Physics Major

Major Requirements

A major in Physics requires a minimum of 13 courses plus a senior thesis.

PHYS 033L KS , PHYS 034L KS ; PHYS 035 KS , PHYS 100 KS , PHYS 101 KS , PHYS 102 KS , PHYS 106L KS (or another 100-level laboratory course such as PHYS174 PO or equivalent), PHYS 108 KS (or a computer science course chosen in consultation with a physics faculty advisor) PHYS 114 KS , PHYS 115 KS
A one- or two-semester thesis in Science (PHYS 191 KS or PHYS 188L KS and PHYS 190L KS or PHYS189L KS and PHYS190L KS)
MATH 031 PZ , MATH 032 PZ or MATH 102 PZ -Differential Equations/Modeling (Are prerequisites for several advanced physics courses).

Recommended: Although students need only take Differential Equations or Linear Algebra for the major, taking both courses is useful.

NOTE: Physics majors normally complete PHYS 033L KS , PHYS 034L KS , in their first year and PHYS 035 KS in fall of sophomore year. The calculus sequence (through Math 32) is normally completed in fall of sophomore year or earlier. Students can then take (in any order) PHYS 100 KS , PHYS 102 KS , PHYS 115 KS , PHYS 108 KS or equivalent, differential equations and/or linear algebra. PHYS 101 KS andPHYS 114 KS should only be taken after completing differential equations and linear algebra. Majors interested in potentially pursuing experimental work are encouraged to take an additional advanced physics laboratory course.

Physics Courses

Physics