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Physics (Secondary Education) ,BS

Physics (Secondary Education), BS

- INACTIVE

Academic programs / Undergraduate degrees / Physics (Secondary Education)

approved for STEM-OPT extension

ASU is no longer accepting new students to this program. Please explore Degree Search for other similar program options.


Are you interested in the physical world yet also have a passion for teaching? In this specialized concentration, you'll gain an excellent foundation in science while building expertise that enables you to fill in-demand opportunities in secondary education.

Program description

The BS program in physics with a concentration in secondary education provides rigorous training in physics and in education. Physics is the cornerstone of STEM disciplines --- science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

In addition to gaining a solid foundation in physical science and mathematics, students acquire the knowledge and skills they need to enter the secondary school teaching profession as a certified physics teacher or to attend graduate school for physics.

STEM-OPT for international students on F-1 visas

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 36 months. This OPT work authorization term may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.

The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing the degree through ASU Online.

At a glance
  • Second language requirement: No
  • First required math course: MAT 270 - Calculus w/Analytic Geometry I
  • Math intensity: Substantial program math intensity substantial

Required courses (Major Map)
Concurrent program options
Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Admission requirements

General university admission requirements:

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First-year | Transfer | International | Readmission

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Transfer options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.

Global opportunities
Global experience

Students wishing to pursue a future in education must understand the diverse set of experiences, backgrounds and cultures that can shape the students in their classrooms. A study abroad program can enhance their physics degree by providing them with firsthand experience of various cultures and communities.

Each of the more than 300 Global Education program options provide students with the opportunity for personal enrichment and to develop a valuable skill set that can give them an advantage in their career. Whether in a foreign country, in the U.S. or online, students are encouraged to build communication skills, challenged to adapt and persevere, exposed to differences across the world, and they increase their ability to work with diverse groups of people.

Career opportunities

The shortage of highly qualified physics teachers in every state is an ongoing problem. This concentration is designed to produce more and better-qualified physics teachers to meet local and national needs. Graduates are recommended by the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College for certification by the State of Arizona.

Graduates of the secondary education concentration have the flexibility to select from jobs in diverse fields. The combination of science and education curriculum provides a range of career choices, such as:

  • business
  • engineering
  • materials science
  • secondary education

They can also choose to pursue graduate studies in:

  • astronomy
  • education
  • engineering
  • medicine
  • physics
Professional licensure

ASU programs that may lead to professional licensure or certification are intended to prepare students for potential licensure or certification in Arizona. Completion of an ASU program may not meet educational requirements for licensure or certification in another state. For more information, students should visit the ASU professional licensure webpage.

Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)?
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a program in which residents of western states (other than Arizona) may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition. See more information and eligibility requirements on the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program.

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