The Physics Honors Program
The Department of Physics offers an Honors Program for physics majors who demonstrate excellence in the major. Eligibility for the Honors Program includes prior completion of all required lower-division physics courses, nine upper-division physics courses, and a GPA of at least 3.50 in the physics major.
The Honors Program consists of a minimum of eight units of Honors Thesis Research (Physics 199H), an Honors Thesis, and the presentation of the research to faculty and peers at UC San Diego's Undergraduate Research Conference or an Undergraduate Seminar.
Students who successfully complete the Honors Program and who have maintained a GPA of at least a 3.50 in the physics major will have one of the following designations on their diploma, based on an average of their physics major GPA and the grade for their research project:
3.50 – 3.67 "with Distinction"
3.68 – 3.85 "with High Distinction"
3.86 – 4.00 "with Highest Distinction"
Students apply to the Physics Honors Program through TEA, and must upload:
- a 1-2 page project abstract
- a 1-page bibliography, and
- the most recent copy of their degree audit.
Applications must be submitted no later than Friday of week 1 in the term the student wants to enroll (see instructions here). Late applications will not be accepted.
Honors Program FAQs
Q: Can I apply before my senior year?
A: Yes. You may apply as soon as you meet the eligibility requirements. ASTR 123 (formerly PHYS 163) and ASTR 150 (formerly PHYS 164) count toward the required nine upper-division Physics courses.
Q: Who can supervise my Honors research?
A: Your Honors faculty supervisor must be a Physics Department professor. Research may be conducted outside the department if a Physics professor serves as your Honors supervisor.
Q: How does PHYS 199H apply to my major and GPA?
A: One 4-unit PHYS 199H satisfies the Physics major's upper-division restricted elective requirement in place of PHYS 199. Although PHYS 199H is graded P/NP, the department assigns an equivalent letter grade for one 4-unit PHYS 199H when determining departmental distinction.
Q: How do I complete the thesis and presentation requirements?
A: Submit your thesis to your faculty advisor at the end of your final PHYS 199H quarter in the format they require. Your advisor will also coordinate your required research presentation at an Undergraduate Seminar, the Undergraduate Research Conference, or another approved venue.
Q: What if I don't complete the Honors Program?
A: You will not receive departmental distinction, but eligible PHYS 199/199H units may still apply toward your Physics major. Simply complete your current PHYS 199H enrollment and do not enroll in additional PHYS 199H quarters.