ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ

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Applied Physics – your gateway to bridging theoretical physics with practical engineering applications.

Earn your Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics at ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ and gain the knowledge to connect the theoretical foundations of physics with real-world applications. With a curriculum emphasizing advanced mathematics, chemistry, and problem-solving, this applied physics bachelor’s degree program prepares you to pioneer innovative solutions in science, technology, and industry. Small class sizes, supportive faculty, and complimentary tutoring ensure you receive the personalized attention needed to thrive academically.

Throughout your studies, you’ll strengthen critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and communication skills that employers value across a wide range of career paths. Whether you plan to pursue graduate studies, enter the workforce, or explore opportunities in engineering, research, or technology fields in Kentucky, across the U.S., and abroad, a bachelor’s degree in applied physics from ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ sets you apart as a highly prepared and competitive professional.

Anchor: Stats

By the Numbers

3+2

Partnership with UK

96%

Receive Financial Aid
Anchor: Programs & Requirements
Programs & Requirements

Programs & Requirements

* The credit hours listed on this page only reference the specific program requirements and is not reflective of the total hours necessary to receive your Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics. ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ requires all students obtain a minimum of 60 hours for an associate’s degree and a total of 120 hours for a bachelor’s degree. Transfer and prior learning credits may be counted toward those totals.

To learn more about our General Education Requirements, please visit the page referenced below or explore our Academic Catalog

General Education Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics

The applied physics major is for students pursuing the dual-degree (3-2) engineering option and leads to two bachelor’s degrees. UC has a formal agreement with the University of Kentucky; however, other ABET-accredited engineering schools may be acceptable on a case-by-case basis. Engineering schools and individual branches of engineering require different core courses; applied physics majors are responsible for being familiar with these specific requirements. The curriculum nominally requires three years at UC and two years at UK; however, a variety of situations may affect this timeframe. UC recommends that students complete introductory engineering courses during the summer between UC and UK. Some engineering branches require additional (and maybe extensive) background in programming, chemistry, or biology that are beyond the required curriculum; thus, requiring more than five years.

Course Requirements

Note: The 3+2 partnership with University of Kentucky requires a minimum of 70 credit hours completed at ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ followed by 32 hours at UK.

3+2 Pre-Engineering Partnership

The Applied Physics major is designed for students pursuing the dual-degree (3-2) engineering option, which leads to two bachelor’s degrees. While most Applied Physics majors transfer to the University of Kentucky, other ABET-accredited engineering schools may be acceptable, pending case-by-case approval. Because engineering schools and specific branches of engineering have varying core course requirements, Applied Physics majors are responsible for understanding the prerequisites of their intended program. The typical curriculum consists of three years at UC followed by two years at UK, though this timeframe may vary depending on personal circumstances. UC strongly recommends that students complete introductory engineering courses during the summer prior to transferring. Some engineering branches may require additional coursework (often in physics, mathematics, programming, chemistry, or biology), which can extend the time needed to complete both degrees. For those transferring to the University of Kentucky, completing the full UC general education curriculum qualifies students as UK Gen Ed Certified, allowing them to transfer those credits as a block rather than meeting UK Core requirements individually.

Anchor: Mission & Goals

Mission & Goals

The mission of the applied physics degree program at ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ is to provide a solid foundation for students to pursue successful careers in physics, engineering, mathematics, secondary education, and other related fields.

Cultivate critical-thinking skills

Develop skills in experimental physics

Apply physical principles

Expand knowledge in mathematics

Recognize your professional and ethical responsibilities

Anchor: Career Outcomes

Applied Physics Careers & Outcomes

All stats from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Physicist or Astronomer: $147,450

Physicist or Astronomer: $147,450

Physicists and astronomers study the interactions of matter and energy.

Physics Teacher: $86,550

Physics Teacher: $86,550

Teach courses pertaining to the laws of matter and energy. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

Nuclear Engineer: $120,380

Nuclear Engineer: $120,380

Nuclear engineers research and develop projects or address problems concerning the release, control, and use of nuclear energy and nuclear waste disposal.

Electro-Mechanical Technologist: $60,360

Electro-Mechanical Technologist: $60,360

Electro-mechanical and mechatronics technologists and technicians operate, test, and maintain electromechanical or robotic equipment.

Physics Professor: $79,640

Physics Professor: $79,640

Postsecondary teachers instruct students in a variety of academic subjects beyond the high school level.

Mechanical Engineer: $95,300

Mechanical Engineer: $95,300

Mechanical engineers design, develop, build, and test mechanical and thermal sensors and devices.

Anchor: FAQs

Common Questions

Anchor: Faculty

Faculty Experts in Physics

Learn more about your future physics professors!

Amy Bowman

Amy Bowman

Adjunct Professor
Mathematics

Amy Bowman

Contact Information

amy.bowman [at] ucumberlands.edu
Remote
Debbie Pierce

Debbie Pierce

Adjunct Professor
Mathematics

Debbie Pierce

Contact Information

debbie.pierce [at] ucumberlands.edu
Remote
Kenny Siler

Kenny Siler

Associate Professor
Mathematics

Kenny Siler

Contact Information

kenneth.siler [at] ucumberlands.edu
Available by appointment only

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