Physics Major

Requirements for the Major

A major in Physics requires a minimum of 13 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 (only one required but both strongly recommended for the major)
• 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 advisor)
• PHYS 190L KS Advance Laboratory in Physics   (or PHYS106L KS Electronics Laboratory or equivalent)
• PHYS114 KS Quantum Mechanics with Computational Applications  
• PHYS115 KS Statistical Physics with Computational Applications  
• A one- or two-semester thesis in Physics (e.g. PHYS 188L KS and PHYS190L KS or PHYS189L KS and PHYS190L or PHYS191)

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, 106L, 109L; 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 are encouraged to take an additional advanced physics laboratory course. 

Dual Major in Physics

Dual majors in physics are required to complete all the requirements for a major in Physics, except for PHYS108 or equivalent, and one of 100, 101, 102, 114, 115.

Honors Requirements (All Tracks, where applicable)

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

• Achieve a minimum grade point average of 3.67 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.
• 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.