Physics Major (B.S.)

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A minor is required.

Students wishing to major in Physics may declare their intent at any time. Upon completion of the analytical physics sequence (PHYS 211, PHYS 211L, PHYS 212, and PHYS 212L) with grades of “C” or better, students in good academic standing can electronically request designation as Physics Majors.

Learning Outcomes

Foundation Courses (26 cr)

CHEM 111 - General Chemistry I Lecture (GE4) Credits: 4
CHEM 111L - General Chemistry I Lab (GE4) Credits: 1
CHEM 112 - General Chemistry II Lecture Credits: 4
CHEM 112L - General Chemistry II Lab Credits: 1
MATH 161 - Calculus I (GE3) Credits: 4
MATH 162 - Calculus II Credits: 4
MATH 261 - Calculus III Credits: 4
MATH 262 - Differential Equations Credits: 4

Major Required Courses (43 cr)

PHYS 211 - Analytical Physics I (GE4) Credits: 4
PHYS 211L - Introductory Physics I Lab (GE4) Credits: 1
PHYS 212 - Analytical Physics II Credits: 4
PHYS 212L - Introductory Physics II Lab Credits: 1
PHYS 301 - Theoretical Mechanics Credits: 4
PHYS 302 - Electricity & Magnetism Credits: 3
PHYS 309 - Introduction to Modern Physics Credits: 4
PHYS 312 - Thermodynamics Credits: 3
PHYS 313 - Mathematical Methods Credits: 3
PHYS 320 - Junior Laboratory Credits: 2
PHYS 332 - Modern Optics & Holography Credits: 3
PHYS 400 - Senior Laboratory Credits: 2
PHYS 402 - Physical Optics Credits: 3
PHYS 403 - Intro to Quantum Mechanics Credits: 3
PHYS 497 - Senior Research Credits: 1-4

Recommended Electives

PHYS 404 - Solid State Physics Credits: 3