Program Overview
Physics and Philosophy Program
The Physics and Philosophy program at Yale University is designed for students who wish to pursue a comprehensive education in both physics and philosophy. This interdisciplinary program allows students to explore the fundamental principles of physics and the philosophical underpinnings of scientific inquiry.
Overview
The program is directed by David Poland (Physics) and Daniel Greco (Philosophy). Prospective majors are advised to begin taking prerequisites during their first year and to take at least two required philosophy courses by the end of their sophomore year.
Prerequisites
- MATH 1200
- PHYS 1700, 1710, or higher
- PHYS 1650L, 1660L, or PHYS 2050L
Requirements of the Major
Students are held to the requirements in place when they declared their major. However, with approval from the Director of Undergraduate Studies (DUS), updated requirements may be fulfilled by students who declared the major in a prior term. Beyond the prerequisites, students take 15 courses for 14.5 course credits, including the senior requirement.
Specific Requirements
- PHYS 2060L
- PHYS 4000 or equivalent
- PHYS 4390 or PHYS 4400
- 5 additional physics courses numbered 3000 or higher
- PHIL 1125
- PHIL 1126
- 4 additional courses in PHIL or HSHM
- including 1 logic course above the introductory level
- including 1 philosophy seminar
Senior Requirement
- For the B.S. degree: PHYS 4710 and/or PHYS 4720 (only one of which may count toward the 8 required physics courses)
- For the B.A. degree: PHIL 4490 or PHIL 4491, PHIL 4480 on an appropriate topic, or an approved philosophy seminar
Credit/D/Fail and Outside Credit
- At most, one course taken Credit/D/Fail may be applied toward the major with permission of the DUSs.
- Physics courses must be taken for a letter grade to count towards the major, including prerequisites.
- Courses taken at another institution or during an approved summer or term-time study abroad program may count toward the major requirements with DUS approval.