Online bachelor's degree programs in physics are hard to find, though on-campus programs are abundantly available. Read more about your options for studying physics at the bachelor's degree level, and find out how online courses work. Get info about furthering your education with a graduate physics degree program, and learn about some job options in the field.
Where Can I Find an Online Bachelor's Degree Program in Physics?
Online bachelor's degree programs in physics do exist, but because of the technical aspects of these programs, they are rare. Available programs will offer you the same educational opportunities that a traditional bachelor's degree program would, but laboratory studies may be limited. If you can't find a suitable online program, you might consider a campus-based bachelor's degree program in physics, which is a widely available degree program at colleges and universities in the U.S. Some of the courses you might take include:
- Chemistry
- Calculus
- Mechanics
- Quantum theory
- Magnetism
If you're looking for some scheduling flexibility, you may be able to find campus-based programs that include some online courses. Degree options include a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Physics, with the B.A. program requiring fewer lab courses. Often these types of programs are also teacher education programs that could prepare you to work as a middle grade or high school teacher.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Common Courses</b></td><td>Calculus, mechanics, magnetism, quantum theory, chemistry</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Additional Requirements</b></td><td>To complete some courses, a fee may be required that covers lab supplies and course content</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Continuing Education</b></td><td>Online physics graduate degrees are available</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)*</b></td><td>$129,850* (for physicists)</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)*</b></td><td>7%* (for physicists)</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---WhatAreTheOnlineProgramRequirements">What Are the Online Program Requirements?</h3><p>Most online courses combine coursework with active laboratory work that can be completed via distance learning. The courses may require an additional fee for the laboratory kit and usually require upper-level math proficiency. Online courses will teach you basic physics concepts, such as measurement and mechanics.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatDoesThisProgramPrepareMeFor">What Does This Program Prepare Me For?</h3><p>If you wish to further your education after you have earned your bachelor's degree, graduate-level online programs in physics are available. Some graduate programs are specially designed for licensed teachers looking to advance their careers, while other programs are more general, offering the chance for busy professionals to complete a graduate program while still working. Online graduate programs in physics offer flexibility with scheduling and provide a wide range of resources, such as online student services, which could help you feel connected to your program.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatCanIDoWithMyDegree">What Can I Do With My Degree?</h3><p>The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that students who possess a bachelor's degree in physics can go on to become technicians, research assistants and high school physics teachers; however, you'll need a teaching license to work as a physics teacher (<i>www.bls.gov</i>). In 2019, the BLS predicted that jobs for physicists would grow 7 percent between 2019 and 2029, with job growth projected to be faster than the national average.</p>
