COURSE CURRICULUM

The physics degree requires a minimum of 43 to 47 credits, including 33 to 37 upper-division credits, along with 20 supporting credits. Students start with foundational courses like Physics for Scientists and Engineers I and II with labs, though General Physics I and II are acceptable alternatives. Core courses include a Pre-Capstone Seminar, Modern Physics, Physical Modeling with Matlab, and a Capstone Senior Thesis, providing a comprehensive theoretical and practical physics education. Students must also select one advanced physics course such as Applied Electronics and Lab, Advanced Experimental Physics, or Geometric and Physical Optics to deepen their expertise.To gain practical experience, students can choose from internship options or directed research projects, which allow for hands-on learning and application of physics concepts. The curriculum requires 20 credits of upper-division physics electives, emphasizing advanced study, and only courses numbered 200 or above count toward the major’s credit requirements.Supporting courses are critical to building the mathematical and computational foundation needed for physics. Calculus I, II, III, and Differential Equations are mandatory, ensuring strong mathematical skills. Students must also take a computer programming course, either Concepts of Programming or Introduction to Computer Programming, to enhance their computational abilities. Recommended courses include General Chemistry with labs and advanced mathematics courses such as Linear Algebra, Real Analysis, and Complex Variables, which provide additional analytical tools essential for physics.Overall, the program prepares students for scientific inquiry by combining rigorous theoretical study with practical laboratory and research experiences. This prepares graduates for careers in physics, engineering, or graduate study by equipping them with a solid foundation in physics principles, mathematical skills, and computational techniques, allowing them to tackle complex scientific problems effectively.