with a strong foundation in engineering physics, chemistry, computer science, calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, analytical mechanics, electromagnetism and introductory quantum mechanics before expanding into advanced laboratory experiences and physics research. The applied emphasis then allows you to customize your degree with upper-division coursework from engineering, computer science, mathematics, chemistry, biology and other STEM disciplines. Whether you're interested in astrophysics, biophysics, solid-state physics, theoretical physics, quantum science, planetary science, astronomy or mechanical engineering, you'll develop an interdisciplinary skill set that aligns with your interests and career goals while strengthening your experimental, computational and engineering expertise.
Applied physics is ideal for students who enjoy understanding fundamental scientific principles and applying them to solve practical problems. The combination of advanced physics, engineering, computing and laboratory experience prepares you to adapt as technologies evolve throughout your career. Whether you continue into graduate study or begin work in aerospace, semiconductors, medical technology, energy, defense, advanced manufacturing or scientific instrumentation, you'll graduate with the quantitative reasoning, technical depth and interdisciplinary perspective needed to develop the next generation of technologies and tackle complex scientific and engineering challenges.
This degree could be a good fit if you:
- Consider yourself a pragmatic person.
- Want a career that drives progress and makes a real difference.
- Are a creative problem solver.
- Are curious about how the universe works.
- Have strong skills in mathematics and chemistry.
- Want to do research in a laboratory.
- Always dreamed of working at NASA or studying space.
Explore the world from atoms to galaxies
Curriculum
The B.S. in physics, applied emphasis is a 120-credit program combining coursework and applied learning experiences. Students build technical expertise while gaining hands-on experience. Required coursework includes:
- Engineering and modern physics
- General chemistry
- Calculus, ordinary differential equations and linear algebra
- Computer science or Python programming
- Advanced physics coursework in analytical mechanics, electromagnetic fields and quantum mechanics
- Electives from related disciplines like engineering, chemistry, geology and mathematics that allow you to customize the degree to your interests and career goals
- Seminars and undergraduate research that helps you apply what you learn in the classroom to real-world scenarios
Physics makes an excellent double major with mechanical engineering.
Explore program requirements in the University Catalog
Class format
Many physics courses are taught with accompanying labs. This means you’ll have several sessions a week learning scientific concepts in a traditional classroom setting plus a weekly lab section to conduct experiments related to that week’s content. Lab sections are smaller, so you get personalized support from your instructor to help you succeed.
Research opportunities
Over 75% of undergraduate students at U of I do undergraduate research, often for academic credit or as paid lab assistants. You will gain lab experience in your regular classes, but you can also work with individual faculty in their research labs. For undergraduates in physics, that includes projects like:
- Mapping the surface of Titan in preparation for the Dragonfly mission. Dragonfly is a robotic octocopter designed by Vandals in partnership with the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory to explore the largest moon of Saturn.
- Creating and characterizing high entropy alloys in search of new materials for technological development
- Exploring the evolution of pathogens and how amino acid mutations can prevent effective treatment of disease in humans and crops
- Using microfluidics and optical microscopy to investigate the origins and consequences of metabolic differences that naturally occur between cells
Students working in research labs use scientific equipment like fluorescent and electron microscopes, sputtering machines, plasma devices, lasers, mass spectrometers, nuclear radiation detectors, a 20-inch imaging Dall-Kirkham reflector telescope, and facilities for low temperatures, strong magnetic fields, high-vacuums and vapor deposition. This gives you hands-on experience that can set you apart when applying for jobs.
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,166 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Materials Scientists
$119,792 - Physicists
$143,022 - Atmospheric and Space Scientists
$106,437 - Nuclear Engineers
$133,359 - Natural Sciences Managers
$153,637
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Student organizations give you opportunities to apply physics outside the classroom through research, outreach, guest speakers and interdisciplinary projects. You'll build leadership experience, strengthen your professional network and connect with faculty, alumni and employers while preparing for graduate school or careers in physics, engineering, data science and other STEM fields.
- Society of Physics Students – Join other physics enthusiasts to discuss current events in the physics community like discoveries, newly-published papers and other newsworthy research advances.
- College of Science Ambassadors – Expand the world of science by supporting current and prospective College of Science students, representing the college at recruiting events, and planning fun on-campus events for current science majors.
- Women in Science Society – Attend workshops, networking sessions and social events that promote the academic and professional success of collegiate women pursuing degrees in the sciences.
- Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) – Participate in professional development activities that help promote diversity in STEM by creating spaces in which everyone is welcome and diverse voices, experiences and talents are celebrated.
- Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society – Become a member of this international, multidisciplinary community of science professionals dedicated to research excellence.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
While paying for college can feel overwhelming, University of Idaho is committed to affordability and clarity about tuition and financial aid. Here are a few key resources to help you understand the cost of your degree and explore available financial support:
- Submit your FAFSA: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid.
- Estimate your cost of attendance: Use U of I’s Cost Calculator to estimate tuition and other expenses associated with earning your degree.
- Discover scholarship opportunities: When you apply to University of Idaho, you’re automatically considered for scholarships. Additional awards are available based on your previous experience, background and anticipated program of study.
If you have any questions about financial aid, scholarships or cost, U of I’s experienced financial aid counselors can help you make informed financial decisions and navigate each part of the process. Reach out to our Financial Aid Office for assistance.
Idaho LAUNCH
This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.
Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.
Recognized STEM Program
This program is recognized as a STEM program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and may be eligible for the 24-month STEM optional practical training extension for international students.
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.
Have questions?
Not sure if this program is the right fit? Connect with your admissions counselor or request more information to get personalized guidance on program details, requirements and next steps.
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Applied physics in action
Dragonfly prepares to take flight
Searching for evidence of life on Saturn’s largest moon
Icy origins of mysterious Uranus ring
One of Uranus’s faint outer rings is made primarily of water ice — a discovery reshaping what we understand.
What can you do with an applied physics degree?
A Bachelor of Science in physics with an applied emphasis prepares you to use physics principles to design, build and improve the technologies that shape our world. Applied physics graduates develop careers in engineering, aerospace, semiconductor manufacturing, renewable energy, optics, instrumentation, defense, advanced manufacturing and high-tech research. They work alongside scientists and engineers to solve practical challenges, develop innovative technologies and bring new ideas from the laboratory into the real world.
If you're excited by both scientific discovery and hands-on problem-solving, applied physics offers the best of both worlds. You'll gain experience with advanced laboratory equipment, computational modeling, electronics, data analysis and experimental design while building the technical and analytical skills employers seek across a wide range of industries. Whether you're developing next-generation sensors, improving clean energy technologies, advancing space exploration or designing cutting-edge electronic devices, an applied physics degree prepares you to turn scientific principles into real-world solutions.
I enjoy the sense of collaboration in the Physics department. Although the classes cover advanced topics, I know I can rely on classmates to help me understand the material. Furthermore, everyone’s happy to discuss their research and it’s easy to get involved.
Ethan C.
Cambridge, ID