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Physics (BS) - Applied Physics

Undergraduate Program
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Application Deadlines

Important dates and deadlines for undergraduate admissions

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Location

Boone campus

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Costs and Aid

Turn scientific knowledge into real-world solutions.

Applied Physics is a field for problem-solvers and innovators. People are drawn to study the features and forces of the physical world and to then apply that knowledge as they research and develop technology.

Better understand the world around you with App State’s Bachelor of Science (BS) in Physics - Applied Physics.

Whether you choose to continue on to graduate school or pursue a career in industries such as computing, engineering, biotechnology, nanotechnology or statistics, you will be equipped with the necessary knowledge, technical training and problem-solving skills to handle many challenges.

What’s more, fields related to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) are projected to experience much faster job growth than non-STEM fields, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

  • Department of Physics and Astronomy

  • College of Arts and Sciences

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A ‘Best College’ for 2025

The Princeton Review named App State among the best schools in the U.S. and Southeast for 2025.

Top 3 in innovation, undergraduate teaching

U.S. News & World Report has recognized App State as a top three school for innovation and the high quality of its undergraduate instruction for eight consecutive years.

A ‘Best College’ for value

App State’s quality, affordability and student outcomes place it among the nation’s 2024 best schools for value, according to Money.com

Learn more about App State’s accolades

Elevate Your Education

Courses

    • Students pursuing this major explore Modern Physics, Physics Laboratory Techniques and Data Analysis and more.
    Program of Study
    View the Program of Study

Minors

A minor is optional.

View all minors

Transferring Credits

Learn about App State’s credit transfer process, and use our Transfer Equivalency Course Search tool to determine how your courses may transfer to App State.

Related Programs

  • Physics (BA)
  • Physics (BS)
  • Physics (BS) - Astronomy
  • Physics (BS) - Automation and Instrumentation
  • Physics (BS) - Interdisciplinary Science
  • Physics (BS) - Secondary Education

General Education

With courses in history, natural and social sciences and humanities, App State’s General Education Program will reshape your outlook on learning and provide a foundational skill set that will prepare you for any career.

Gen Ed Program Info

Accelerated Master’s

You can begin your graduate studies as an undergraduate and earn your master’s degree in as little as one year.

Accelerated Master’s Info

Careers and Mountaineers

Where can an App State degree take you? Anywhere you want to go! Our passionate and engaged alumni become leaders in their communities and chosen professions.

Careers

  • Astronomer
  • Astrophysicist
  • Atomic Physicist
  • Biophysicist
  • Chemical Physicist
  • Computer System Engineer
  • Engineer
  • Geophysicist
  • Hydrologist
  • Physics Teacher
  • Medical Physicist
  • Meteorologist
  • Physicist
  • Physics Researcher
  • Research & Development Scientist
  • Research Assistant
  • Science Teacher

Some of these roles may require education beyond a bachelor’s degree.

Career information resource

App State’s Career Development Center
Services provided by the Career Development Center include resume reviews, career coaching, job and internship search assistance, and other tools for you to achieve life and professional success.

  • Student Profile: Kara Snow
    Student Profile: Kara Snow

    The summer before entering college, Kara Snow asked Dr. Dan Caton if he would allow her to join his astronomy research team. Much to her surprise, he agreed. With his guidance, she imaged her first binary star system before beginning her first year at Appalachian.

  • Alumna Profile: Nykesha Fyffe ’17
    Alumna Profile: Nykesha Fyffe ’17

    Now a graduate student at North Carolina A&T State University, Nykesha Fyffe plans to use applied physics to improve lives and solve problems of the future.

  • Student Profile: Aeron McConnell
    Student Profile: Aeron McConnell

    McConnell came to Appalachian fascinated by math. Then, an introductory physics course turned him on to a new love. Now, he’s majoring — and succeeding — in both disciplines.

More to Explore at App State

Fund Your Education

Numerous scholarship and financial aid opportunities are available to help fund your App State education. Learn more about scholarships and financial aid.

International Experience

Work outside your cultural boundaries. Learn more.

Hands-on Research

Conduct cutting-edge research alongside faculty mentors. Learn more

State-of-the-art Facilities

Work in state-of-the-art research facilities outfitted with modern equipment. Learn more

Real-world Internships

Gain firsthand experience while earning your degree. Learn more

Find Your Community

Get inspired and get involved by joining App State clubs and organizations, such as the Physics and Astronomy Club. Learn more

Honors College

Develop high-level creative thinking and research skills. Learn more and check out the departmental honors program.

Apply

Are you ready to become a Mountaineer? Take the next step, apply for admission to App State and elevate your future success.

Start Your Application

Admissions questions? Contact us.

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Program Contact

Dr. Brooke C. Hester
Program Director
828-262-6550
[email protected]

College of Arts and Sciences

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Explore App State’s campuses in Boone and Hickory and learn more about what life is like as a Mountaineer.

Attend an information session to get to know App State’s people and programs.

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Have questions related to the App State admissions process? Our admissions counselors are here to help.

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