Physics

Satinder Sidhu, Chair
Dunning Hall 204, ext. 7255

Because of the compactness and flexibility of the physics program, students are encouraged to minor in other areas. Particularly well-prepared students can complete the requirements of the major in three years. Physics majors intending to become high school teachers should inform the Education Department as early in their college careers as possible to assure proper scheduling.

Freshman-Sophomore Courses

Required: PHY 111, 112; MAT 201, 202

Recommended: CHE 111, 112.

Major Requirements and Recommendations

Required: PHY 111, 112; six courses at or above the 200 level, (excluding PHY 395 Summer Research); and either one independent studies course from PHY 497, 498 or one upper division course from another department (with the permission of the adviser). The first option is recommended for students planning to pursue graduate studies in the physical sciences. The second option is recommended for students planning to seek work in industry immediately after graduation or to pursue a professional career. In addition, the student must take CHE 111, 112, and MAT 201, 202, 203, 345. In their junior and senior years, physics majors are further required to participate in a weekly seminar (PHY 399).

Recommended: Additional courses in mathematics beyond the required minimum.

Minor Requirements: The minor in physics requires six semester courses in physics—PHY 111, 112, 204, and two additional courses at or above the 200 level, excluding PHY 395.

Senior Capstone Experience: The Senior Capstone Experience is required of all majors in physics. It consists of an experimental, theoretical, or computational investigation of a current topic in physics under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Results of these investigations will be presented in two sessions of the weekly Physics Seminar, and may also result in conference posters or publication in professional journals. Academic credit equivalent to one semester course (four credits) is granted upon successful completion of the Senior Capstone Experience, and a grade of Honors, Pass, or Fail will be recorded on the student's transcript, along with the title of the investigation.