4+1 Degree Programs in Physics
Save Time & Money
Typically, earning a master's degree takes two years. But with Binghamton University's 4+1 degree programs, you can earn your master's degree with just one extra year of classes. You'll finish both your bachelor's degree and your master's degree in a total of five years.
By choosing an 4+1 degree program, you'll save a full year of tuition dollars. Plus, you'll pay undergraduate tuition rates for your graduate classes during your fourth (senior) year.
How does it work?
You complete most of the coursework for your bachelor's degree in your first three years.
In your fourth year, you take both bachelor's- and master's-level courses, graduate with your bachelor's degree and formally apply to the Graduate School. In your fifth year, you are admitted to the Graduate School and focus solely on graduate coursework.
4+1 Program in Physics and Engineering
The 4+1 engineering program is an educational affiliation between Binghamton University and several engineering schools.
The 4+1 program enables a student to devote three years to the study of liberal arts and sciences at Binghamton before transferring to an engineering school for two years of engineering education. The program leads to a BA in Physics from Binghamton and a bachelor's degree from the engineering school. Preparation for almost any engineering career is available in at least one of the engineering schools. Arrangements have been made with SUNY at Buffalo College of Engineering, Columbia University School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Rochester Institute of Technology College of Engineering, Clarkson University School of Engineering, SUNY at Stony Brook College of Engineering, University of Rochester College of Engineering and Applied Science, and Watson College at Binghamton. Arrangements with other engineering schools are possible and encouraged.
The completion of two sets of requirements in the short period of five years requires careful planning of courses even in the freshman year. Not taking certain crucial courses in the first year may make it difficult to undertake the program in the 4+1 pattern. Though entrance to any given engineering school cannot be guaranteed, our experience has been that careful planning and good academic performance on the part of the student are essential. The student is strongly encouraged to make contact with the chosen engineering school as early as possible so that a careful selection of courses may be made.
The requirements for the BA in physics in the combined engineering program are the same as the normal BA in Physics. Normally, students should take MATH 224/225 and 226/227, and PHYS 121/122, (or PHYS 131/132), in the first year. It is expected that the student will also meet the general education requirements and other Harpur College requirements. An example of one elective course that may be appropriate include CHEM 111. Depending on the chosen engineering field and school, still other courses may have to be considered.
For more detailed information about a BS in the 4+1 engineering program, please consult the University Bulletin (arrival prior to Fall 2024) or the Academic Guide (arrival in Fall 2024 or later) or contact the 4+1 Program Director.
BS (Physics) + BS (Computer Science) Program
The department, in cooperation with the Department of Computer Science in Watson School, has established a five-year program leading to the BS in Physics and the BS in computer science. Graduates of this program are prepared to pursue careers or graduate studies in Physics or computer science. Due to the extensive depth of the program, interested students are urged to contact the Undergraduate Director before their initial registration.
BS (Physics) + MS (Materials Science and Engineering) Program
Students interested in completing both a BS in physics and an MS in materials science and engineering in five years have the opportunity of doing so. Students finish the coursework for the bachelor's degree in a little over three years. In the fourth year, students combine bachelor's- and master's-level courses. In the fifth year, students are admitted to the Graduate School and focus solely on graduate work.
More details are available from the Materials Science and Engineering Program.
Program Director
Bruce White
Office: SN 2207
Phone: (607) 777-2843
E-mail: bwhite@binghamton.edu
