Program Overview

Physics, Bachelor of Science (BS) - Concentration in Computational Physics

Overview

The Physics, Bachelor of Science (BS) - Concentration in Computational Physics program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of core physics concepts, including mechanics, electromagnetism, thermal and statistical physics, and quantum mechanics. The program aims to equip students with the skills to use physical laws, mathematical and statistical techniques, and computational tools to model physical systems and solve complex problems across various domains in physics.

Program Learning Outcomes

• LO1: Graduates will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of core physics concepts, including mechanics, electromagnetism, thermal and statistical physics, and quantum mechanics.
• LO2: Graduates will be skilled in using physical laws, relevant mathematical and statistical techniques, and computational tools to model physical systems and solve complex problems across various domains in physics.
• LO3: Graduates will possess hands-on experience in designing, conducting, and analyzing experiments using appropriate laboratory equipment and techniques.
• LO4: Graduates will demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate complex physical concepts and results through oral presentations, written reports, and visual aids tailored to diverse audiences.
• LO5: Graduates will be capable of collaborating effectively within diverse, interdisciplinary teams and recognize the significance of professional integrity in scientific practices.

Curriculum Guide

GPA Requirement

• Major GPA: 2.00 or higher
• Overall GPA: 2.00 or higher

Summary

The program requires a minimum of 120 credits, including:

• Rock Studies 2 Requirements: 45 credits
• Other Basic Requirements: 0-3 credits
• Major/Concentration Requirements: 59 credits
• Natural Science and Math College-Wide Requirements: 12 credits
• Electives: 16 credits

Rock Studies 2 Requirements

• Foundations of Academic Discovery 1: 3 credits
• Critical Writing: 3 credits
• Critical Reading: 3 credits
• Calculus I: 4 credits
• Civil Discourse: Theory & Practice, Ethics and Civil Discourse, or Civil Discourse and Democracy: 3 credits
• Creative and Aesthetic Inquiry: 3 credits
• Humanities Inquiry: 3 credits
• Social Science Inquiry: 3 credits
• Natural Sciences Inquiry: 3 credits
• Physical Sciences Inquiry: 4 credits
• Thematic Thread: 12 credits

Basic Math Requirement

Students must complete one of the following:

• Meet required minimum SAT or ACT math score
• Beginning Algebra: 0-3 credits

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Requirement

Students must take and pass a course with the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) designation prior to graduation.

Major/Concentration Requirements

• Physics Core:
  • University Physics 2 with Lab: 4 credits
  • Classical Mechanics: 3 credits
  • Modern Physics: 3 credits
  • Advanced Physics Laboratory: 2 credits
  • Computational Physics: 3 credits
• Concentration in Computational Physics:
  • Mathematical Methods of Physics and Engineering: 3 credits
  • Thermal and Statistical Physics: 3 credits
  • Electricity and Magnetism: 3 credits
  • Quantum Mechanics: 3 credits
  • Independent Study: 2 credits
• Required Cognate Courses:
  • Calculus II: 4 credits
  • Calculus III: 4 credits
  • Linear Algebra: 3 credits
  • Differential Equations I: 3 credits
  • Applied Statistics: 3 credits
  • Programming Principles: 3 credits
• Required Technical Electives: minimum 10 credits

Natural Science and Math College-Wide Requirements

• General Chemistry I: 3 credits
• General Chemistry I Lab: 1 credit
• Calculus I: 4 credits
• University Physics 1 with Lab: 4 credits

Recommended Four-Year Plan

The plan outlines the courses to be taken each semester for four years, including:

• First Year: Foundations of Academic Discovery, Critical Writing, Calculus I, University Physics 1 with Lab, and other Rock Studies 2 Requirements
• Second Year: General Chemistry I, General Chemistry I Lab, Calculus II, Calculus III, and other major and Rock Studies 2 Requirements
• Third Year: Modern Physics, Computational Physics, Mathematical Methods of Physics and Engineering, and other major and elective courses
• Fourth Year: Independent Study, Quantum Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism, and other major and elective courses

Important Curriculum Guide Notes

This Curriculum Guide is provided to help students better understand their intended major curriculum. Students should note that the My Rock Audit may place already-earned and/or in-progress courses in different, yet valid, curriculum categories. Students should use the My Rock Audit Report and materials and information provided by their faculty advisers to ensure accurate progress towards degree completion. The information on this guide is current as of the date listed. Students are responsible for curriculum requirements at the time of enrollment at the University.