Illinois State University United States

Physics - Computational Physics (B.S.)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Physics - Computational Physics (B.S.) at Illinois State University equips you to tackle complex scientific challenges using the power of computation. In a world increasingly reliant on data and simulation, computational physicists are vital for exploring phenomena from the subatomic to the cosmic. This undergraduate program is designed for students with a strong aptitude for both theoretical physics and advanced mathematics, preparing you to model and understand physical systems through programming and analytical techniques. You will gain a solid foundation in physics principles alongside essential computing skills, making you a valuable asset in research and industry.

This full-time, on-campus Bachelor of Science degree is studied over four years, integrating core physics courses with intensive computational training. You will engage with topics such as numerical methods, data analysis, and programming languages, often working on projects that mirror real-world scientific inquiry. The curriculum includes senior-level computational physics electives and opportunities to apply your knowledge in practical settings. Upon graduation, you will be prepared for diverse career paths in scientific research, data science, engineering, and further graduate studies in physics or computational fields.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Science program in Computational Physics provides a robust foundation in physics principles and computational methods. Students will engage with core physics courses, advanced mathematics, and specialized computational physics electives. The curriculum is structured across four years, integrating general education requirements with in-depth study to prepare graduates for careers in scientific research and development.

1 First Year - Fall Semester (15 credit hours)

ENG 101 or COM 110 General Education
PHY 107 Compulsory
PHY 110 General Education
MAT 145 General Education
General Education course

2 First Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

ENG 101 or COM 110 General Education
PHY 111 B.S.–SMT course
MAT 146 General Education
IT 166 or IT 168

3 Second Year - Fall Semester (15-16 credit hours)

PHY 112
MAT 147
MAT 260
Foreign language course 111-level or University-wide elective

4 Second Year - Spring Semester (16-17 credit hours)

PHY 217
MAT 175
General Education course/IDEAS course
General Education course
Foreign language course 112-level or University-wide elective

5 Third Year - Fall Semester (16 credit hours)

PHY 220
PHY 240
PHY 307
MAT 340
General Education course
General Education course

6 Third Year - Spring Semester (14 credit hours)

PHY 270
PHY 284
PHY 318
General Education course
AMALI course or University-wide elective

7 Fourth Year - Fall Semester (14 credit hours)

PHY 325
PHY 388
300-level Computational Physics major elective
Senior college level University-wide elective
General Education course

8 Fourth Year - Spring Semester (14-15 credit hours)

PHY 240
PHY 390
PHY 320 or PHY 340 or PHY 384
Senior college level University-wide elective
Senior college level University-wide elective
Senior college level University-wide elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 96,528.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,000.00 - USD 1,600.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Illinois Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Artificial Intelligence & Machine LearningBanking & Financial ServicesCorporate Finance & TreasuryCybersecurityCybersecurity & Network SecurityFintech & Mobile MoneyInsurance & Risk ManagementQuality Control & AssuranceRoad Transport & LogisticsUnmanned Aerial Vehicles (Drones)

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon Web Services

CDW

COUNTRY Financial®

CrowdStrike

Northrop Grumman

Salesforce

Why Study Physics - Computational Physics (B.S.) at Illinois State University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Illinois State University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Illinois State University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Physics - Computational Physics (B.S.) at Illinois State University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during breaks. On-campus employment does not require a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English test requirements, you can take Duolingo with an overall score of 105 or TOEFL with a minimum overall score of 79. Other accepted tests include IELTS and PTE, each with specific score requirements.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as data scientists, research scientists, software developers, or engineers.

What will I actually study in this course?

The program combines core physics courses with computational training, focusing on numerical methods and data analysis. You'll develop strong skills in programming to address scientific challenges from various scales.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

You can start the Physics - Computational Physics (B.S.) program in January, June, or August. Choose any of these months to begin your studies at Illinois State University.
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