Physics
Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
Physics is the most fundamental of sciences. Physicists seek to discover the laws that govern the behavior of material objects and waves, and the interactions between particles. Application of these universal laws to systems ranging from atoms and molecules to clusters of galaxies gives rise to challenging problems whose solutions require creative insight alongside logical rigor and mathematical reasoning.
The study of physics helps students to understand the scientific method and its implications— how to make rational inferences from data and how to test hypotheses critically. It also leads to an appreciation of the aesthetic dimensions of a scientist’s work and the interrelationship of physics with other areas of knowledge and its technological applications. This aspect is particularly emphasized in courses intended for distribution.
Courses in the department are designed to develop the student’s competence in those fundamental areas of classical and modern physics that have played an important role in the evolution of physics. Familiarity with the art of scientific experimentation is provided through laboratory work that complements the study of theoretical principles. Computation — the third mode of “doing physics”— is emphasized at all levels.
The Physics Department prepares its majors for any career where problem-solving skills are required. Popular post-graduation options include graduate study in physics or engineering, industrial research, secondary school teaching, and professional careers in engineering, medicine, information technology, cybersecurity, data analytics, and business/finance.
PHY 100 and PHY 105 Astronomy with Lab are designed to serve the needs of students wishing to take a science course to meet distribution requirements. PHY 101 College Physics I with Lab and PHY 102 College Physics II with Lab are designed as an algebra-based year-long introductory physics sequence for students interested in life sciences and healthcare professions, though they will also satisfy the college distribution requirements. PHY 111 General Physics I with Lab and PHY 112 General Physics II with Lab are designed as a calculus-based year-long introductory physics sequence for students interested in Physics, Engineering, and Chemistry. PHY 100 Concepts in Contemporary Physics W/ Lab, PHY 101 College Physics I with Lab, PHY 102 College Physics II with Lab, and PHY 105 Astronomy with Lab do not assume any special mathematics or science preparation beyond high school algebra and trigonometry.