The program in physics is designed to enable a major to graduate with a sound and thorough preparation in basic physics. The student is prepared either for subsequent graduate study or for employment in physics, engineering, or allied fields at a level commensurate with a good undergraduate physics background. Individual study and participation in ongoing research within the department are encouraged for those interested and qualified. Research opportunities also exist in undergraduate research programs organized or sponsored by the American Institute of Physics and the National Science Foundation on a competitive basis.
The physics major may be combined with undergraduate programs or selected coursework in the areas of premedicine, prebusiness, and prelaw; this provides excellent credentials and background for entrance into professional programs in these fields. A modified physics program is also available to students in the field of education, which leads to certification for high school teaching in the area of physical science.
The requirements for the major include 39 credits in physics with a minimum grade-point average of 2.5. The following courses are required for the major:
21:750:205,206 Introductory Physics Laboratory (1,1)
21:750:213,214 University Physics* (4,4) [21:750:203,204 General Physics I,II (4,4) may be substituted under special circumstances]
21:750:315 Introductory Thermodynamics (3)
21:750:316 Introduction to Modern Physics (3)
21:750:333 Applications of Mathematics to Physics (3)
21:750:361,362 Mechanics I,II (3,3)
21:750:385,386 Electromagnetic Fields and Waves I,II (3,3)
21:750:403 Introduction to Atomic and Nuclear Physics (3)
21:750:404 Quantum Mechanics (3)
21:750:407, 408 Advanced Physics Laboratory I, II (1,1)
The major also requires the following courses in mathematics:
21:640:135, 136 Calculus I, II (4,4)
21:640:314 Elementary Differential Equations (3)
In addition, two courses from the following list are required:
21:640:251 Linear Algebra (or Math 337**) (3)
21:640:410 Vector Analysis (or Math 335**) (3)
21:640:473 Numerical Analysis (3)
21:640:475,476 Applied Mathematics I,II (3,3)
21:750:461 Computational Methods in Applied Physics (3)
21:750:462 Mathematical Methods of Theoretical Physics (3)
Math 331 Introduction to Partial Differential Equations**
Courses recommended, but not required, include:
21:160:115,116 General Chemistry (4,4)
21:640:403 Introductory Theory of Functions of a Complex Variable (3)
21:750:406 Introductory Solid-State Physics (3)
21:750:410 Physical Electronics (2)
21:750:411 Physical Optics (3)
21:750:491,492 Physics Seminar (1,1)
EE 251 Digital Design**
