Mar 29, 2024  
Catalogue 2013-2014 
    
Catalogue 2013-2014 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Physics Major


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Requirements


Requirements for the major: 9 units above the introductory level, including the six core courses PHYS 200 , PHYS 201 , PHYS 210 , PHYS 240 , PHYS 245  and  PHYS 320  and 3 additional 300-level units, at least 2 of which must be chosen from PHYS 310 , PHYS 341 , and PHYS 375 . The third unit can be any 300-level course, including the three listed above that has a sufficient emphasis on a physics related topic, as approved by the department. Physics/Astronomy double majors may count both Astronomy ASTR 320  and ASTR 340  towards these 3 additional 300-level units, and must choose the third unit from PHYS 310 , PHYS 341 , and PHYS 375 . In addition to these nine units, students must complete MATH 220 , MATH 221 . Additional recommended Mathematics courses: MATH 228 , MATH 241 , and MATH 324 . Physics PHYS 200 , PHYS 201  and PHYS 210  should be taken prior to the beginning of the junior year. PHYS 240  and PHYS 320  should be taken prior to the beginning of the senior year.

After the declaration of a physics major, no physics courses or courses counted towards the major may be elected NRO. Prospective majors should consult the department as soon as possible and are strongly advised to elect physics and mathematics as freshmen. Those majors planning on graduate work in physics are strongly advised to complete PHYS 310  and additional PHYS 375  courses and are encouraged to consult with the department concerning other courses in the natural sciences which may supplement the physics major.

Physics Teaching Certification:


Physics majors who wish to obtain Secondary Certification in physics must complete, in conjunction with the program of study outlined by the education department, three additional units beyond the 6 core units. These 3 units must include one chosen from PHYS 310 , PHYS 341 , and PHYS 375 , one as a thesis or independent project (PHYS 300  or PHYS 301 ) and 1/2 unit each of lab development (PHYS 298 ) and lab apprenticeship (PHYS 298 ). Consult Ms. Schwarz.

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