B.A. in Women & Gender Studies
Queens College offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across variou...
B.A. in Applied Physics
New York City, New York
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The B.A. in Applied Physics at Queens College is designed to provide students with a strong theoretical and experimental foundation in physics, coupled with a focus on how these principles are applied in real-world technological contexts. The program prepares graduates for careers in various technical disciplines, for continued graduate studies in physics or engineering, or for science education. It emphasizes analytical thinking, problem-solving, and hands-on laboratory experience, ensuring students are well-equipped for the demands of modern scientific and technological fields. The curriculum is flexible, often allowing students to pursue interests in areas like electronics, telecommunications, and optics.
STEM-Designated: Yes, the B.A. in Applied Physics program at Queens College is officially STEM-designated. This designation is highly advantageous, especially for international students, as it allows for an additional 24-month Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension beyond the initial 12 months, accumulating to a total of 36 months of work authorization in the U.S. after graduation. This reflects the program's strong alignment with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields, indicating its rigorous quantitative and technical nature.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.A. in Applied Physics is robust, starting with a core sequence of physics and mathematics courses. Key components typically include "Principles of Physics I & II" (with accompanying labs), "Calculus I, II, and III," "Mathematical Methods in Physics," "Mechanics," "Modern Physics," "Thermodynamics," and "Electromagnetism I." Students also engage in dedicated laboratory courses to develop experimental skills. The "Applied Physics" track distinguishes itself by including courses like "Solid State Electronics" and often offering electives in areas such as optoelectronics and telecommunications, providing practical, industry-relevant knowledge. The program also encourages students to use general electives to explore dual majors, minors, or prerequisites for graduate or professional schools.
Research Focus: The Department of Physics at Queens College is highly active in research, with faculty engaged in both experimental and theoretical investigations. Their research focuses primarily on Optics and Condensed Matter Physics. Specific experimental programs include studies of quantum dots, nanocrystals, nanowires, semiconductor heterostructures, metamaterials, and optical/microwave propagation in random media. Theoretical research spans topics like nanoplasmonics, spasers (surface plasmon amplification by stimulated emission of radiation), photonic nanostructures, and transport in quantum point contacts (QPCs). Undergraduates are strongly encouraged to participate in these ongoing research projects, providing valuable hands-on experience in state-of-the-art facilities like the Class 1000 microfabrication facility. This active research environment ensures students are exposed to cutting-edge scientific inquiry.
Industry Engagement: The B.A. in Applied Physics program at Queens College fosters strong industry engagement by developing highly sought-after technical and analytical skills. The curriculum is designed to impart "state-of-the-art knowledge and technical hands-on skills that are in high demand with numerous technical industries." The department's focus on areas like electronics and optics directly translates into industry relevance. While specific formal "industry partnerships" might not be explicitly detailed, the faculty's collaborative research with industrial and government laboratories provides indirect engagement and access to real-world problems and facilities. Queens College also benefits from its location in New York City, which offers abundant internship and career opportunities in technology, engineering, and related sectors. The college's Career Design Lab and advisory services further assist students in securing these experiences and connecting with employers. Alumni have gone on to work for major companies like Microsoft, Goldman Sachs, and General Dynamics Corporation.
Global Perspective: The B.A. in Applied Physics at Queens College inherently maintains a strong global perspective, largely due to the universal nature of physics and the international scope of scientific and technological advancements. The faculty's diverse research collaborations often extend internationally, bringing global insights into the classroom. Furthermore, Queens College itself is renowned for its exceptional cultural diversity, with students speaking over 96 languages. This vibrant multicultural environment naturally fosters a global mindset, preparing students to collaborate with diverse teams and contribute to international scientific endeavors. The rigorous training in applied physics is globally recognized, enabling graduates to pursue career or academic opportunities worldwide.
Location
New York City, New York
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 19207
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 61 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 44 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.
Queens College, United States of America, is supporting international students through various scholarship opportunities designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Queens College offers a range of merit-based scholarships specifically available to international students. These awards are typically granted based on academic achievement, standardized test scores, and overall potential. Some scholarships are automatically considered during the admissions process, while others may require separate applications.
Queens College Foundation Scholarships: The Queens College Foundation administers several scholarships funded by alumni and donors. These scholarships reward outstanding academic performance and community service. International students are encouraged to explore these opportunities and apply early to maximize their chances of receiving aid.
Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at Queens College provide scholarships for students excelling in their respective fields. International students can inquire within their chosen department about specialized awards, grants, and assistantships that may be available during their studies.
External Scholarships: Queens College encourages international students to seek external scholarships offered by governments, private organizations, and international education foundations.
Queens College, part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system, offers a STEM-designated Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Applied Physics. This program stands out by equipping students with a robust understanding of fundamental physics principles and their practical applications in various technological and industrial settings.
Research & Development (R&D) Engineer/Technician: Applied physics graduates are well-suited for R&D roles in various industries, including electronics, telecommunications, energy, and materials science. They contribute to developing new products, improving existing technologies, and conducting experiments in laboratory settings.
Optical Engineer: With specialized knowledge in optics and photonics, graduates can work in industries that design, develop, and test optical components and systems, such as lasers, fiber optics, sensors, and imaging devices. This is a particularly strong area given the research focus of the Queens College physics department.
Electrical Engineer: The curriculum's focus on electromagnetism and electronics provides a strong foundation for roles in electrical engineering. Graduates can work on designing, developing, and maintaining electrical systems and components for diverse applications, from consumer electronics to power systems.
Data Scientist/Analyst: The strong quantitative and analytical skills inherent in a physics degree, combined with training in experimental methods, make applied physics graduates excellent candidates for data science. They can analyze complex datasets, build predictive models, and extract insights for various industries.
Software Developer/Engineer: Physics majors possess strong logical reasoning and problem-solving abilities, which are highly transferable to software development. They can work on designing, coding, and testing software applications, particularly in scientific computing, simulations, or specialized technical software.
Materials Scientist/Engineer: Applied physicists understand the fundamental properties of materials at a microscopic level. This expertise is crucial in the development of new materials with specific properties for various applications, including semiconductors, polymers, and advanced composites.
Quality Control/Assurance Engineer: In manufacturing and technology companies, applied physics graduates can ensure that products meet specified quality standards. They apply scientific principles and measurement techniques to test products, identify flaws, and improve production processes.
Technical Sales/Support Engineer: Graduates who enjoy communicating technical concepts can excel in technical sales or support roles. They leverage their understanding of scientific principles to explain complex products or services to clients and provide technical assistance.
Science Educator/Teacher: For those passionate about teaching, a B.A. in Applied Physics provides an excellent foundation to pursue a career as a high school physics or science teacher, inspiring the next generation of STEM professionals.
Aerospace Engineer (with further specialization): While often requiring a dedicated engineering degree, the core physics and mathematical training provides a solid base for aspiring aerospace engineers. They might work on the design, development, and testing of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems, often requiring further graduate studies or specialized training.
