About this Program

A degree in physics, with professional concentration, is designed for students who wish to create a specialized program of study which combines a strong foundation in physics with strong preparation in another field. Such other fields include chemistry, pre-health, computer science, to name a few.

Program Highlights

  • Selected by the University to achieve national prominence, taking advantage of Old Dominion’s proximity (a half-hour drive) to the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility (TJNAF), the world’s premier nuclear physics research facility, and the NASA Langley Research Center.

  • The Physics department has grown tremendously in the past 20 years, with double the number of faculty, new teaching and laboratory facilities and modernized computer-based undergraduate laboratories.

  • The addition of the new Physical Sciences Research Building offers substantial opportunities for research to graduate and undergraduate students alike.

AT A GLANCE
Degree Level
Undergraduate
Degree Earned
Bachelor of Science
Delivery Modes
On-Campus

Careers

Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists

$107,180 Median Salary

Apply remote sensing principles and methods to analyze data and solve problems in areas such as natural resource management, urban planning, or homeland security. May develop new sensor systems, analytical techniques, or new applications for existing systems.

Physicists

$123,080 Median Salary

Conduct research into physical phenomena, develop theories on the basis of observation and experiments, and devise methods to apply physical laws and theories.

Astronomers

$109,560 Median Salary

Observe, research, and interpret astronomical phenomena to increase basic knowledge or apply such information to practical problems.

Physics Teachers, Postsecondary

$101,190 Median Salary

Teach courses pertaining to the laws of matter and energy. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

Requirements

What are the requirements to apply for Physics, Professional at ODU?
Students entering the Bachelor of Science program in Physics, Professional should meet the minimum university admission requirements Undergraduate Admission.

Transfer

At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful...

Cost

Estimated rates for the 2023-24 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

Active Duty Military Rate
Cost Per-Credit $250
Virginia Resident
Cost Per-Credit $393
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Cost Per-Credit $407
Non-Resident
Cost Per-Credit $1,073

Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid

Clifford L. and Lillian R. Adams Scholarship

The Department of Physics selects one or more students each year to receive the Clifford L. and Lillian R. Adams Scholarship. The recipient must be a declared physics major and may be an entering freshman, a transfer student, or a continuing student. Selection is based on a student's academic record, relevant test scores, and recommendations. The award is renewable.

Contact

Department of Physics

2100F PHYSICAL SCIENCE BLDG
NORFOLK, 23529