Brockport / Catalogs / 2013-14 / Programs / Physics Major (BA/BS)

Physics Major

Physics Major

Description

Physics is the study of the physical properties of the universe and of the fundamental properties and interactions of matter and energy. Physics has applications in every field of pure and applied science, such as engineering, optics, materials science, space science, and medicine.

What can I do with a physics major?

Admission to the Program

Anyone can declare this major.

Program Requirements

Students in the physics major pursue either a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree, and must complete the corresponding degree's requirements.

Core Courses

  • PHS235
  • PHS240
  • PHS307
  • PHS325
  • PHS328
  • PHS332
  • PHS345
  • PHS350
  • PHS353
  • PHS361
  • PHS368
  • PHS403
  • PHS404
  • PHS411
  • PHS426
  • MTH201
  • MTH202
  • MTH203
  • MTH255
  • CHM205
  • CHM206
  • CPS201
  • One of the following coursees:
    • CPS202
    • CSC203

Total Number of Credits: 67-68

Student Learning Outcomes

  1. The student will internalize the basic concepts of physics and the ability to identify/solve problems about the physical world. Assessed in the supporting courses.
  2. The student shall demonstrate proficiency in the use of the principles of kinematics (motion in 1-, 2- and 3- dimensions).
  3. The student shall demonstrate proficiency in the use of the principle of conservation as it applies to energy and momentum.
  4. The student shall demonstrate proficiency in the use of the “center of mass” concept and its application to rigid body rotation.
  5. The student shall demonstrate proficiency in the use of the concepts underlying vibrational and oscillatory motion.
  6. The student shall demonstrate proficiency in the use of the concepts of static equilibrium.
  7. The student shall demonstrate proficiency in the use of the principles of fluid dynamics.
  8. The student shall demonstrate proficiency in the use of the principles of electricity and magnetism.
  9. The student shall demonstrate proficiency in the use of the concepts of thermodynamics.
  10. The student shall demonstrate proficiency in the use of the concepts of the kinetic molecular theory.
  11. The student shall demonstrate proficiency in the application of non-inertial frames of reference.
  12. The student shall demonstrate proficiency in the use of Newtonian and LaGrangian mechanics.
  13. The student shall demonstrate proficiency in the use of vector fields, transformations, and wave equations.
  14. The student shall demonstrate proficiency in the use of the concept of special relativity.
  15. The student shall demonstrate proficiency in the use of the concept of wave/particle duality.
  16. The student shall demonstrate an understanding of the quantum mechanical description of physical systems including the atom.
  17. The student shall demonstrate proficiency in the use of the techniques of data organization, report writing and oral presentation of technical reports.

Course Descriptions

Department of Physics

Department Chair: Stanley Radford
Location: Smith 119
Visit Website
Email: kmogle@brockport.edu
Phone: (585) 395-2182
Fax: (585) 395-5805

Related Programs

Other Undergraduate Programs


    
Faculty & Staff

    


Thomas A Henderson Ph.D
 (University Of Rochester)  
Lecturer
Mark J Hirsch Ph.D
 (Cornell University)  
Lecturer
Trevor  Johnson-Steigelman Ph.D
 (University Of Wisconsin-Milwaukee)  
Visiting Assistant Professor
Karen S Mogle 
Secretary 1
Eric M Monier Ph.D
 (University Of Pittsburgh-Main Campus)  
Associate Professor
Stanley F Radford Ph.D
 (Wayne State University)  
Professor + Chair
Russell W Simpson Ph.D
 (Rice University)  
Lecturer
Stephanie L Sublett Ph.D
 (University Of Rochester)  
Lecturer
Mohammed Z Tahar Ph.D
 (Boston University)  
Associate Professor
Ronald  Zarbo 
Electronic Equipment Mechanic