Physics Program | Department of Physical and Applied Sciences | College of Science and Engineering

Program Overview/Mission

The Physics Program at UHCL exists to prepare students for advanced study in Physics or related fields and for the STEM workforce. We help students develop an analytical approach to problem solving, data collection and analysis; and communicate advanced concepts to their colleagues and the general public.

Physics B.S.

The plan in Physics leads to the bachelor of science degree at the undergraduate level. Our location and the connections our faculty have with National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and allied aerospace industry allow UHCL to offer students unique research opportunities. In addition to our Physics B.S., we also offer a sub-plans in Engineering Physics and Computational Physics. The Houston-Galveston area is a thriving center for many science-intensive industries, from aerospace to petrochemical; thus, the demand for professionals with knowledge of physics is high. Local industries in Houston provide a huge potential to employ individuals with a B.S. in Physics, in addition to the increasing demand for physics teachers in high schools.

This demand is also expected to grow dramatically over the next decade. An undergraduate degree in Physics would enable the students to progress into graduate programs in Physics, Astronomy or Engineering. Students may select electives in areas of particular interest. Physics is a very broad discipline, which can lead to a variety of career options. UHCL Physics program allows for several areas where students can develop a degree plan to support their specific career goals. Some of these areas include: Geophysics, Biophysics, Space Physics, Mathematical Physics, Materials Science, Physics Education, Premedical and Prelaw. Courses needed to support these focus areas are chosen in consultation with a physics advisor and faculty member from a different program.

4-year Plan for Physics B.S. with no specialization
4-year Plan for Physics B.S. with Engineering Physics specialization
4-year Plan for Physics B.S. with Computational Physics specialization

Physics B.S. Degree Information (Undergraduate Catalog)

Physics M.S.

The graduate plan in Physics leads to the master of science degree at UHCL. The goal of this program is to prepare students for Ph.D. level work and advanced research in Physics and Astronomy. This program also serves to expand the knowledge base of practicing engineers. Students in this program gain better problem-solving abilities as well as increased knowledge of several aspects of Physics and Astronomy. The physics program provides students with a deeper understanding of the essential science used in many of the engineering disciplines and in the space industry.

Applicants for candidacy should have a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in one of the physical sciences, mathematics or engineering disciplines. Applicants with other degrees may also apply if they meet the requirements listed below. Equivalent courses or appropriate substitutions will be determined in consultation with a faculty adviser. If background deficiencies exist, students may be required to take courses that will not apply toward the graduate degree.

2-year Plan for Physics M.S. with no specialization
2-year Plan for Physics M.S. with Technical Management specialization
2-year Plan for Collaborative Ph.D. program

Physics M.S. Degree Plan (Graduate Catalog)

Physics Ph.D. Collaborative UHCL/UH Program

This program is a collaboration between the master's program at the University of Houston-Clear Lake and the Doctoral program at the University of Houston. UH will award the PhD and UHCL will support the effort through courses and research opportunities offered at its campus. Select faculty at UHCL may hold joint appointments and can advise PhD Dissertation work. The result is a unique program that allows students to complete a PhD in Physics in the Clear Lake Area.

Physics Ph.D. Collaborative UHCL/UH Program (Graduate Catalog)