Physics Major

Core Courses: The following courses constitute the core of a physics (or related) degree, and are required for all students majoring in physics:

• PHY 101 - Introduction to the Physics Major (1 Cr.)
• PHY 125 - General Physics I (4 Cr.)
• PHY 126 - General Physics II (4 Cr.)
• PHY 220 - Modern Physics (4 Cr.)
• PHY 230 - Intermediate Physics Laboratory (2 Cr.)
• PHY 281 - Mathematical Methods for Mechanics (4 Cr.)
• PHY 310 - Electronics/Instrumentation (4 Cr.)

In addition to the core courses, at least 12 credits from the following list are required:

• PHY 300 - Statistical Physics and Thermodynamics (4 Cr.)
• PHY 301 - Intermediate Electromagnetic Theory (4 Cr.)
• PHY 330 - Special Topics in Contemporary Physics (2-4 Cr.)
• PHY 350 - Quantum Mechanics (4 Cr.)

Students intending to pursue graduate study in physics are strongly advised to take PHY 300, 301, and 350. Depending on individual interest and career plans, students may also elect to take courses from the following list:

• PHY 110 - Introduction to Astronomy (4 Cr.)
• PHY 250 - Energy, Physics, and the Environment (4 Cr.)
• CS 119 - Foundations of Computer Science (4 Cr.)
• MA 231 - Differential Equations with Applications (4 Cr.)
• MA 416 - Scientific Computation (4 Cr.)

Students interested in further study of specialized upper-level topics are encouraged to consult the course listings of other area universities, in consultation with physics faculty members.

The Degree with Honors in Physics

Physics majors are encouraged to strive for Honors in the major at graduation. Honors in the major will be awarded on the basis of outstanding course work and additional independent research achievements. Students who wish to be considered for Honors in Physics should plan their schedule to include independent research as described in the guidelines below.

Students must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.50 in the major (as computed from all courses taken within the physics program), and a high level of achievement in either two semesters of independent research work or one summer independent research work plus one semester of independent research work under the supervision of a physics faculty member. Results of independent work should be presented either at an open seminar attended by students and faculty, or in a Senior Thesis evaluated by physics faculty. Final selection requires the approval of the majority of the physics faculty.