Physics Major

Students interested in pursuing the Physics major, Physics with the Computer Science or Engineering Specialization, or the 4-2 Engineering Program have two options open to them for their first year. Students interested in 3-2 or 3-3 Engineering programs must pursue Option 1 to complete either dual-degree program on time.

Option 1: For students who place into or above MAT-1117 (Calculus 1):

• In the Fall: Students should enroll in PHY-1114 (General Physics 1) and the associated laboratory course (PHY-1014), as well as MAT-1117 (Calculus 1) or higher, based on placement.
• In the Spring: Students should take PHY-1115 (General Physics 2) and the associated laboratory course (PHY-1015) and the next applicable Mathematics course.

Option 2: For students who place below MAT-1117 (Calculus 1):

• In the Fall: Students should enroll in PHY-1104 (Introductory Physics 1) and the associated laboratory course (PHY-1004), as well as MAT-1107 (College Algebra and Trigonometry)
• In the Spring: Students should enroll in PHY-1105 (Introductory Physics 2) and the associated laboratory course (PHY-1005), as well as MAT-1117 (Calculus 1)

Notes for Option 2:
(A) If a student places into MAT 1001 or 1002, that student needs to be on path to enroll in MAT-1117 (Calculus 1) by the Fall of the Sophomore year. Students in this circumstance are going to need special mentoring and should be directed to the Chair of the Physics Department for further planning as soon as possible.

(B) Both PHY-1104 and PHY-1105 (Introductory Physics 1 and 2) count as electives in the Physics Major, so students in those classes and who considering majoring in Physics, will be on a reasonable path to complete the Physics degree by their Senior year.

AP Exams:           AP Physics 1 score of 4 or 5 is equivalent to a 4-credit GSC-SIE course
                            AP Physics 2 score of 4 or 5 is equivalent to a 4-credit GSC-SIE course
                            AP Physics C: Mechanics score of 4 or 5 is equivalent to PHY 1114 (General Physics I)
                            AP Physics C: E&M score of 4 or 5 is equivalent to PHY 1115 (General Physics II)