Physics & Computer Science
Bachelor of Science
Program Overview
Physics and computer science are deeply connected fields that together provide a pathway to a wide variety of careers. In this program, you’ll develop powerful ways to understand and solve complex problems, applying computational tools to explore and analyze a variety of physical systems.
At BJU, you’ll develop both scientific insight and technical expertise through hands-on learning and faculty mentorship. As you study the relationship between matter, energy, and information, you’ll grow in your appreciation for the Creator while preparing for a range of technical and research-oriented careers.
Your Future
- Computational Physicist
- Software Developer
- Systems Analyst
- Laboratory Scientist
- Data or Financial Analyst
- Web Developer
- Intelligence Analyst
- Programmer
The combination of physics and computer science opens doors to a wide variety of careers that require both analytical and technical expertise. Graduates may pursue roles such as:
Career Support
BJU offers students a variety of ways to network with employers and organizations. A multitude of job opportunities are posted each year on Career Central, our online job board. In addition, more than 60 businesses and 150 Christian schools/mission boards/Christian organizations come on campus to recruit students through on-campus interviews and job/ministry fairs.
Career Services also helps students by holding seminars on resume preparation and interview techniques.
Graduates will be prepared to enter careers in industry, research labs, government agencies, and technology organizations, or to continue their education at the graduate level.
Learning Experience
Hands-On Learning
Throughout your coursework, you’ll engage in both experimental and programming projects that reinforce the connection between physical systems and computational approaches. You’ll gain practical experience in computational development while studying physical systems such as ray tracing, quantum theory, and nonlinear dynamics.
Research Opportunities
You’ll have opportunities to work with faculty on research projects that integrate physics and computation. These experiences may include modeling physical systems, analyzing experimental data, or developing computational tools for scientific applications.
Faculty
Dr. Nick Gothard has a background in condensed matter physics, with emphasis on the effects of composition and microstructure on the electrical, thermal, and optical properties of semiconductors. His interests include isolated defects in bulk and nanomaterials, and he is proficient with a variety of experimental and computational methods.
Courses/Objectives
1st Year
2nd Year
3rd Year
- Computer Systems
- Intro to Database Management Systems
- Doctrines: Bibliology to Angelology
- Physics Elective
(3 credits) - Electives
(3 credits)
- General Geology
- Linear Algebra
- Doctrines: Anthropology to Eschatology
- Christianity & the Arts
- EXP Elective
(1 credit) - Electives
(2 credits)
4th Year
- Foundations of Economics
- Oral Communication for the Professions
- Mathematics Elective
(3 credits) - Electives
(6 credits)
- Worldview & Apologetics
- Phy or CpS Capstone Elective
(3 credits) - Computer Science Elective
(3 credits) - Electives
(6 credits)
- Program
- BJU Core
- Elective
Program Objectives
Each student will:
- Apply core physics principles to problem solving.
- Apply fundamental concepts in computer science to a physical system.
- Apply mathematical knowledge to solutions to problems.
- Design and implement efficient solutions to problems in various domains.
- Compose reports that communicate results drawn from data analysis.
- Analyze scientific results in terms of a biblical worldview.