Mar 29, 2024  
2013-2014 Academic Catalog 
    
2013-2014 Academic Catalog THIS IS AN ARCHIVED CATALOG. LINKS MAY NO LONGER BE ACTIVE AND CONTENT MAY BE OUT OF DATE!

Physics Major


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Please refer to the Science  section of this catalog.

The physics major places a strong emphasis on computational and numerical techniques while still retaining the core material common to all physics majors. Many problems which are not readily solvable using traditional methods will be incorporated into the program, and solutions will involve numerical integration, computer modeling, and other numerical techniques introduced in the classroom and laboratory.

Learning Outcomes of the Program in Physics

When confronted with an unfamiliar physical or dynamical system or situation, students should be able to:

  1. Develop a conceptual framework for understanding the system by identifying the key physical principles, relationships, and constraints underlying the system.
  2. Translate that conceptual framework into an appropriate mathematical format/model.
  3. (a) If the mathematical model/equations are analytically tractable, carry out the analysis of the problem to completion (by demonstrating knowledge of a proficiency with the standard mathematical tools of physics and engineering).
    (b) If the model/equations are not tractable, develop a computer code and/or use standard software/programming languages (e.g., Matlab, Maple, Python) to numerically simulate the model system.
  4. Intelligently analyze, interpret, and assess the reasonableness of the answers obtained and/or the model’s predictions.
  5. Effectively communicate their findings (either verbally and/or via written expression) to diverse audiences.

In a laboratory setting, students should be able to:

  1. Design an appropriate experiment to test out a hypothesis of interest.
  2. Make basic order-of-magnitude estimates.
  3. Demonstrate a working familiarity with standard laboratory equipment (e.g., oscilloscopes, DMMs, signal generators, etc.).
  4. Identify and appropriately address the sources of systematic error and statistical error in their experiment.
  5. Have proficiency with standard methods of data analysis (e.g., graphing, curve-fitting, statistical analysis, Fourier analysis, etc.).
  6. Intelligently analyze, interpret, and assess the reasonableness of their experimental results.
  7. Effectively communicate their findings (either verbally and/or via written expression) to diverse audiences.

Honors Requirements (All Tracks)


To be considered for departmental honors in one of the science majors, a student must:

  • Achieve a minimum grade point average of 10.5 in courses in the major.
  • Complete a one- or two-semester thesis project in which the student has demonstrated excellence by making a significant contribution to the progress of the research and by producing a thesis document judged to be of honors quality by the department.
  • Present an oral progress report at the end of the first semester of a two-semester thesis and a poster at the conclusion of either a one- or two-semester thesis in which the student clearly explains the rationale for the project and the conclusions drawn, engages the listener, and knowledgeably answers questions.
  • Attend at least six scientific seminars during the semester (each semester for a two-semester thesis) and submit a brief and clear summary of each.

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