Physics Major (B.S. in Physics) [offered through Honors Tutorial College]

Program Overview

The Honors Tutorial Bachelor of Science in Physics program provides exceptional students with individualized instruction through tutorials, fostering high-level problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of physics concepts. Students engage in independent research and pursue their interests in depth, preparing them for careers in research, industry, government, or teaching, as well as graduate study in astrophysics and related fields.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview:
The Honors Tutorial Bachelor of Science program in physics (offered by the Physics and Astronomy Department) provides unique opportunities for exceptional students. The physics major begins with a solid foundation in classical and modern physics leading to deeper study in more specialized areas including quantum mechanics, thermodynamcs, nuclear and elementary particle physics, and condensed matter physics.
• Objectives:
The program aims to develop students' high-level problem-solving skills, critical thinking abilities, and a deep understanding of physics concepts. It also prepares students for graduate study or careers in research, industry, government, or teaching.
• Description:
The program's core is the tutorial, where students study selected material under the guidance of a faculty member. Tutorials continue through all four years of the program, with the senior year devoted to research for a thesis. Students typically spend one-semester to one-third of their total time (and academic credit) in tutorials, the rest being in laboratories or in other required or elective classes.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods:
The program emphasizes individualized instruction through tutorials, where students work closely with faculty members.
• Faculty:
The program is taught by experienced and highly qualified faculty members in the Physics and Astronomy Department.
• Unique Approaches:
The program offers a unique opportunity for students to engage in independent research and pursue their interests in depth.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths:
Graduates with a B.S. in physics possess high-level problem-solving skills that can lead to opportunities for employment in research institutions, government, industry, or teaching.
• Opportunities:
The program prepares students for various roles, including research scientists, physicists, engineers, and science educators.
• Outcomes:
Graduates are well-prepared for graduate study in astrophysics and related fields.