Physics

The Physics major is designed to give the student a broad and thorough understanding of the fundamentals of physics. Therefore, the emphasis is on this general understanding rather than on specialized skills, although some specialized courses are among the options open to the student. Those considering a physics major are urged to consult a departmental adviser early, in order to discuss the content of the major and also the opportunities after graduation. Recent graduates have entered graduate work in a number of scientific fields, and others have gone on to jobs in academic, industrial, and government laboratories.

Declaring the Major

Students may declare the physics major once they have completed all prerequisite courses for the major—or are currently enrolled in their final prerequisite courses—with a minimum 2.0 grade-point average (GPA) in the prerequisites (including any approved equivalents). For further information regarding the prerequisites, please see the Major Requirements tab on this page.

The department will consider applications to declare a physics major throughout the academic year. Students—both continuing and transfer students who were not directly admitted to the physics major—must submit a Physics Major Declaration Request Form. Through this form, students will provide a tentative schedule of their upper-division courses and, if applicable, documentation of any approved outside math or physics courses for equivalency.

Honors Program

Students with an overall grade point average (GPA) of 3.3 or higher in all courses in the major, upper division courses in the major, and all University courses may be admitted to the honors program. A major advisor should be consulted before the student's last year of residence. This program requires completion of the major, at least one semester of PHYSICS H190, and a senior thesis, PHYSICS H195A and PHYSICS H195B.

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