Physics

PHYSICS DEGREES & PROGRAMS

BS - Physics

A Bachelor in Physics provides the student with an understanding of the laws of nature and with the experimental and analytical techniques necessary to describe and solve problems in physical systems. The degree prepares students for further graduate study in physics, astronomy, geophysics, medicine, engineering or many other diverse fields. Bachelor's recipients also find employment in a variety of industries and careers, including engineering, education, computer science, programming, electronics, energy and the environment, geology, medical physics, optics, finance, law and more.

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge of the core fields of physics-new including mathematics, classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism, thermodynamics, optics and wave phenomena, and modern physics-new (including quantum mechanics and relativity).
Skills in general laboratory procedures employed in scientific demonstrations and experimental work.
Knowledge and skills of basic research obtained by applying the scientific method of investigation in a capstone research experience (for those students intent on graduate degrees in science).
Knowledge of scientific procedures and background information in emphasis areas like engineering and medicine, etc., (for students interested in these areas).

Credits to Completion

120

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BS - Physics Education

Prepares the student to teach high school physics and AP physics. The program allows for those interested to supplement their studies with extra courses in physics or other science through elective upper division credit. A seminar course provides the student with exposure to careers in physics.

Learning Outcomes

Use modern scientific instruments and interpret results
Apply principles used in physics-new to solve everyday problems
Think analytically
Use problem solving skills
Categorize information
Apply learned math skills
Develop laboratory skills

Credits to Completion

120

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AS - Physical Science

Students interested in a physical science are encouraged to earn a baccalaureate degree (BS). The AS-PHSC degree is meant to prepare students on the path to a physical science baccalaureate degree (BS) such as geology (BS-GEOL), physics (BS-PHYS), or chemistry (BS-CHEM).

Learning Outcomes

Develop broad foundational knowledge in the physical sciences by correctly using evidence, experiment and observation, interpretation, and physical concepts.
Demonstrate patterns of critical, scientific, and quantitative reasoning in application to problems or issues related to the physical sciences.
Follow practices necessary to safely and ethically use laboratory or other measurement equipment used in the physical sciences.
Graduate with a breadth of physical science knowledge enabling students to select and proceed with a BS degree program within the physical sciences.

Credits to Completion

60

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Minor - Physics

A minor in physics represents a substantial investment in mastering the basics of physics and gaining suitable problem solving skills that may then be applied to other disciplines.

Learning Outcomes

Fundamental knowledge of mathematics, classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism, thermodynamics, optics and wave phenomena, and modern physics-new (including quantum mechanics and relativity).
Basic laboratory skills to prepare demonstrations and to perform experiments.

Credits to Completion

20