College of Science
Curricula in Physics
Physics is the science which investigates and tries to understand the basic laws of nature. In this pursuit, it deals with the entire range of natural phenomena from the smallest domain of particles and strings to the largest domain of distant objects in the universe.
This breadth of interests is reflected in the type of work pursued by physicists. Some physicists are interested in research on problems which are at the frontiers of knowledge. Some apply this newly acquired knowledge to make practical advances. Still others use a knowledge of physics as a basis for careers in teaching or administration.
The Department of Physics offers training in physics leading to the degrees of Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy.
The B.A. curriculum provides the student with a firm foundation in physics but allows great flexibility in the choice of a large number of elective courses. Thus, the person with a B.A. in Physics will not have the full complement of undergraduate physics courses but will be able to acquire an in-depth knowledge of at least one other major academic area of his or her choice. A B.A. in Physics provides excellent preparation for a career in physics teaching.
The B.S. curriculum is designed primarily for students who intend to pursue graduate work in physics or other highly technical fields or for those who intend to go directly into industrial positions as professional physicists.