Physics and Astronomy

Physics in this century is a complex endeavor reflecting many centuries of experimentation and theory. It is an enterprise conducted by people who are stimulated by hopes and purposes that are universal: to understand and describe nature in its most elementary form. Physics and astronomy courses train students to carefully observe physical phenomena and to interpret the phenomena using synthesis, mathematical modeling and analysis. These methods represent a way of knowing that is central to the scientific method. The department is dedicated to teaching students with majors in science, as well as general science education in the liberal arts tradition.

Faculty

Mari-Anne M. Rosario, PhD, Professor, Chair
Jessica C. Kintner, PhD, Professor
Aaron Lee, PhD, Assistant Professor
Roy J. Wensley, PhD, Professor

Chris M. Ray, PhD, Professor Emeritus

Learning Outcomes

APPLY fundamental laws of physics – in the areas of classical mechanics, classical electricity and magnetism, and thermodynamics; and in modern physics, including statistical mechanics, special relativity, and quantum mechanics – to analyze and predict the behavior of physical systems.
DESIGN and CONDUCT experimental studies to apply and test physical ideas, and subsequently analyze and interpret the results.
USE computational methods for problem-solving and analytical thinking; as a means to acquire, analyze, interpret, and visualize large datasets; and as a tool to bridge theory and application.
COMMUNICATE scientific ideas - such as descriptions of physical principles, the theoretical analysis of physical systems, the methods and results of experiments, and the design and results of computational investigations - through presentations, written reports, and solved problems.
APPLY multiple methods of analysis in solving problems and interpreting experiments, be able to explain why a particular method or methods are best suited to address particular types of problems, and be adept at applying knowledge and skills from courses and disciplines outside of physics.

Major Requirements

Prerequisite Grade

Any course listed in this department with a prerequisite assumes a grade of C- or better in the prerequisite course.

Physics SSTE Credential Pathway

This major has an integrated Single Subject Teacher Education (SSTE) pathway to prepare future middle and high school classroom teachers. The integrated program of study enables students to graduate with their BAs and a CA teaching credential in 4 years. See Teacher Education: Single Subject Teacher Education Pathways for detailed information on credential courses.

Programs

Bachelor of Science

Physics, BS

Bachelor of Arts

Physics, BA

Minor

Physics Minor

Courses

Physics - Lower Division

Physics - Upper Division