Physics and Astronomy

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Purpose and Focus

The Bachelor of Science in Physics provides students with preparation for governmental or industrial positions or for graduate studies in physics or related areas. The Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics is designed to introduce the major branches of physics to those seeking double degrees and for those preparing for professions other than physics. The Bachelor of Science in Computational Physics is intended to train students with the state-of-the-art knowledge in physics and scientific computing for either professional positions or graduate studies in computational physics or related areas.

Degree Objectives/Learning Outcomes

At the completion of the physics degree programs, students should have developed rigorous communication, analytical, computing, problem solving, and team-work skills.

Accreditation

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Undergraduate Majors

Applied Physics
Computational Physics
Physics

Admission to the Major

Admission Policies

Minimum GPA: 2.00

Students unable to meet the 2.50 GPA requirement may be admitted under contract on a probationary basis, and no students with GPAs less than 2.30 will be admitted.

Transfer Policies

A student transferring from another college or university who declares a major in Physics, Applied Physics, or Computational Physics must meet university GPA requirements.

Department Policies

Academic Policies

For all majors in the programs offered by the Department of Physics and Astronomy, a grade of C or higher is required in each of the Physics Core Requirements. In addition, before enrolling in any major requirement courses, the student must have completed all course prerequisites with a grade of C or higher.
 

A probationary student must plan a prescribed course of study in physics in consultation with the faculty advisor assigned by the Department of Physics and Astronomy. Only after the course of study is signed by the advisor, may the Department Chair allow the student to register for courses. The student must maintain a GPA of at least 2.50 in the courses taken while on probation. Otherwise, the student will be dropped from the physics program. When the student’s overall GPA rises to 2.50, the student is taken off probation. Refer to the College of Sciences section for further requirements.
 

Advisement

It is required that all incoming freshmen and transfer students obtain advising from the College of Sciences Advising Center and meet with the Chair of the Department of Physics and Astronomy prior to the first semester of classes. As well, those students with any questions regarding degree requirements and graduation applications should contact the Advising Center. All students majoring in Physics, Applied Physics, or Computational Physics will also be assigned a faculty advisor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy. Students must meet with their advisor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at least once a semester.

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