Department of Physics

Degree Programs and Courses

The Physics Department offers majors in Physics and Applied Physics leading to the Bachelor of Science degree, minors in Physics and in Astronomy (in cooperation with Geological Sciences), and a B.A. major (through the College of Liberal Arts). The Department contributes to a Teaching Physical Science major and minor (through the College of Education and Human Service Professions). There is also a certification program for teaching high school physics.

We also provide key foundational courses to students in science and engineering programs in the Swenson College of Science and Engineering, as well as liberal education courses largely for students outside SCSE.

Program details

• BS in Physics.
  The B.S. physics major is primarily for students planning to work toward an advanced degree in physics. Typical four-year program. Please note that CS 1511, Computer Science I, is now the preferred choice in fulfilling the Computer Science programming requirement.
• BS in Applied Physics.
  The applied physics major prepares students to work in industry and provides flexibility to incorporate approved engineering courses into a degree program. Typical four-year program. Please note that CS 1511, Computer Science I, is now the preferred choice in fulfilling the Computer Science programming requirement.
• BA in Physics.
  The B.A. physics major is for students who wish to complete a liberal arts degree.
• Physics minor.
• Astronomy minor (in conjunction with Geological Sciences).
• Physics MS graduate program.
• Teaching Physics, 9-12:
  Students seeking a B.A. or B.S. in physics may enroll concurrently in secondary education licensure requirements in the Department of Education.
  • File a post-baccalaureate contract application for Physics 9-12 licensure.
  • Apply for admission to the Secondary Teacher Education Program.
  • For those completing the B.A. in physics and seeking licensure, include Phys 3061 as an elective.
• Physics courses offered.
• Courseware server for course materials.
• Computer technology recommendations for incoming students.
• Instructional facilities.
• Undergraduate honors program.
• Awards to undergraduates for academic and research excellence.

The department is dedicated to high standards, hard work, and a quality product. The successful careers of our graduates are evidence that our physics majors get a good education. We offer high-quality courses and good opportunities for practical experience in research. Junior and Senior students become increasingly interested in their work and begin to develop a mature professional attitude.

Many undergraduates participate in research. The department considers research to be important, not just for the work produced but also in the development of faculty expertise that makes a difference in teaching and in the opportunities for education for the undergraduate and graduate students who participate.

The research and professional spirit associated with the graduate program are important for the quality of the undergraduate program. Undergraduates also benefit from the greater depth of courses extending into the graduate and research areas, and from the better use of faculty time resulting from employment of graduate teaching assistants.