B.S. in Chemical Physics

Student using lasers to measure objects

The B.S. degree in Chemical Physics provides students with an in-depth understanding of the fundamentals of chemistry, focusing on areas at the interface of chemistry and physics. These include, for example, the experimental measurement and theoretical calculation of the detailed properties and behavior of atoms and molecules. An important experimental tool in chemical physics is spectroscopy, which uses conventional or laser light to probe the atomic and molecular properties of matter.

Graduates will be prepared for employment in technology, energy, laser science, material science, solid-state chemistry and other fields requiring a strong background in both chemistry and physics. They will also be well-suited for graduate study in a range of areas including chemistry, chemical physics, computational chemistry, material science, nanomaterials and laser science.

 

Preparatory Subject Matter: 57-58 Units

  • Chemistry:
    • CHE 4A-4B-4C
  • Mathematics:
    • MAT 21A, 21B, 21C, 21D
    • MAT 22A & 22AL or MAT/BIS 27A
    • MAT 22B or MAT/BIS 27B
  • Physics:
    • PHY 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D

 

Depth Subject Matter: 53 Units

  • Analytical Chemistry:
    • CHE 105, 115, 125
  • Inorganic Chemistry:
    • CHE 124A
  • Organic Chemistry:
    • CHE 128A, 128B, 129A
  • Physical Chemistry:
    • CHE 110A, 110B, 110C
  • Physics:
    • PHY 104A, 105A, 110A

At least ONE course from:

  • Physics:
    • PHY 105B, 110B, 112, 115A, 140A

At least TWO additional upper division units in chemistry (except CHE 107A, 107B); may include units earned from CHE 197T.

 

Total Units for the Major: 110-111 units