2023-2024 Course Catalog
We prioritize your educational journey by offering a diverse range of opportunities and specialized tracks tailored to align with your unique interests and career aspirations. Whether you choose to pursue a Bachelor of Science (BS) or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Physics, our program provides a challenging curriculum encompassing core physics courses, specialized tracks, and enriching research experiences. The BS Physics program offers tracks like the Broad Track for graduate studies and the Professional Track for immediate entry into the workforce, while the BA Physics program combines physics with interdisciplinary studies, allowing you to explore diverse fields. Hands-on experiences and research opportunities are emphasized, enabling you to apply theoretical knowledge to practical settings and develop critical thinking abilities. Our program also recognizes the importance of interdisciplinary learning, offering cross-registration options with partnering institutions. With a strong foundation in physics principles, critical thinking skills, and practical experiences, our program aims to empower you to excel in your chosen path within the dynamic field of physics.
Degree Requirements
The following courses are required of all physics degrees:
| MATH 116 Calculus II | 4 credits |
| MATH 215 Calculus III | 4 credits |
| MATH 310 Matrix Algebra | 3 credits |
| MATH 314 Differential Equations | 3 credits |
| MATH 308 Numerical Methods or MATH 301 Probability and Statistics I | 3 credits |
| COSC 170 Intro to Python Programming or COSC 150 Computer Programming: C++ or COSC 160 Scientific Programming: Java | 3 credits |
| CHEM 121/121L General Chemistry I and Lab | 5 credits |
| CHEM 122/122L General Chemistry II and Lab | 5 credits |
| ENGL 302W Science Writing | 3 credits |
| PHYS 105 Career Development | 1 credit |
| MATH 115 Calculus I | 4 credits |
BS Physics
To obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics, students must successfully fulfill the following requirements:
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Completion of a minimum of 50 credits in physics courses, each with a grade of C or higher.
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Successful completion of 38 credits in core physics courses.
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Completion of 12 credits in additional physics courses, specifically tailored to the chosen track.
By adhering to these requirements, students will not only acquire a strong academic background in physics but also achieve track completion, indicating their proficiency in a specific focus area.
| Physics Core | |
| PHYS 211 General Analytical Physics I | 3 credits |
| PHYS 211L General Analytical Physics I Lab | 1 credit |
| PHYS 212 General Analytical Physics II | 3 credits |
| PHYS 212L General Analytical Physics II lab | 1 credit |
| PHYS 302 Optics | 3 credits |
| PHYS 312 Optics Lab | 1 credit |
| PHYS 332 Electronics | 3 credits |
| PHYS 374 Modern Physics | 3 credits |
| PHYS 401 Thermal Physics | 3 credits |
| PHYS 461 Mechanics | 4 credits |
| PHYS 464 Advanced Lab | 2 credits |
| PHYS 470 Electricity and Magnetism |
3 credits |
| PHYS 473 Electrodynamics | 3 credits |
| PHYS 474 Quantum Mechanics | 3 credits |
| PHYS 499W Senior Research | 2 credits |
Broad Track
The Broad Track is highly recommended for candidates who have aspirations to pursue a graduate degree in physics following their undergraduate studies. While not mandatory, the following elements are highly recommended:
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Enrolling in PHYS 407, a dedicated course designed to prepare students for the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). This 1-credit course assists students in honing their test-taking strategies and strengthening their proficiency in physics concepts, thus maximizing their potential for success in future graduate studies.
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Engaging in at least two semesters of physics research: By actively participating in research projects, students gain valuable hands-on experience, develop critical thinking skills, and enhance their understanding of practical applications within the field of physics.
To successfully complete the Broad Track, students must meet the following requirements:
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Successful completion of PHYS 350, a course specifically designed to enhance analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, thus equipping students with the necessary tools for advanced physics study.
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Completion of a minimum of 9 credits in PHYS courses at the 300 level or above.
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| PHYS 350 mathematical Methods in Physics | 3 credits |
| PHYS 300+ | 9 credits |
| Choose from: |
| PHYS 404 Solid State Physics (3 credits) |
| PHYS 405 Gravitational Astrophysics (3 credits) |
| PHYS 475 Advanced Quantum Mechanics (3 credits) |
| PHYS 482W Particle Physics (3 credits) |
| PHYS 485 Relativity (3 credits) |
| PHYS 491 Introductory Materials Science (3 credits) |
| PHYS 502 Advanced Optical Theory and Devices (3 credits) |
| PHYS 508 Computational Physics (3 credits) |
| PHYS 532 Data Acquisition and Control (3 credits) |
Professional Track
Students interested in entering the workforce immediately after graduation may consider pursuing the Professional Track. Completion of three business courses is required to fulfill the Professional Track. A professional internship is recommended. A certificate in entrepreneurship is accessible from the School of Business by completing two additional courses.
To fulfill the requirements of this track, students must successfully complete the following courses:
| PHYS 404 Solid State Physics | 3 credits |
| PHYS 491 Introductory Materials Science | 3 credits |
| PHYS 502 Advanced Optical Theory and Devices | 3 credits |
| PHYS 532 Data Acquisition and Control or PHYS 508 Computational Physics or an approved substitute in applied physics | 3 credits |
| BLAW 251 Business Law | 3 credits |
| MGMT 361 Management and Organizational Behavior | 3 credits |
| ENTR 375 Entrepreneurship | 3 credits |
Astronomy Track
The Astronomy Track is a highly recommended path for candidates who have a keen interest in pursuing a graduate degree in astronomy following their undergraduate studies. This track offers specialized coursework and cross-registration opportunities with the University of Pittsburgh, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the field.
To successfully complete the Astronomy Track, students must fulfill the following requirements:
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- Completion of 12 credits of astronomy major courses through cross-registration at the University of Pittsburgh.
BA Physics
The BA is recommended for students with a broader range of interests, particularly those planning to seek professional degrees in medical school, law or education. The BA degree is offered in combination with a second degree in our double-degree programs. To obtain a Bachelor of Arts degree in Physics, students must fulfill the following requirements:
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Completion of 32 credits in physics courses, with a minimum grade of C in each course.
- Completion of 17 credits in standard-letter-grade physics courses at the 300 level or above.
- Successful completion of the basic physics sequence, which consists of the following courses:
| PHYS 211 General Analytical Physics I | 3 credits |
| PHYS 211L General Analytical Physics I lab | 1 credit |
| PHYS 212 General Analytical Physics II | 3 credits |
| PHYS 212L General Analytical Physics II lab | 1 credit |
| PHYS 302 Optics | 3 credits |
| PHYS 312 Optics Lab | 1 credit |
| PHYS 374 Modern Physics | 3 credits |
| PHYS 300+ standard-grade only | 17 credits |
Physics Teacher programs
There are three options for candidates planning to pursue a career as a high-school physics teacher:
- BSEd Secondary Science - Physics. Students in the School of Education can complete a major in physics through this program. Recommended for candidates who prefer a fast track to physics teaching certification.
- BSEd Secondary Science/BA physics. Students complete the requirements of both degrees in 9 semesters with an accelerated option for qualified candidates to graduate in 8 semesters. Recommended for candidates who favor the strongest physics credentials.
- BA Physics/MAT Secondary Education. An accelerated program in the 4+1 model leading to a bachelor's degree in physics and a master's degree in education. Recommended for candidates who prioritize building physics content in advance of learning pedagogy.
Requirements for the minor in physics
A minor in physics is offered to students completing the freshman physics sequence 211, 211L, 212, 212L, and 12 additional credits in standard-letter-grade physics courses numbered 300 or above, all with a grade of C or better. Individual course prerequisites must be satisfied.
| PHYS 211 General Analytical Physics I | 3 credits |
| PHYS 211L General Analytical Physics I lab | 1 credit |
| PHYS 212 General Analytical Physics II | 3 credits |
| PHYS 212L General Analytical Physics II lab | 1 credit |
| PHYS 300+ standard-grade only | 12 credits |
| Total for the minor in physics | 20 credits |