BS 3331 – Physics Major – Sample Curriculum (2024)

  • Sequence 1
  • Sequence 2
  • Sequence 3 (for students starting in Pre-calculus (MATH PL2) without any High School calculus)
  • Sequence 3 (for students starting in College Algebra or with MATH PL1)
  • Abbreviation codes
Sequence 1 (for students starting Calculus I)
Freshman Year Fall Hours

PHYS 1901 Physics Seminar 1

MATH 2301 Calculus 1 (ANCW) 4

UC 1900 Learning Community 1

COMS 1030 Speaking (BSL, BER, BDP) 3

Gen Ed class (FIE, ACNW, A&S-SS) 3

ENG 1510 Writing & Rhetoric (FWC) 3

Total 15

Freshman Year Spring Hours

PHYS 2054/2055 General Physics 1 (PNS) 4

MATH 2302 Calculus 2 (FQR) 4

Computer programming 4

Gen Ed class (PHTC, A&S-H) 3

Total 15

Sophom*ore Year Fall Hours

PHYS 2056/2057 General Physics 2 (ANW) 4

MATH 3300 Calculus 3 4

MATH 3200 Applied Linear Algebra 3

Foreign Language semester 1 4

Total 15

Sophom*ore Year Spring Hours

PHYS 2053 Contemporary Physics 3

PHYS 2701 Electronics Lab 2

MATH 3400 Elementary Differential Equations 3

Foreign Language semester 2 4
Extra-departmental Science requirement 3

Total 15

Junior Year Fall Hours

PHYS 3001 Classical Mechanics 4

PHYS 3701 Intermediate Lab 1 2

MATH 3600 Applied Numerical Methods 3

Advanced Writing (FAW, A&S-H) 3

Gen Ed class (PHA, A&S-H) 3

Total 15

Junior Year Spring Hours

PHYS 3011 Thermal Physics 3

PHYS 3702 Intermediate Lab 2 2

MATH 4410 PDEs & Fourier Analysis 3

Gen Ed class (PSBS, A&S-SS) 3

Elective(s) 4

Total 15

Senior Year Fall Hours

PHYS 4031 Electricity & Magnetism 1 3

PHYS 4021 Quantum Mechanics 3

Gen Ed class (A&S-SS) 3

Extra-departmental Science requirement 3

Elective 3

Total 15

Senior Year Spring Hours

PHYS 4032 Electricity & Magnetism 2 3

Capstone 3

Gen Ed elective (BLD) 3

Elective 3

Elective 3

Total 15

University General Education requirements (see list of abbreviations below) and Arts &Sciences distribution requirements can be taken in any order. Many classes (but not all) can “double dip” and complete several requirements with one class. The schedule above takes advantage of some of these.

Completion of a math minor is automatic (students only need to apply). By taking a few more Math courses it is possible to get a second major in Applied Math without much difficulty. Computer Science minors are also common.

Sequence 2 (for students starting in Pre-calculus but with some non-AP High School calculus – if you know what the derivative of x2 is, then this is probably you)
Freshman Year Fall Hours

PHYS 1901 Physics Seminar 1

MATH 1300 Pre-calculus (FQR) 4

UC 1900 Learning Community 1

COMS 1030 Speaking (BSL, BER, BDP) 3

Gen Ed class (FIE, ACNW, A&S-SS) 3

ENG 1510 Writing & Rhetoric (FWC) 3

Total 15

Freshman Year Spring Hours

PHYS 2054/2055 General Physics 1 (PNS) 4

MATH 2301 Calculus 1 (ANCW) 4

Computer programming 4

Gen Ed class (PHTC, A&S-H) 3

Total 15

Sophom*ore Year Fall Hours

PHYS 2056/2057 General Physics 2 (ANW) 4

MATH 2302 Calculus 2 4

MATH 3200 Applied Linear Algebra 3

Foreign Language semester 1 4

Total 15

Sophom*ore Year Spring Hours

PHYS 2053 Contemporary Physics 3

PHYS 2701 Electronics Lab 2

MATH 3400 Elementary Differential Equations 3

Foreign Language semester 2 4

MATH 3300 Calculus 3 4

Total 16

Junior Year Fall Hours

PHYS 3001 Classical Mechanics 4

PHYS 3701 Intermediate Lab 1 2

MATH 3600 Applied Numerical Methods 3

Advanced Writing (FAW, A&S-H) 3

Gen Ed class (PHA, A&S-H) 3

Total 15

Junior Year Spring Hours

PHYS 3011 Thermal Physics 3

PHYS 3702 Intermediate Lab 2 2

MATH 4410 PDEs & Fourier Analysis 3

Gen Ed class (PSBS, A&S-SS) 3

Extra-departmental Science requirement 4

Total 15

Senior Year Fall Hours

PHYS 4031 Electricity & Magnetism 1 3

PHYS 4021 Quantum Mechanics 3

Gen Ed class (A&S-SS) 3

Extra-departmental Science requirement 3

Elective 3

Total 15

Senior Year Spring Hours

PHYS 4032 Electricity & Magnetism 2 3

Capstone 3

Gen Ed elective (BLD) 3

Elective 3

Elective 3

Total 15

University General Education requirements (see list of abbreviations below) and Arts &Sciences distribution requirements can be taken in any order. Many classes (but not all) can “double dip” and complete several requirements with one class. The schedule above takes advantage of some of these.

Completion of a math minor is automatic (students only need to apply). By taking a few more Math courses it is possible to get a second major in Applied Math without much difficulty. Computer Science minors are also common.

Sequence 3 (for students starting in Pre-calculus (MATH PL2) without any High School calculus)
Freshman Year Fall Hours

PHYS 1901 Physics Seminar 1

MATH 1300 Pre-calculus (FQR) 4

UC 1900 Learning Community 1

COMS 1030 Speaking (BSL, BER, BDP) 3

Gen Ed class (FIE, ACNW, A&S-SS) 3

ENG 1510 Writing & Rhetoric (FWC) 3

Total 15

Freshman Year Spring Hours

PHYS 2001 College Physics 1 (PNS)* 4

MATH 2301 Calculus 1 (ANCW) 4

Computer programming 4

Gen Ed class (PHTC, A&S-H) 3

Total 15

Sophom*ore Year Fall Hours

PHYS 2056/2057 General Physics 2 (ANW) 4

MATH 2302 Calculus 2 4

MATH 3200 Applied Linear Algebra 3

Foreign Language semester 1 4

Total 15

Sophom*ore Year Spring Hours

PHYS 2053 Contemporary Physics 3

PHYS 2701 Electronics Lab 2

MATH 3400 Elementary Differential Equations 3

Foreign Language semester 2 4

MATH 3300 Calculus 3 4

Total 16

Junior Year Fall Hours

PHYS 3001 Classical Mechanics 4

PHYS 3701 Intermediate Lab 1 2

MATH 3600 Applied Numerical Methods 3

Advanced Writing (FAW, A&S-H) 3

Gen Ed class (PHA, A&S-H) 3

Total 15

Junior Year Spring Hours

PHYS 3011 Thermal Physics 3

PHYS 3702 Intermediate Lab 2 2

MATH 4410 PDEs & Fourier Analysis 3

Gen Ed class (PSBS, A&S-SS) 3

Extra-departmental Science requirement 4

Total 15

Senior Year Fall Hours

PHYS 4031 Electricity & Magnetism 1 3

PHYS 4021 Quantum Mechanics 3

Gen Ed class (A&S-SS) 3

Extra-departmental Science requirement 3

Elective 3

Total 15

Senior Year Spring Hours

PHYS 4032 Electricity & Magnetism 2 3

Capstone 3

Gen Ed elective (BLD) 3

Elective 3

Elective 3

Total 15

* PHYS 2001 is not, strictly a requirement, for the program, but you will learn Physics equivalent to PHYS 2051. You will then proceed directly (by permission) to PHYS 2056/2057 where you will prove that you can handle physics with Calculus and the more rigorous labs.

University General Education requirements (see list of abbreviations below) and Arts &Sciences distribution requirements can be taken in any order. Many classes (but not all) can “double dip” and complete several requirements with one class. The schedule above takes advantage of some of these.

Completion of a math minor is automatic (students only need to apply). By taking a few more Math courses it is possible to get a second major in Applied Math without much difficulty. Computer Science minors are also common.

Sequence 3 (for students starting in College Algebra or with MATH PL1)
Freshman Year Fall Hours

PHYS 1901 Physics Seminar 1

MATH 1200 College Algebra 4

UC 1900 Learning Community 1

COMS 1030 Speaking (BSL, BER, BDP) 3

Gen Ed class (FIE, ACNW, A&S-SS) 3

ENG 1510 Writing & Rhetoric (FWC) 3

Total 15

Freshman Year Spring Hours

PHYS 2001 College Physics 1 (PNS)* 4

MATH 1300 Pre-calculus (FQR) 4

Computer programming 4

Gen Ed class (PHTC, A&S-H) 3

Total 15

Sophom*ore Year Fall Hours

PHYS 2002 College Physics 2 (ANW) 4

MATH 2301 Calculus 1 (ANCW) 4

Gen Ed class (PHA, A&S-H) 3

Foreign Language semester 1 4

Total 15

Sophom*ore Year Spring Hours

PHYS 2056/2057 General Physics 2 (ANW) 3

MATH 2302 Calculus 2 2

MATH 3200 Applied Linear Algebra 3

Foreign Language semester 2 4

MATH 3300 Calculus 3 4

Total 16

Junior Year Fall Hours

MATH 3400 Elementary Differential Equations 4

Gen Ed class (A&S-SS) 2

MATH 3600 Applied Numerical Methods 3

Advanced Writing (FAW, A&S-H) 3

Gen Ed class (PHA, A&S-H) 3

Total 15

Junior Year Spring Hours

PHYS 3011 Thermal Physics 3

PHYS 2053 Contemporary Physics 3

PHYS 2701 Electronics Lab 2

Gen Ed class (PSBS, A&S-SS) 3

Extra-departmental Science requirement 4

Total 15

Senior Year Fall Hours

PHYS 4031 Electricity & Magnetism 1 3

PHYS 4021 Quantum Mechanics 3

PHYS 3701 Intermediate Lab 1 3

PHYS 3001 Classical Mechanics 3

Gen Ed class (PHA, A&S-H) 3

Total 15

Senior Year Spring Hours

PHYS 4032 Electricity & Magnetism 2 3

Capstone 3

PHYS 3702 Intermediate Lab 2 3

MATH 4410 PDEs & Fourier Analysis 2

Gen Ed elective (BLD) 3

Total 15

* PHYS 2001 and 2002 are not, strictly a requirement, for the program, but you will learn Physics equivalent to PHYS 2054 and a solid introduction to PHYS 2056. You will then retake PHYS 2056/2057 to prove that you can handle physics with Calculus and the more rigorous labs.

University General Education requirements (see list of abbreviations below) and Arts & Sciences distribution requirements can be taken in any order. Many classes (but not all) can “double dip” and complete several requirements with one class. The schedule above takes advantage of some of these.

Completion of a math minor is automatic (students only need to apply). By taking a few more Math courses it is possible to get a second major in Applied Math without much difficulty. Computer Science minors are also common.

General Education abbreviation not covered by required major courses

FWC = Foundations – Written Communication (University Requirement)

FAW = Foundations – Advanced Writing (University Requirement)

FQR = Foundations – Quantitative Reasoning (University Requirement)

FIE = Foundations – Intercultural Explorations (University Requirement)

PHTC = Pillars – Humanities: Texts & Contexts (University Requirement)

PHA = Pillars – Humanities: Arts (University Requirement)

PNS = Pillars – Natural Sciences (University Requirement)

PSBS = Pillars – Social or Behavioral Sciences (University Requirement)

ACSW = Arches – Constructed World (University Requirement)

ANW = Arches – Natural World (University Requirement)

ACNW = Arches – Connected World (University Requirement)

BSL = Bridges – Speaking & Listening (University Requirement)

BER = Bridges – Ethics & Reasoning (University Requirement)

BDP = Bridges – Diversity & Practice (University Requirement)

BLD = Bridges – Learning & Doing (University Requirement)

A&S-H = Arts & Sciences Humanities distribution requirement (College Requirement for 9 hrs)

A&S-SS = Arts & Sciences Social Sciences distribution requirement (College Requirement for 9 hrs)

A&S-NS = Arts & Sciences Natural Science distribution requirements (covered by MATH courses)

Updated: June 2024

BS 3331 – Physics Major – Sample Curriculum (2024)

FAQs

What is the hardest undergraduate physics class? ›

Quantum Physics/Mechanics:

Quantum physics/mechanics deals with very small particles like atoms and subatomic particles and how they work. Because this course deals in the abstract, many students struggle. This really is one of those courses that you either understand, or you don't.

Is a bachelor's degree in physics worth it? ›

Physics is a great degree that can take you in many career directions. Physics graduates are sought by government and industry employers for jobs in: telecommunications, electronics, computing, quality control testing, banking, insurance, teaching, management, technical sales and the armed forces.

Are physics majors in demand? ›

Are physics majors in demand? According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the growth rate for physicists and astronomers is 8% from 2021 to 2031 . This is faster than the average for all roles.

Does physics pay well? ›

Physicist Salaries in California

The estimated total pay for a Physicist is $251,451 per year in the California area, with an average salary of $163,285 per year.

What is the most dropped class in college? ›

Most Failed College Classes?
  1. Organic Chemistry — This course is known for its breadth and depth, and for requiring students to learn complex concepts at a fast pace and apply them to problem-solving. ...
  2. Physics — Calculus-based Physics can be tough due to the heavy application of mathematics and abstract concepts.
Mar 1, 2024

Why is physics class so hard? ›

The subject contains very complex concepts and sometimes acts like an experimental science. The calculations and formulas in physics problems can become pretty boring and serious. Concepts like potential energy, kinetic energy, vector quantities, scalar quantities, and hand rules are very difficult and confusing.

What branch of physics makes the most money? ›

High Paying Physics Jobs
  • Biophysicist. ...
  • Medical Physicist. ...
  • Senior Petrophysicist. ...
  • Physical Scientist. ...
  • Health Physics Technician. ...
  • Physical Science Technician. Salary range: $41,500-$65,000 per year. ...
  • Astrophysicist. Salary range: $31,500-$64,000 per year. ...
  • Physics Technician. Salary range: $26,000-$53,000 per year.

Where do most physics majors end up? ›

Common job titles for physics and engineering physics bachelor's degree recipients include:
  • Accelerator Operator.
  • Applications Engineer.
  • Data Analyst.
  • Design Engineer.
  • High School Physics Teacher.
  • IT Consultant.
  • Lab Technician.
  • Laser Engineer.

How much do physicists make at NASA? ›

Get feedback on your pay or offer

Create an anonymous post and get feedback on your pay from other professionals. The estimated total pay range for a Research Physicist at NASA is $135K–$200K per year, which includes base salary and additional pay. The average Research Physicist base salary at NASA is $156K per year.

Can you go into engineering with a physics degree? ›

Engineering: The largest percentage of graduates with a bachelor's degree in physics–who are hired into a STEM profession–find a job in an engineering field.

Which is the best field in physics? ›

In India, individuals with a strong background in physics are in demand in sectors like technology, aerospace, space sciences, energy, data science, and geological planning. Abroad, physicists find opportunities in fields such as space exploration, artificial intelligence, renewable energy and many others.

Are physics majors happy? ›

Overall, physics students rate their satisfaction with their degree a 3.6 out of 5. This is high compared to other degrees which average a rating of 3.28 across all degrees.

Which is the most difficult subject in physics? ›

Top 7 Hardest Topics in JEE Main Physics
  • Heat and Thermodynamics. It is probably the most difficult yet one of the important topics for JEE Main Physics. ...
  • Mechanics. ...
  • Electrostatics and Magnetism. ...
  • Current Electricity. ...
  • Optics. ...
  • Modern Physics. ...
  • Electromagnetic Induction. ...
  • Conclusion.

What is the hardest class in undergrad? ›

What are the Hardest College Classes?
  • Anatomy. College students who are seeking degrees in biology or a related field will likely encounter this entry on the “hardest college classes” list: human anatomy. ...
  • Economics. ...
  • Linguistics. ...
  • Organic chemistry. ...
  • Philosophy. ...
  • Statistics.

Is physics C or Physics 2 harder? ›

On the other hand, AP Physics C is calculus-based, delving deeper into mechanics and electricity & magnetism. It's generally considered more challenging due to the advanced math involved and the depth of physics topics covered.

Is Physics 1 or 2 harder in college? ›

While Physics 2 can be more challenging than Physics 1, it can also be more rewarding for students who want to delve further into physics concepts and applications.

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