Overview

The Physics programme at Portland State University provides students with a rigorous foundation in the fundamental laws governing the natural world and the wider universe. By combining theoretical inquiry with hands-on experimental practice, the curriculum prepares learners to solve complex problems across various scientific disciplines. Students engage with diverse topics ranging from the behaviour of biological materials to the origins of the cosmos.

Why Physics at Portland State University?

Choosing this programme allows students to access world-class facilities and research opportunities. Portland State University is home to the Center for Electron Microscopy and Nanofabrication, a premier facility linked with the Oregon Nanoscience and Microtechnologies Institute. This collaboration connects the university with industry partners and national laboratories, providing a unique environment for innovation.

The faculty are recognised leaders in specialised fields such as nanotechnology, atmospheric science, and biophysics. Undergraduates are encouraged to participate in research alongside these experts and present their findings at student symposiums. The programme also offers three distinct pathways—Standard, Environmental, and Biomedical—allowing students to tailor their education to specific career ambitions in healthcare, climate science, or industry.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 34599 per year
National fee: USD 34599 per year
Local fee: USD 12999 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to build core competencies in physical laws and mathematical applications. Modules may include:

Quantum Mechanics
Electricity
Magnetism
Atomic and Nuclear Physics
Heat
Optics
Force and Motion
Physical Properties of Materials
Radiation Therapy Physics

Careers with Physics

Graduates from Portland State University are highly sought after by technical industries and government laboratories due to their analytical and experimental skills. Alumni have secured positions at prominent organisations including Intel, Nike, Lam Research, and Micro Systems Engineering. The degree serves as an excellent platform for professional roles in engineering, data analysis, and technical consultancy.

Furthermore, many students progress to advanced postgraduate study. Recent graduates have been accepted into competitive master's and doctoral programmes in astrophysics, medical physics, and physical chemistry at institutions such as Northwestern University and Oregon Health & Science University. The programme also provides a strong academic basis for those pursuing careers in law or medicine.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

General Physics

Modern Physics

Experimental Physics

Classical Mechanics

Computational Physics

Electricity and Magnetism

Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-07-22 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-05 00:00:00
Starting 2026-09-30 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-06 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-05 00:00:00
Starting 2027-03-31 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-05 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

181 SCH

181-198

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Portland, United States

Disciplines

Physics View 1440 other Bachelors in Physics in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You must have a cumulative (overall) grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 when converted to the U.S. 4.0 grading scale.
Meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement. You may be admitted to Portland State University and an Intensive English Language Program (IELP) pathway if you do not meet PSU's English Language Proficiency Requirement. Learn more about PSU’s English language programs.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Out-of-State

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

12999 USD / year

≈ 12999 USD / year

Living costs

Portland

United States

1271 - 2262 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Physics.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Portland

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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