Program Description

The Department of Physics offers a rich and comprehensive program of study leading to the B.S. degree in Physics. This program is designed to prepare students not only for advanced graduate studies in physics, but also for employment upon graduation in physics and other disciplines related to science and technology.

Basic courses give the student a solid foundation in the concepts of modern physics, and assist the students in developing their analytical reasoning and problem-solving skills. Laboratory courses complement this experience with an opportunity to develop experimental skills and a working knowledge of advanced technology. Students are strongly encouraged to further develop all these skills by participating in advanced experimental, analytical, or computational research under the supervision of faculty mentors.

Information for First Year Majors and Non-Majors

Physics, chemistry, mathematics, environmental and geological sciences, engineering, and computer science majors planning on taking physics in the freshman year should enroll in Introductory Physics I - PHYS2200 and the associated lab - PHYS2050. Premedical students and biology majors should enroll in the course Introductory Physics I - PHYS2100, recitation section - PHYS2110 and the associated lab - PHYS2050. The Calculus I course specially designed for physics, mathematics, chemistry, geology, and geophysics majors is Calculus I - MATH1102. Physics majors entering with Mathematics AP placement are advised to start at the MATH1103 level or above, as appropriate.

Course Offerings

Courses numbered below 2000 are introductory courses directed towards non-science majors. These courses have no prerequisites and need no mathematics beyond ordinary college entrance requirements. Introductory physics courses may be used to fulfill the Science Core requirement. PHYS2200-2201 Introductory Physics I, II (Calculus) or PHYS2100-2101 Introduction to Physics I, II (Calculus) and PHYS2050-2051 Introductory Physics Laboratory I and II are designed for science majors. Physics majors are required to take the PHYS2200-2201 sequence, and we strongly urge that it be taken during freshman year. For other science majors, consult your major description for further details on the physics requirement. Courses numbered above 3000 are advanced offerings primarily for physics majors.