Majors, Minors & Requirements

All prospective physics majors should consult with the Department Chairperson as early as possible. As noted, prospective physics majors should take in their first year Physics 111-112 and associated laboratory. Physics 101, 105, and 107 may not be used for credit toward a major or minor in physics, but they may be used for general degree credits.

REQUIREMENTS FOR A MAJOR IN PHYSICS LEADING TO THE B.S. DEGREE

A total of fifty-five (55) credits as follows:

  1. Physics 111-112, 111L-112L.
  2. Physics 211, 211L.
  3. Physics 250.
  4. Physics 301, 305, 401, and 406.
  5. Physics 486.
  6. At least one additional 4-credit Physics course at the 300-level or above.
  7. Mathematics 121, 122, 223, and 251 or appropriate substitutes as approved by the Physics Department.

Students majoring in physics and planning to pursue graduate studies in physics or in a closely related field are strongly encouraged to take the following, additional courses: Physics 302, 304, 306, and 325; Mathematics 261.

REQUIREMENTS FOR A MINOR IN PHYSICS

A total of twenty-four (24) credits as follows:

  1. Physics 111-112, 111L-112L.
  2. Physics 211. (Note: Physics 211L is not required.)
  3. At least one additional 4-credit Physics course at the 200-level or above.
  4. Mathematics 121,122. Mathematics 223 is recommended, but not required.

HONORS IN PHYSICS

  1. Courses required: those listed for the B.S. degree with a major in physics, plus Physics 495-496, Honors Tutorial.
  2. A research project in physics, usually involving a topic related to Physics Faculty research. The Honors Project must be approved by the Department of Physics, must follow the Department’s schedule for Honors work, and a creditable thesis must be presented to the Department at the end of the academic year.