Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics
The Physics major provides baseline preparation either for graduate school or for the technical job market. Our physics program is designed to prepare graduates who will: 1) develop successful careers relating to the study and advancement of our understanding of physics; 2) continue to develop their technical and professional skills throughout their careers; 3) display unwavering high ethical standards; and 4) contribute to the needs of, and in other ways enhance, their local communities and the world at large. Physics majors are required to take Physics 200, 201, 202, 302, 353, 361, 491 and 492; Mathematics 121, 122, 201, 222 and 321; Chemistry 105 and 113; Computer Science 121; Engineering 210 and 263; and two of the following: Physics 221; Earth Science 275; Engineering 220, 310, 315, 321, 351, 352, 365 or 463. Physics majors may substitute Physics 200 for one of their Natural and Physical Science Core courses.
Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics Secondary Education
A Secondary Education major in Physics is offered in conjunction with the Education Department and leads to Pennsylvania teacher certification at the secondary level. Our physics education program is designed to prepare graduates who will: 1) develop successful careers teaching secondary physics; 2) maintain their study of current work in theoretical and applied physics and bring that knowledge into their classrooms throughout their careers; 3) continue to develop their pedagogical skills throughout their careers; 4) display unwavering high ethical standards; and 5) contribute to the needs of, and in other ways enhance, their local communities and the world at large. Required courses for this major are: Physics 200, 201, 202 and 221; Earth Science 113 or 114; Engineering 210 and 321; Chemistry 105 and 113; Biology 101 and 103; Mathematics 121, 122 and 222; Computer Science 121; Education 106, 151, 241, 305, 470, 490, 497, and Special Education 282. Education 161 or 162 also is recommended. Education certification also requires two English courses (one literature and one writing). The final professional portfolio (Education 490) must include two position papers on the ethical implications of contemporary physics. Physics Education majors may substitute Physics 200 for one of their Natural and Physical Science Core courses.
