Physics

Required for the Physics Major

Physics 220, 225, 230, 310, 330, and three additional six-unit courses chosen from Physics 320 and above, excluding independent studies and capstone courses. Physics majors without advanced placement should start with Physics 150 and 160. Students who do not intend to pursue graduate study in physics may petition the department to substitute appropriate upper-level offerings in other departments for up to two of the required physics electives. The following program is typical:

• Freshman: Physics 150, 160; Mathematics 140, 150, 160
• Sophomore: Physics 220, 225, 230; Mathematics 210
• Junior: Physics 310, 330; physics electives
• Senior: Physics 599 or 699, physics electives

Additional courses in mathematics, chemistry, and computer science are often elected. The prospective major should consult early and regularly with the faculty in the department.

In the 1996-97 academic year the department launched a new effort called the Senior Capstone Experience program, which is designed to encourage seniors to engage in ambitious undertakings custom-tailored to their interests, needs, and career plans. All senior majors are encouraged to enroll in one term — normally the fall or winter term — of capstone endeavor by electing Physics 599 or 699: Independent Study in Physics. A detailed proposal must be submitted to the department well before the project is to be undertaken — e.g., in the spring term of the junior year. The proposal should

1. describe the proposed activity in detail;
2. explain why it is to be undertaken, including the role it plays in the student's overall plans;
3. identify a beginning set of resource materials;
4. lay out a schedule and specific objectives to be completed by the end of the first term of the activity. The extent to which stated objectives are met in the first term will be an important factor bearing on whether the study will continue into subsequent terms.

These plans are to be worked out in consultation with the intended faculty advisor, who must endorse them.

Required for the Interdisciplinary Major in the Natural Sciences in Physics and a Secondary Discipline

1. Physics 150 and 160
2. Any two of
   1. Biology 110 and 120 or Biology 110 and 140
   2. Chemistry 115 and 116 or Chemistry 119 or equivalent
   3. Geology 110 (any section) and Geology 210 chosen to include the secondary discipline.
3. At least ten six-unit courses in the sciences (biology, chemistry, geology, physics) numbered 200 or above, with at least five in physics and at least three in the secondary discipline. The five courses in physics must include Physics 225, 230, 310, and 330.

Required for the Physics Minor

1. Physics 150 and 160
2. Physics 225
3. Three additional six-unit courses in physics, at least two of which must be chosen from physics courses numbered 220 and above, excluding independent studies and capstone courses, and no more than one of which can be chosen from Physics 103-115 and Physics 205.
4. C average in the minor

A student pursuing a minor in physics must consult with a member of the department early and often to plan and monitor progress in the minor.

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