May 08, 2024  
2023-2024 University Catalog 
  
2023-2024 University Catalog

Physics, B.S.


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Student Learning Outcomes

 Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) for BS Physics

1

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of fundamental principles of physics including classical and quantum mechanics, electricity and magnetism, and thermodynamics.

2

Demonstrate the ability to apply fundamental principles of physics in a variety of advanced topics such as condensed matter, materials science, signals analysis, optics, and computational physics.

3

Demonstrate an ability to work effectively in a research environment, including the use of instrumentation and computer, experimental design, and analysis of results.

4

Develop problem-solving skills using mathematical and computational tools as applied to the solution of physical problems.

5

Effectively communicate physics in both written and oral form.

General Education Requirements


Mathematics


Science


Humanities


  • Humanities Electives Credits: 6 2
  • Literature Credits: 3 2

Social Sciences


  • Social Sciences Electives Credits: 6 2

Arts


  • Arts Elective Credits: 3 2

Total Credit Hours: 39


Other Requirements


Total Credit Hours: 51


4

Total Credit Hours: 30


Total Credit Hours Required: 120


  1. “C” or better required.
  2. Check General Education Courses to confirm courses fulfilling this requirement.
  3. 6 credits of Math satisfy the general education requirements.
  4. Includes 2 credits of Math listed in general education requirements section.
  5. PHYS 1031 , PHYS 1032 , PHYS 1033 , and PHYS 1034  may be substituted with consent of the department.
  6. Research may be any combination of PHYS 3094 , PHYS 2191 , PHYS 3191 , or PHYS 4191  to a total three credit hours.

Additional Requirement


Minimum grade of C in all science courses (BIOS, CHEM, CSCI, EES, MATH, PHYS, PSYC)

Four Year Plan of Study


First Year of Enrollment


First Term


  1. Required for all first-time full-time students.
Total Credit Hours: 15

Total Credit Hours: 15

Second Year of Enrollment


Total Credit Hours: 14

Second Term


Total Credit Hours: 15

Third Year of Enrollment


First Term


Total Credit Hours: 15

Second Term


Total Credit Hours: 15

Fourth Year of Enrollment


First Term


Total Credit Hours: 15

Second Term


  • Approved Science/Engineering Elective Credits: 3
  • Approved Science/Engineering Elective Credits: 3
  • - Credits: 1
  • General Electives Credits: 9
Total Credit Hours: 16

Total Credit Hours Required: 120


Physics as a Career


Students wishing to pursue graduate school in physics should take additional physics courses including

Combining Physics with a Second Discipline


As a foundational science, physics combines well with many other subjects. The curriculum has the flexibility to allow a Minor in disciplines such as Education, Philosophy, Music, Math, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science and other areas. Students may also choose to pursue a foundation in other areas that do not offer minors. Examples are: Pre-Med: add 5 hrs of Biology, 8 hours of organic Chemistry, 3 hours of Biochemistry, and 3 hours of Statistics to meet minimum med school requirements (see pre-med section of Biology for details). Other possibilities include Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Earth and Environmental Science (Geophysics), and other fields tailored to the student’s interests.

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