Physics
The Physics major introduces you to a world of experimental, observational, and theoretical studies of the physical nature of God's universe. Courses in general physics, optics, thermodynamics, electrodynamics, theoretical mechanics, astronomy, modern physics and quantum mechanics provide the student with a basic understanding of the nature of the physical universe. A Christian worldview is stressed. This major provides the necessary background to work in industry as a physicist or physical scientist, while opening the door of opportunity for graduate work in all areas of physics and related disciplines including astrophysics, biophysics, medical physics, atmospheric physics, geophysics, nuclear physics, meteorology, and astronomy. Students collaborate with Ph.D. faculty in on-going research projects, with view toward publication of the results. Involvement in summer research opportunities is encouraged. An astrophysics option is available including two semesters of astronomy and involvement in research related to binary stars.
Curriculum Highlights
- Freshman
- Physics Survey
- Transcendental Functions
- Calculus I
- Sophomore
- General Physics I & II
- Calculus II & III
- Junior
- Experimental Physics
- Theoretical & Applied Mechanics I & II
- Thermodynamics & Statistical Mechanics
- Differential Equations
- Optics
- Modern Physics
- Senior
- Electricity & Magnetism I & II
- Introduction to Quantum Mechanics I & II
- X-ray Diffraction Analysis
- Research in Physics or Astronomy
For further details see complete major information:
Physics Personal Opportunity Profile
You may also contact Admissions (1.800.BJ.AND.ME) to receive a printed copy of this information.
Key Courses
General Physics This core course covers all the standard topics of physics from kinematics and dynamics to thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, waves and optics, and an introduction to modern physics. In the laboratory, you will learn how to collect precision data and perform real-time data interpretation with computers.
Modern Physics This course investigates the elementary structure of matter, Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity, the nature of radioactivity, and the issues involved in estimating the age of the earth.
Optics Textbook and laboratory combine to provide both theoretical understanding and practical experience with optical systems.
Career Opportunities
Most physics majors pursue graduate studies, and our students have been accepted at numerous universities around the country. Career paths open to physics majors are very diverse, including the sampling listed below. Visit the American Physical Society at www.aps.org for more information about careers in physics.
- Astrophysics
- Biophysics
- Nuclear and particle physics
- Solid state physics
- Astronomy
- Optics
- Engineering
- Geophysics
- Materials science
- Meteorology