Department Requirements


The Physics Major

The major program depends to some extent on the student's goals, which should be discussed with the department. Those who intend to do graduate work in physics or an allied field should plan to do an honors project. Students interested in engineering should investigate the Engineering Programs available through Bowdoin. A major student with an interest in an interdisciplinary area such as geophysics, biophysics, or oceanography will choose appropriate courses in related departments. Secondary school teaching requires a broad base in science courses, as well as the necessary courses for teacher certification. For a career in industrial management, some courses in economics and government should be included.

Requirements for the Major in Physics

A student majoring in physics is expected to complete Mathematics 161, 171, Physics 103, 104, 223, 229, one 300-level methods course (Physics 300, 301, or 302), and three additional approved courses above 104 (one of which may be Mathematics 181 or above). At least five physics courses must be taken at Bowdoin.


For honors work, a student is expected to complete Mathematics 181, and Physics 103, 104, 223, 229, 300, 310, 451, and four additional courses, two of which must be at the 300 level, and one of which may be in mathematics above Mathematics 181.

Requirements for the Minor in Physics

The minor consists of at least four Bowdoin physics courses numbered 103 or higher, one of which is Physics 104.

Interdisciplinary Majors

The department participates in interdisciplinary programs in chemical physics, and geology and physics.

Advanced Placement

Students who received a score of 4 or higher on the Physics B or the Physics C: Mechanics exam will receive one AP credit upon the successful completion of Physics 104 with a grade of C- or better.  If a student does not meet the minimum C- grade requirement, the student may retake the course.  In order to receive AP credit, students should complete their course requirements before the end of their junior year. No AP credit will be awarded if a student takes Physics 103.  No AP credit will be awarded for the Physics C: E & M exam. 

For more information, contact Dominica Lord-Wood, the Academic Department Coordinator, who will forward the inquiry to the department chair or appropriate faculty member.

International Baccalaureate Placement

Students who have taken Higher Level IB Physics with the Optics Option and earned a score of 6 or 7 on the IB exam may receive two IB credits upon the successful completion of Physics 223 with a grade of C- or better.  Students who have taken Higher Level IB Physics without the Optics Option and earned a score of 6 or 7 on the IB exam may receive one IB credit upon the successful completion of Physics 104 with a grade of C- or better.  If a student does not meet the minimum grade requirement, the student may retake the course.  In order to receive IB credit, students should complete their course requirements before the end of their junior year.

Any student who takes Physics 104 is only eligible for one IB credit.  Students who take Physics 103 are ineligible for IB credit.