Department of Physics

Degree Programs and Courses

B.S. majors in Physics and Applied Physics are offered as well as a minor in Physics, a B.A. major (through the College of Liberal Arts), and a Teaching Physical Science major and minor (through the College of Education and Human Service Professions). There is also a certification program for teaching high school physics. However, the largest enrollments and teaching efforts are associated with the service courses to support engineering and other science programs. There are also courses offered for liberal education, largely for students outside the College of Science and Engineering.

• BS in Physics.
• BS in Applied Physics.
• BA in Physics.
• Physics minor.
• MS graduate program.
• Teaching Physics, 9-12:
  Students seeking a B.A. or B.S. in physics may enroll concurrently in secondary education licensure requirements in the Department of Education.
  • File a post-baccalaureate contract application for Physics 9-12 licensure.
  • Apply for admission to the Secondary Teacher Education Program.
  • For those completing the B.A. in physics and seeking licensure, include Phys 3061 as an elective.
• Physics courses offered.
• Courseware server for course materials.
• Computer technology recommendations for incoming students.
• Instructional facilities.
• Undergraduate honors program.
• Awards to undergraduates for academic and research excellence.

For entry before Fall 2002:

• BS in Physics.
• BS in Applied Physics.
• BA in Physics.
• Physics minor.

The department considers research to be important, not just for the work produced but also in the development of faculty expertise that makes a difference in teaching and in the opportunities for education for the undergraduate and graduate students who participate.

The department is dedicated to high standards, hard work, and a quality product. The successful careers of our graduates are evidence that our physics majors get a good education. We offer high-quality courses and good opportunities for practical experience in research. Junior and Senior students become increasingly interested in their work and begin to develop a mature professional attitude.

The research and professional spirit associated with the graduate program are important for the quality of the undergraduate program. Many undergraduates participate in research. They also benefit from the greater depth of courses extending into the graduate and research areas, and from the better use of faculty time resulting from employment of graduate teaching assistants.