Dec 10, 2024  
2023-2024 General Catalog 
    
2023-2024 General Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]


Physics, BS



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The B.S. program is a thorough introduction to the principles of physics, providing a strong foundation for graduate study or industrial research. It is also intended for those students who wish to prepare for interdisciplinary studies on the graduate level in fields such as astronomy, atmospheric science, biophysics, environmental science, geophysics, materials science, and physical oceanography.

Program Learning Outcomes


Students are required to demonstrate:

  1. Knowledge, understanding and use of the principles of physics and/or astronomy
  2. Ability to use reasoning and logic to define a problem in terms of principles of physics
  3. Ability to use mathematics and computer applications to solve physics and/or astronomy problems
  4. Ability to design and/or conduct experiments and/or observations using principles of physics and/or astronomy and physics or astronomical instrumentation
  5. Ability to properly analyze and interpret data and experimental uncertainty in order to make meaningful comparisons between experimental measurements or observation and theory
  6. Effectiveness in communication of science, including reading with understanding, and both written and oral communication 

Degree Requirements


See the “Degree Requirements ” in the University Catalog for complete details on general degree requirements.

General Education Requirements (48 units)

See the “General Education Program ” requirements in the University Catalog for information on General Education requirements. Some major requirements may double count for GE requirements.

Capstone Requirement


It is expected that students take PHYS 491 Capstone Preparatory Seminar  in the same semester as they complete their capstone course.

Upper Division Physics Requirements


(Not required for Astrophysics concentration)

Physics Electives


To complete the 72 units required for the major, students must choose the remaining units from other upper division physics or astronomy courses including the recommended PHYS 491 - Capstone Preparatory Seminar. ASTR 303, ASTR 305, ASTR 331 and ASTR 350 are not allowed as electives for the BS-Physics General. ASTR 396 & PHYS 396 selected topics courses, will only apply if approved by an advisor. Astronomy courses may not double count towards the Physics Major and the Astronomy Minor. PHYS 494 can be taken three times for a maximum of three units.

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