Physics Major

Requirements for the Major

A major in Physics requires a minimum of 12 courses plus a senior thesis.

• PHYS033L KS  and PHYS034L KS Principles of Physics  
• Calculus sequence through multivariable calculus ( MATH032 SC )
• PHYS035 KS Modern Physics with Computational Applications  
• PHYS100 KS Computational Physics and Engineering  
• Differential Equations or Linear Algebra
• PHYS101 KS Classical Mechanics with Computational Applications  
• PHYS102 KS Electromagnetism  
• PHYS108 KS Programming for Science and Engineering  (or a computer science course chosen in consultation with a physics faculty adviser)
• PHYS114 KS Quantum Mechanics with Computational Applications  
• PHYS115 KS Statistical Physics with Computational Applications  
• PHYS191 KS , or ( PHYS188L KS  and PHYS190L KS ) or ( PHYS189L KS  and PHYS190L KS )

RECOMMENDED: An advanced physics laboratory course is highly recommended. Although students need only take Differential Equations or Linear Algebra for the major, taking both courses is useful.

NOTE:  Physics majors normally complete Physics 033L, 034L in their first year and Physics 035 in fall of sophomore year. The calculus sequence (through Math 032) is normally completed in fall of sophomore year or earlier. Students can then take (in any order) Physics 100, 102, 115, 108 or equivalent, differential equations and/or linear algebra. Physics 101 and Physics 114 should only be taken after completing differential equations or linear algebra. Majors interested in potentially pursuing experimental work should also take an advanced physics laboratory course.

Dual Major in Physics

Dual majors in physics are required to complete all the requirements for a minor in Physics , plus a senior thesis in physics (which may be on an interdisciplinary topic if approved by a physics faculty adviser).

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 11.0 (A-) in courses in the major.  
• Achieve a minimum grade of A- on the thesis.
• 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.