Physics, BA or BS

Print Degree Planner (opens a new window) |

Note: For 2014-15, Physics will only accept new majors who have already completed Calculus (MTH 251-252), General Chemistry (CH 201-206), and General Physics (either PH 201-203 or PH 221-223 combined with PH 224-226). All physics majors will need to complete their required physics coursework no later than the end of spring 2016. Physics will be able to accept new minors who are able to complete all the required coursework no later than the end of spring 2016.

Requirements for the Physics Major

Candidates for a bachelor’s degree in physics must:

1.

Fulfill baccalaureate degree requirements as stated in General Degree Requirements

2.

Complete the core requirements for the physics major.

3.

Complete the requirements for one of the following options: the Standard Option, the Applied Physics Option, the Materials Science Option, the Engineering Physics Option, or the Physics-Engineering Dual Degree Option.

4.

Complete all of the upper division coursework for the major with a GPA of 2.5 or greater.

5.

Complete the applicable capstone requirements.

Physics Major Core Requirements

(60 credits)

The following courses are required of all physics options:

CH 201 - General Chemistry 3 credits
CH 202 - General Chemistry 3 credits
CH 203 - General Chemistry 3 credits
CH 204 - General Chemistry Laboratory 2 credits
CH 205 - General Chemistry Laboratory 2 credits
CH 206 - General Chemistry Laboratory 2 credits
MTH 251 - Calculus I 4 credits
MTH 252 - Calculus II 4 credits
MTH 321 - Differential Equations 4 credits
PH 221 - General Physics with Calculus I 4 credits
PH 222 - General Physics with Calculus II 4 credits
PH 223 - General Physics with Calculus III 4 credits
or
PH 201 - General Physics I 3 credits
PH 202 - General Physics II 3 credits
PH 203 - General Physics III 3 credits
PH 220 - Problem Solving in the Sciences 3 credits *
PH 224 - General Physics Laboratory I 2 credits
PH 225 - General Physics Laboratory II 2 credits
PH 226 - General Physics Laboratory III 2 credits
PH 331 - Methods of Research in Physics I 1 credit
PH 332 - Methods of Research in Physics II 1 credit
PH 341 - Introduction to Relativity and Quantum Physics 3 credits
PH 344 - Modern Physics Laboratory 2 credits
PH 371 - Mathematical Methods for the Physical Sciences 4 credits
PH 380 - Computer Methods 3 credits
or
ENGR 373 - Computational Methods in Engineering 3 credits
PH 434 - Advanced Physics Laboratory (Various Topics) 1 to 2 credits
* PH 220-223 is not an option for Pre-Engineering Students

Options

Capstone Experience

The departmental capstone requirement is the culmination of the undergraduate educational experience. In the junior year, students must register for PH 331 in winter and PH 332 in spring; these courses will familiarize students with the research of three different faculty members. During the second half of the spring quarter, students submit a capstone proposal for departmental approval after consulting with an appropriate faculty member who has agreed to assume supervisory responsibility. During the senior year, students earn 3–6 credits for the capstone project through approved activities. Possible capstone experiences include an approved independent research project, practicum project, cooperative education experience, or summer internship program. Upon completion, the project should be described and analyzed through a written and oral report to the department and an approved group of peers.