Physics Option 1

Return to Programs and Courses in Physics & Astronomy

For students in the BA/MA program, students intending to teach grades 7-12, and students intending to enter the medical profession.

Foundational Courses

Foundational Courses must be completed before embarking upon the major. Students with appropriate background may be exempted from some or all Foundational Courses. See department for proper placement.

MATH 12500 (STEM) - Precalculus
MATH 12600 - Precalculus Technology Laboratory
MATH 15000 (STEM) - Calculus with Analytic Geometry I
Hunter Core Requirement Courses leading to (foundational) or within this major may fulfill parts of the Hunter Core Requirement (CUNY Common Core [CCC], Hunter Focus, Concurrent Requirements). When selecting courses, it may be to a student’s advantage to choose courses that count toward the Hunter Core Requirement and also advance the student on the path to the major. Details on the Hunter Core Requirement can be found here: Hunter Core Requirement.

Option 1

The requirements consist of 8 credits of introductory physics courses

PHYS 11100 (STEM) and PHYS 12000 (STEM) preferred

and a 22-credit concentration in physics courses at the 200 level and higher:

Additionally, 15-24 credits of allied courses (mathematics and chemistry) are also required. Together, the introductory physics and the Option 1 concentration (30 credit total) satisfy the major requirement for initial certification as a teacher of physics in grades 7-12. Option 1, together with the MA (see the Accelerated BA/MA Program in Physics), is recommended for students planning to pursue a PhD in physics.

Preparation for Teaching

The Option 1 major in physics satisfies the requirements for NY State initial certification of at least 30 credits for teachers in adolescent education: physics (grades 7-12). Students planning to become physics teachers at the secondary level should take the 23-credit sequence in secondary education .

Students preparing to teach physics are advised to include the following courses or their equivalents in their undergraduate program: