The sample schedules illustrate three possible pathways for students to complete the major while complying with all pre-requisite requirements. Students who are contemplating a Physics or Physics with Astronomy emphasis major are encouraged to consult with a Physics and Astronomy faculty member at an early stage to plan a schedule that fits their situation.

Sample schedule 1: Physics major started in the first year.

 

Fall

Spring

First Year

MATH 137
Applied Multivariable Calculus II
PHYS 226
Principles of Physics I

MATH 237
Applied Multivariable Calculus III
PHYS 227
Principles of Physics II

Sophomore

MATH 236
Linear Algebra
PHYS 331
Modern Physics

MATH 312
Differential Equations
PHYS 348
Lab Instrumentation

Junior

PHYS 443
Electromagnetic Theory

PHYS 461
Classical Mechanics

Senior

PHYS 481
Quantum Mechanics

PHYS 468
Statistical Mechanics
PHYS 489
Senior Seminar

 

 

Sample schedule 2: Physics major started in the sophomore year.

 

Fall

Spring

First Year

 

 

Sophomore

MATH 137
Single Variable Calculus
PHYS 226
Principles of Physics I

MATH 236
Linear Algebra
MATH 237
Multivariable Calculus
PHYS 227
Principles of Physics II

 

Junior

MATH 312
Differential Equations
PHYS 331
Modern Physics
PHYS 443
Electromagnetic Theory

PHYS 461
Classical Mechanics
PHYS 348
Lab Instrumentation

Senior

PHYS 481
Quantum Mechanics

PHYS 468
Statistical Mechanics
PHYS 468
Senior Seminar

 

Sample schedule 3: Physics with Astronomy emphasis major.

 

 

Fall

Spring

First Year

MATH 137
Single Variable Calculus
PHYS 226
Principles of Physics I

MATH 237
Multivariable Calculus
PHYS 227
Principles of Physics II

Sophomore

MATH 236
Linear Algebra
PHYS 331
Modern Physics

MATH 312
Differential Equations
PHYS 440/460
Observational Astronomy or Astrophysics

Junior

PHYS 443
Electromagnetic Theory

PHYS 440/460
Observational Astronomy or Astrophysics
PHYS 461
Classical Mechanics

Senior

PHYS 481
Quantum Mechanics
(strongly recommended)

PHYS 468
Statistical Mechanics
PHYS 468
Senior Seminar