The program in physics allows students to investigate the microscopic and the macroscopic through courses covering topics such as astronomy, nuclear physics, classical mechanics, modern physics, and quantum mechanics.
The B.S. in Physics is a curriculum designed to prepare students for graduate school in physics. The B.S. in Physics also provides adequate preparation for traditional physics professions in the private sector, the military, academia and national laboratories. Physicists work in industries including construction, education, energy, defense, finance, law, medical, music, space, sports, television, transportation, and even video game development.
For those interested in a career in aerospace, structural civil, electrical, or mechanical engineering, the degrees offered in Physics, both B.A. and B.S., nicely complement the Five-Year Dual Degree Program in Engineering with the University of Notre Dame.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required | ||
| PHYS 121 | General Physics I: Mechanics and Waves | 4 |
| PHYS 122 | General Physics II: Temperature, Electricity, and Light | 4 |
| PHYS 253 | General Physics III: Modern Physics | 3 |
| PHYS 323 | Classical Mechanics | 3 |
| PHYS 343 | Thermodynamics | 3 |
| PHYS 424 | Quantum Mechanics | 3 |
| PHYS 444 | Electricity and Magnetism | 3 |
| PHYS 495 | Senior Seminar | 1 |
| Select two of the following: | 2 | |
| Computational Physics Laboratory | ||
| Modern Experimental Laboratory | ||
| Wave Mechanics Laboratory | ||
| Required Supporting Courses | ||
| CHEM 121 & 121L | Principles of Chemistry I and Principles of Chemistry I Laboratory | 4 |
| CHEM 122 & 122L | Principles of Chemistry II and Principles of Chemistry II Laboratory | 4 |
| CPSC 207 | Computer Programming | 3 |
| MATH 131 & MATH 132 | Calculus I and Calculus II for STEM majors | 8 |
| or MATH 133 | Theory and Application of Calculus | |
| MATH 231 | Calculus III | 4 |
| MATH 326 | Linear Algebra and Differential Equations | 4 |
| Elective Courses | ||
| Select additional 200+ level technical electives in science, computer science, mathematics, or engineering to total 60 credit hours | 8 | |
| Total Credits | 61 | |
The Senior Comprehensive requirement in Physics is fulfilled by successfully completing two presentations, one in a poster format and one 15 minute oral presentation. Both are given in the second semester of the senior year and include a question and answer period with faculty. The topic of the presentation may be based on experimental laboratory research performed at Saint Mary’s or at another institution, or literature research on an approved topic. Emphasis is placed on explaining the physics of the research. An abstract of the topic is also required prior to the oral presentation.
Each student writes a formal paper consisting of a technical discussion of the relevant physical principles, mathematics and methods related to her oral comprehensive presentation. These are normally submitted during the first semester of the senior year.
Upon graduation, students will be able to:
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