B.Sc. Physics Subjects — From Space Travel to Quantum Computing

Blog / May 28, 2025

B.Sc. PhysicsCourse details of B.Sc. PhysicsB.Sc. Physics scope and beyond

From galaxies orbiting in perfect harmony to electrons shifting between energy levels in atoms, everything in the universe follows some rules of Physics: precise, unbreakable, sophisticated. These laws of nature aren’t random; they’re the reason stars burn, rivers flow, chemical reactions take place, and the whole universe exists.

Today, Physics is shaping the future. Whether engineers are working with quantum computers or nanoparticles, they are relying on fundamental principles of Physics. These principles power countless technologies around us. From weather prediction and electric vehicles to wireless communication and renewable energy, Physics is at the heart of it all.

It is the study of these laws and calculation, the language through which the universe expresses how things work. Once you begin to understand this, you will start to see patterns everywhere, be it in machines, weather, motion, and even life itself.

The growing demand for people who can understand and apply these laws & principles to solve real-world problems has made Physics a great career choice. And that journey begins with the B.Sc. Physics program.

The B.Sc. Physics syllabus doesn’t just cover classical theories; it trains you in labs, simulations, and experimental thinking. It’s designed for those who want to question how any system works and then build better ones. The B.Sc. Physics subjects are carefully chosen to give you both depth and adaptability: skills that remain valuable no matter where science takes you next.

 

Source: https://www.aip.org/

Table of Contents

• What is B.Sc. Physics?
• Who Should Consider Studying B.Sc. Physics?
• B.Sc. Physics Admission 2025: Eligibility, Application Process & Entrance Exams
• 1st Year B.Sc. Physics Syllabus Detailed Breakdown
• 2nd Year B.Sc. Physics Subjects Overview
• 3rd Year B.Sc. Physics Syllabus Breakdown
• 4th Year B.Sc. Physics Subjects
• Core B.Sc. Physics Subjects: What Will You Learn
• Electives in B.Sc. Physics Syllabus
• B.Sc. Physics Subjects Under Common Core Courses (CCC)
• Minor Subjects and Interdisciplinary Combinations
• Lab Work, Computational Physics, and Practical Learning in the B.Sc. Physics Syllabus
• Career Opportunities after B.Sc. Physics
• Further Studies after B.Sc. Physics
• Innovate in Labs, Contribute to Industry, Solve Big Scientific Questions with a B.Sc. Physics at Shiv Nadar University (Institution of Eminence)
• Conclusion
• FAQs

What is B.Sc. Physics?

B.Sc. Physics is a 3- or a 4-year undergraduate program that helps you understand how the physical world works, from tiny particles to vast galaxies.

Key Things to Know About the B.Sc. Physics Course

Course Level	Undergraduate
Course Name	B.Sc. in Physics
Duration	3-4 years
Full Form	Bachelor of Science in Physics
Eligibility	Minimum 60-75% marks in Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics
Entrance Exam	CUET, University-specific exams
Admission Process	Entrance exam-based / Merit-based
Tuition Fee	₹6 to ₹14 lakhs (varies by institution)

 

Who Should Consider Studying B.Sc. Physics?

You should consider a B.Sc. Physics if:

• You took Physics and Math in Class 12
• You like solving puzzles and working on big questions
• You want flexible options after college (M.Sc., research, data, coding, finance)
• You’re okay with theory, but also want hands-on experiments and projects

B.Sc. Physics Admission 2025: Eligibility, Application Process & Entrance Exams

Before applying, you need to match the B.Sc. Physics eligibility criteria.

Basic Eligibility for B.Sc. Physics:

• You must pass Class 12 with PCM or PCBM
• Minimum of 50-75% aggregate score in the 12th grade
• 5% relaxation in minimum marks for reserved classes
• Some universities may ask for an entrance exam score

Key Entrance Exams for B.Sc. Physics Admission 2025

• CUET
• JEE
• IISER Aptitude Test
• MHT CET
• WBJEE and 
• University-Specific Exams, like SNUSAT

Step-by-Step Admission Process for B.Sc. Physics 

1. Check Eligibility Criteria 
2. Choose Entrance Exams
3. Registration and Application Form
4. Prepare and Appear for Entrance Exams
5. Await Results
6. Participate in the Counseling/Admission Process and 
7. Secure Admission

1st Year B.Sc. Physics Syllabus Detailed Breakdown

Semester 1	Semester 2
PHY 103 - Fundamentals of Physics I	PHY 104 - Fundamentals of Physics II
PHY 105 - Introduction to Computational Physics I	PHY 106 - Introduction to Computational Physics II
MAT 101 - Calculus I	MAT 102 - Calculus II
CHY 111 - Chemical Principles	UWE - University-Wide Elective
CCC / UWE - Common Core / Elective	UWE - University-Wide Elective
CCC - Common Core Course	CCC - Common Core Course

 

2nd Year B.Sc. Physics Subjects Overview

Semester 3	Semester 4
PHY 201 - Fundamentals of Thermal Physics	PHY 202 - Introduction to Quantum Mechanics
PHY 203 - Introduction to Mathematical Physics I	PHY 204 - Introduction to Mathematical Physics II
PHY 205 - Waves and Oscillations	PHY 206 - Electronics I
UWE - University-Wide Elective	PHY 208 - Advanced Experimental Physics I
UWE - University-Wide Elective	CCC / UWE - Common Core / Elective
CCC - Common Core Course	CCC - Common Core Course

 

3rd Year B.Sc. Physics Syllabus Breakdown

Semester 5	Semester 6
PHY 301 - Classical Mechanics	PHY 302 - Statistical Physics
PHY 303 - Classical Electrodynamics	PHY 304 - Condensed Matter Physics
PHY 305 - Quantum Mechanics I	PHY 306 - Quantum Mechanics II
PHY 307 - Electronics II	PHY 308 - Advanced Experimental Physics II
UWE - University-Wide Elective	UWE - University-Wide Elective
CCC - Common Core Course	CCC - Common Core Course

 

4th Year B.Sc. Physics Subjects

Semester 7	Semester 8
PHY 4XX/5XX - Physics Elective	PHY 4XX/5XX - Physics Elective
PHY 4XX/5XX - Physics Elective	PHY 4XX/5XX - Physics Elective
PHY 499 - Undergraduate Thesis	PHY 499 - Undergraduate Thesis

 

Core B.Sc. Physics Subjects: What Will You Learn

PHY 101: Introduction to Physics - I

• Fundamentals of mechanics
• Thermal Physics

PHY 102: Introduction to Physics - II

• Continuation of PHY 101
• Electricity and Magnetism
• Maxwell’s equations
• Electromagnetic wave
• Wave optics

PHY 103: Fundamentals of Physics - I & PHY 104: Fundamentals of Physics - II

• Newtonian mechanics
• Special theory of relativity
• Electromagnetism
• Foundational lab work

PHY 105: Introduction to Computational Physics - I

• Introduction to Computational Physics 
• Solving differential equations

PHY 106: Introduction to Computational Physics - II

• Solving partial differential equations
• Applications from PHY 104

PHY 108: Physics for Life

• Newtonian mechanics
• Fluids
• Thermodynamics
• Electricity & Magnetism
• Wave optics

PHY 201: Fundamentals of Thermal Physics

• Laws of thermodynamics
• Statistical basis of thermodynamics
• Energy and entropy

PHY 202: Introduction to Quantum Mechanics

• Foundations of quantum theory
• Schrödinger equation
• Contemporary applications

PHY 203: Introduction to Mathematical Physics – I & PHY 204: Introduction to Mathematical Physics – II

• Linear vector spaces
• Mathematics for Physics
• Differential forms

PHY 205: Waves and Oscillations

• Oscillating systems
• Normal modes and wave equations
• Interference, diffraction, and polarization

PHY 206: Electronics - I

• Circuit design
• Voltage & current sources
• Filters
• Thermionic emission
• Diodes, transistors, oscillators, etc.
• Working with a multi-meter, cathode ray oscilloscope, etc.

PHY 207: Abridged Course for Minor Physics

• Newtonian mechanics
• Classical electromagnetism
• Designed for students from the PHY 101 & 102 track

PHY 208: Advanced Experimental Physics – I

• Experimental thermodynamics
• Optics experiments
• Modern Physics lab-based learning

PHY 301: Classical Mechanics

• Lagrangian mechanics
• Rigid body motion
• Hamiltonian formalism

PHY 302: Statistical Physics

• Fundamental principles of statistical Physics and thermodynamics
• Classical and quantum gases
• Phase transitions

PHY 303: Classical Electrodynamics

• Advanced electrodynamics
• PDE techniques in field theory

PHY 304: Condensed Matter Physics

• Crystals, lattices, and symmetry group of lattices
• Lattice vibrations
• Electrons in solid, conductors, insulators, & semi-conductors

PHY 305: Quantum Mechanics - I

• Dirac formalism
• Quantum dynamics
• Theory of angular momentum
• Symmetry in quantum mechanics
• Approximation methods

PHY 306: Quantum Mechanics – II

• Scattering theory
• Systems with identical particles
• Second quantization
• Bose and Fermi Statistics
• Introduction to atomic and nuclear physics

PHY 307: Electronics – II

• Boolean algebra
• Logic gates
• Advanced electronic circuits
• 8085/8086 microprocessor

PHY 308: Advanced Experimental Physics – II

• Experiments in condensed matter
• Matter-energy interaction
• Instrumentation and measurement techniques

PHY 499: Undergraduate Thesis

• Two-semester research project
• Faculty-guided independent work
• Current research problem exploration

Electives in B.Sc. Physics Syllabus

PHY 255: Introduction to Biophysics

• Physics concepts in biological systems
• Physical basis of biological processes

PHY 402: Classical Theory of Fields

• Classical electrodynamics as a field theory
• Introduction to general relativity

PHY 406: Advanced Quantum Mechanics

• Relativistic quantum mechanics
• Dirac equation
• Introduction to quantum electrodynamics

PHY 408: Advanced Condensed Matter Physics

• Magnetism
• Super fluidity and superconductivity
• Dielectrics and ferroelectrics

PHY 409: Quantum Field Theory

• Quantum mechanics + special relativity
• Feynman diagrams
• Cross-section calculations for particle interactions

PHY 410: Introduction to High Energy Particle Physics

• Experimental basis of particle Physics
• Concepts leading to the Standard Model

PHY 411: Classical Field Theory and General Relativity

• Electrodynamics as a field theory
• General relativity fundamentals

PHY 412: Introduction to Experimental Techniques in Particle Physics

• Detectors in particle Physics
• Data acquisition and analysis methods

PHY 413: General Theory of Relativity

• Curved spacetime
• Black holes
• Gravitational waves

PHY 414: Computational and Numerical Analysis

• Root finding algorithms
• Eigenvalues and eigenvectors
• Differential equations
• FFT, interpolation, numerical integration
• FORTRAN implementation

PHY 415: Non-linear Dynamics

• Properties of nonlinear systems
• Nonintegrability concepts

PHY 417: Topics in Quantum Many-Body Theory

• Symmetry in quantum mechanics
• Berry phases
• Strongly correlated systems
• Hubbard and Heisenberg models
• Charge/spin ordering, Mean Field Theory

PHY 418: Introduction to Cosmology

• Basics of cosmology
• Key issues and challenges in the field

PHY 551: Nanomaterials and Nanophysics

• Processing techniques: CVD, lithography, etc.
• Structural, optical, and electronic properties
• Device applications

PHY 554: Advanced Statistical Physics

• Landau-Ginzburg theory
• Renormalization group
• Langevin dynamics
• Fokker-Planck equation
• Topological defects and phase transitions

PHY 556: Introduction to Quantum Field Theory

• Quantum field techniques
• Applications in condensed matter and particle Physics

PHY 558: Semiconductor Physics and Devices

• Energy bands and defects
• Optical/electronic properties
• Diodes, LEDs, FETs, LASERs
• Flexible and organic semiconductors

PHY 560: Particle Physics Phenomenology

• Decay rates, scattering
• Electron-positron and electron-proton interactions
• QCD and electroweak theory
• Higgs and beyond Standard Model

PHY 562: Experimental Techniques in Particle Physics

• Modern detectors (drift chambers, calorimeters, etc.)
• Data analysis in particle Physics
• Advanced statistical methods

PHY 564: Advanced Simulation Techniques

• Monte Carlo and molecular dynamics
• Quantum simulations
• Variational principles
• Hartree-Fock and DFT

PHY 566: Introduction to String Theory

• Relativistic strings
• Quantum mechanics in string theory context
• Mathematical applications of string concepts

PHY 568: Multiferroics and Shape Memory Alloys

• Dielectrics and ferroelectric materials
• Pyroelectricity and piezoelectricity
• Shape memory alloy behavior and applications

PHY 570: BIOSENSORS: General Principles and Advanced Sensing Techniques

• Sensor fundamentals
• Bio-MEMS and microfluidics
• Fluorescence, SPR, impedance, SERS, SPM techniques

PHY 572: Soft Matter Physics

• Physics of polymers, gels, colloids, emulsions
• Liquid crystals and membranes
• Interdisciplinary approach (biophysics, materials science)

PHY 574: Materials Characterization Techniques - I

• Interaction with photons
• UPS, Raman, FTIR, UV-Vis, PL, EL, CL, XAFS

PHY 575: Materials Characterization Techniques - II

• Interaction with electrons, ions, neutrons
• TEM, SEM, SPM, AFM, XRD
• XPS, SIMS

PHY 578: Introduction to Thin Films

• Thin film growth and vacuum systems
• Evaporation, sputtering, CVD, MBE
• Optical, mechanical, and electrical properties
• Thin-film device applications

PHY 588: Fundamentals of Ion-Solid Interactions

• Ion beam processes and scattering theory
• Energy loss and radiation damage
• Ion mixing, alloying, and semiconductor doping

PHY 589: Ion Beam Based Materials Characterization Techniques

• Ion accelerator
• Instrumentations
• Basic interaction of matter with ions
• Energy loss process
• Elastic and non–elastic scatterings

PHY 590: Introduction to Astronomy and Astrophysics

• Fundamental concepts in astronomy
• Historical and modern developments
• Problem-solving in astrophysics

PHY 595: Astroparticle Physics and Cosmology

• Key topics in astroparticle Physics
• Theoretical and observational cosmology
• Particle interactions in astrophysical settings

PHY 490: Astrophysics

• Ion-matter interactions
• Rutherford backscattering spectrometry 
• Nuclear reaction analysis
• Pitfalls in ion beam analysis
• Elastic recoil detection analysis

B.Sc. Physics Subjects Under Common Core Courses (CCC)

CCC: Astronomy for Amateurs

• Our place in the cosmos
• The starry sky and its interpretation
• Historical development of astronomy
• Light and telescopes
• The Sun, stars, and solar system
• Stellar evolution
• Galaxies and the Big Bang
• Possibility of life beyond Earth

CCC: Energy Storage Systems

• Overview of modern energy storage technologies
• Principles of operation and technical characteristics
• Role of storage in managing renewable energy
• Applications across energy sectors

CCC: Early History of the Universe: The First Three Minutes

• Evidence for the Big Bang
• Evolution of the early universe
• Scientific interpretation of the universe’s first three minutes

CCC: Visible and Invisible Light Waves: How They Have Changed Our Modern Life

• Introduction to electromagnetic waves
• Properties of radio, microwave, infrared, visible, UV, X-rays, and gamma rays
• Generation and detection of light waves
• Practical applications in daily life
• Socio-economic impacts of light-based technologies

CCC: Atmospheric Aerosols & Climate

• Basics of atmospheric aerosols
• Classification and physical properties
• Impact on climate and air quality
• Health effects with focus on Indian context

CCC: Science, Engineering, and the Modern World

• Relationship between science and engineering
• Pre-modern knowledge systems
• Scientific thinking in the modern era
• Influence of engineering on shaping society

CCC: Energy for a Sustainable Future

• Global energy challenges
• Renewable and sustainable energy options
• Environmental impacts of energy choices

CCC: Uses of Energy in Our Daily Life

• Understanding the concept of energy in everyday contexts
• Forms and transformations of energy
• Real-life examples of energy use

CCC: Physical Laws: From Non-living to Living

• Universality of physical laws
• Application of physical laws to biological systems
• Industrial use of physical laws
• Bridging Physics with innovation and business

CCC: Let’s Understand Devices at Home

• Physics behind everyday household devices
• Troubleshooting common device malfunctions
• Developing repair skills and responsible usage
• Examples: fans, tube lights, heaters, adaptors, geysers, grinders

CCC: Demystifying the Strange Quantum World for the Layman

• Historical development of quantum Physics
• Introduction to quantum concepts for non-specialists
• Key figures and milestones in quantum theory
• Conceptual understanding of quantum phenomena

Minor Subjects and Interdisciplinary Combinations

Some colleges offer minors that you can take alongside your Physics major. For example, you can combine:

• Physics + Mathematics (great for theoretical research)
• Physics + Economics (ideal for data jobs or finance)
• Physics + Computer Science (useful for AI, simulations, analytics)

Why take a minor?

• It gives you more career paths
• You stand out in your job and M.Sc. applications
• It builds a cross-functional skill set

Lab Work, Computational Physics, and Practical Learning in the B.Sc. Physics Syllabus

You won’t just learn Physics from books. You’ll build, break, and rebuild things until you understand how they work. This is part of the B.Sc. Physics syllabus is where you apply the theories from class.

Lab Work You Can Expect

You’ll start with basic experiments in the 1st year B.Sc. Physics syllabus, like:

• Measuring acceleration with inclined planes
• Verifying Ohm’s law and Kirchhoff’s rules
• Using a CRO to study AC and DC waveforms

By the second and third year, labs go deeper:

• Measuring Planck’s constant using LEDs
• Determining the band gap of semiconductors
• Building logic gates and amplifiers
• Testing magnetic and dielectric properties

Most labs include:

• Data recording
• Graph plotting (manual or software)
• Uncertainty and error analysis
• Lab reports with full reasoning

This trains you in how real-world Physics works—in devices, in labs, and in tech systems.

Computational Physics: Your Coding Toolkit

Coding is not optional anymore. It’s part of most jobs you’ll do after a B.Sc. in Physics. That’s why most top colleges for B.Sc. Physics in India now includes computational Physics as a core subject, starting in the first year.

You’ll write programs to:

• Solve equations of motion
• Simulate radioactive decay
• Plot wave packets in quantum mechanics
• Model heat transfer in solids

This section of the B.Sc. Physics syllabus boosts your resume. Many students use this skill to switch into:

• Data science internships
• Physics-based simulations for engineering firms
• Coding projects in research labs

Equipment You’ll Use

• Cathode Ray Oscilloscope (CRO)
• Optical benches and lenses
• Signal generators
• Digital multimeters
• Microprocessor kits
• Microscope
• Prism
• Chromatography apparatus
• Optical equipment
• Resistor
• Rheostat
• Screw gauge
• Sonometer

Career Opportunities after B.Sc. Physics

Your job options depend on what you do during your degree. If you’ve taken the right electives, learned coding, and worked in labs or on a research project, you’re in a strong position.

You can apply for roles including consulting physicist, junior scientist, lab technician, radiologist, professor, and researcher at government organizations such as:

• DRDO
• Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics
• ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization)
• BARC (Bhabha Atomic Research Centre)
• ONGC (Oil and Natural Gas Corporation)

You can prepare for other government jobs in the public service sector:

• UPSC (Union Public Service Commission)
• State PSC (Public Service Commission)
• SSC (Staff Selection Commission)
• Public sector undertakings
• Indian railways

Not only this, you can apply for many other key job roles, including:

• Data Analyst/Scientist
• Physicist
• Lab technician
• Content developer
• Academic counsellor
• Subject-matter expert
• Junior research fellow
• Research scientist
• Simulation specialist
• Quality control analyst

Further Studies after B.Sc. Physics

Popular Courses after B.Sc. Physics

• M.Sc. Physics: The direct next step, offered at IITs, IISERs, and DU
• Integrated M.Sc.-PhD: At places like TIFR, IISc, IITs
• M.Tech or M.Sc. in Applied Fields: Nanotech, Photonics, Materials Science
• Interdisciplinary PG Courses: Computational Physics, Data Science, Quantum Computing

Entrance Exams to Target after B.Sc. Physics

• IIT JAM
• CSIR-NET
• UGC-NET
• GATE (Physics)
• GRE (Physics)
• JEST

Innovate in Labs, Contribute to Industry, Solve Big Scientific Questions With a B.Sc. Physics at Shiv Nadar University (Institution of Eminence)

Choosing the right University for your B.Sc. Physics degree means finding a place that offers more than just lectures and labs. You need an institution that builds your conceptual foundation, hones your research and computational skills, and opens pathways to real careers in science, technology, and beyond. That’s exactly what Shiv Nadar University delivers.

B.Sc. (Research) in Physics is a 4-year undergraduate program offered under the School of Natural Science at Shiv Nadar University. If you're serious about building a strong academic foundation with real-world relevance, then this is the best place for you.

• Recognized as an Institution of Eminence by the Government of India
• An interdisciplinary, research-led curriculum
• State-of-the-art lab infrastructure
• Minors and electives across disciplines
• Collaborative, global-ready learning environment
• Research-oriented study
• Scholarships and financial aid to deserving students 
• Faculty from India’s and the world’s top institutions

If you're looking for a university that values both intellectual rigor and curiosity-driven learning, Shiv Nadar University is where your journey begins.

Conclusion

B.Sc. Physics is the right choice if you want strong problem-solving skills, hands-on lab experience, and a future in science, tech, or analytics. The B.Sc. Physics syllabus includes theory, experimentation, programming, and research: all structured to make you career-ready.

From the 1st year B.Sc. Physics syllabus to advanced electives, each subject builds a pathway to higher studies or job roles across industries. Whether you aim for M.Sc., research, or data-driven roles, this degree gives you the edge.

If you're looking for a B.Sc. Physics program that values deep thinking, interdisciplinary flexibility, and real-world application, then apply now at Shiv Nadar University. It offers a future-ready environment that empowers you to explore, experiment, and evolve.

FAQs

Q: What is the B.Sc. Physics eligibility for most colleges?

A: You need Physics and Mathematics in Class 12, usually with at least 60% marks.

Q: What’s covered in the 1st year B.Sc. Physics syllabus?

A: You’ll study classical mechanics, waves, basic electronics, programming, calculus, and perform core lab experiments.

Q: Are there good courses after a B.Sc. Physics?

A: Yes. You can go for M.Sc. (Physics), Applied Physics, Data Science, or even start with short tech-based courses in AI or analytics.