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Mission Statement

Physics is concerned with the basic principles of the universe and is the foundation upon which the other physical sciences—astronomy, chemistry and geology—are based. At the most fundamental level, the study of physics is subdivided into several basic areas of interest, including: mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, optics, quantum effects, elementary particles and relativity.

The study of physics offers a great variety of opportunities. A good foundation in physics can prepare a student for specialization in some area of research, or it can provide an excellent background for entering such varied fields as engineering, computer science, mathematics, communications, meteorology, oceanography, law, medicine and teaching.

The emphasis of the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ University physics program is on quality instruction at the undergraduate level. Undergraduate students are strongly encouraged to participate in research activities directed by faculty members.
The program of study in physics is one of the most flexible in the University. It offers many options and electives that make it possible to get a good foundation in physics as well as the necessary background to go into many other fields. The undergraduate degree offered is the Bachelor of Science (B.S.).

Bachelor of Science in Physics 

This degree plan places a strong emphasis on physics and mathematics. It can be tailored to meet the needs of students preparing for graduate school or employment in a variety of fields. Many students with B.S. degrees in physics from ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ University have been highly successful graduate students in physics at some of the best universities in the U.S. Others have succeeded as engineers, mathematicians, physicians, medical researchers, lawyers, teachers, etc. Faculty advisors help plan programs to satisfy the needs of individual students.

The degree of Bachelor of Science in Physics will be awarded upon completion of the following requirements:

  1. A. General Requirements:
    See core curriculum, General Education Requirements – Bachelor Degrees, and the Minimum Standards for Undergraduate Majors in the College of Arts and Sciences.?
  2. B. Science and Mathematics:
    CHEM 1411, 1412
    MATH 2413, 2414, 2415, 3401
  3. C. Physics Core:
    (Most students will take PHYS 1370, Mathematical Methods in Physics, as a preparation for PHYS 2425 and 2426)
    PHYS 2425, 2426 Introductory General Physics
    PHYS 3430 Analytical Mechanics
    PHYS 3350 Waves and Modern Physics
    PHYS 3380 Electricity and Magnetism
    PHYS 4320 Quantum Mechanics or PHYS 3390 Statistical Physics
  4. D. Concentration Area
    A concentration in either chemistry, engineering or mathematics to include:
    1. Chemistry: CHEM 1411, CHEM 1412, CHEM 3401, and CHEM 4311.
    2. Engineering: ENGR 2301, ENGR 2302, ENGR 2311, and ENGR 2374 (replaces CHEM 1412).
    3. Mathematics: MATH 2318, MATH 2413, MATH 2414, MATH 2415, MATH 3380, and MATH 3401.
  5. E. Electives:
    Additional physics electives to attain at least 32 semester hours of physics
    Additional general electives to attain a total of 120 semester hours (not including the required semester of PEGA).

Suggested Program of Study
Bachelor of Science in Physics – Total Min. Hours: 121

Physics as a Second Major

Physics may be selected as a second major for students wishing to broaden their education. The most popular options are to combine Physics with Engineering or Chemistry. Combinations are also available with Computer Science and Mathematics. A student may choose one degree with a double major or two separate degrees. While a second degree usually requires an additional semester of course work, the double major can be accomplished very efficiently. A Physics advisor can give you specific details on your choice of the field combinations.

Minor in Physics

A physics minor consists of (PHYS 1401 and PHYS 1402) or (PHYS 2425 and PHYS 2426), PHYS 3350, and nine additional hours of PHYS 3000/4000 level courses to total 20 credits with no grade less than “C”.