Physics Major (B.A.)

This program provides an opportunity for a broad and liberal education, which in some cases may be sufficient for graduate work. This program can also be excellent preparation for middle and high school physics teachers, pre-med and pre-law students, and those wishing to pursue a technical career in industry. Because there are fewer required courses than for a B.S., you have time to pursue other academic interests. A judicious choice of electives may also prepare students for interdisciplinary programs that require proficiency in a specialized area of physics.

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 Note that no physics course can satisfy these requirement for a physics major. The rationale behind this is that a course in physics does not broaden the education of a physics major.

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 A capstone experience is required of all physics majors during their senior year. The Physics Department encourages students to write a senior thesis (PHYS 799 Thesis) for their capstone experience. Other options include independent study research projects (PHYS 795 Independent Study or INCO 590 Student Research Experience) or a special project as part of senior lab (PHYS 705 Experimental Physics II). All capstone experiences must be approved by the undergraduate committee during the student's penultimate semester.

Suggested Curriculum for B.A. in Physics

In the following table, "other required courses" include Discovery courses, writing-intensive courses, language courses required for the B.A., and free-choice electives.

• Students will master the fundamentals of mechanics, electricity and magnetism, quantum mechanics, and thermodynamics.
• Students will have a solid understanding of calculus and differential equations and be able to use mathematics to solve physics problems.
• Students will be proficient at taking measurements in a physics lab and analyzing measurements to draw valid conclusions.
• Students will be able to integrate competently the knowledge and skills acquired in the major and have adequate preparation to succeed in post-undergraduate studies or a professional career.
• Students develop and execute plans for post-graduation to establish their careers. Student will understand the variety of career paths and opportunities that are open to students who have majored in physics.
• Students will be able to present scientific ideas effectively in both written and oral form.