2023-2024 BSC Catalog Updated_UG ONLY_FINAL[82]

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Physics
119
Bachelor of Science
Duane H. Pontius Jr., Mark E. Rupright
Physics majors fall into two categories: those who do not plan a career in physics but
may be interested, for example, in the teaching of physics in secondary schools, or
continuing their professional training in some area such as medicine or law; and those
who intend that the bachelor’s degree will be their terminal degree, or who plan to do
graduate work in physics or engineering.
Upon completion of the physics major, students will be able to
• develop mature intuitions regarding the motions and interactions of physical
bodies, including macroscopic objects, particles, and fields
• apply fundamental physical principles that accurately describe and predict the
outcome of experiments and other observed phenomena
• demonstrate competency using mathematical methods commonly used to solve
physics problems
• engage in an extended research project and present results to an appropriate
audience
Major Requirements
The following courses are required (14½ units):
CH 111 or CH 149
MA 231
MA 232
PH 121
PH 122
PH 201
PH 304
PH 305
PH 306
PH 310
PH 320
PH 402
PH 404
PH 410 or PH 499
one-half unit of PH 298, PH 398, or PH 498
Prospective majors are advised to complete MA 231 and MA 232 as soon as possible.
Students who expect to work professionally in the field of physics or attend graduate
school in physics or engineering should additionally take MA 310, MA 311, and PH 412.
Students wishing to prepare for teaching physics in secondary schools should complete
the physics major and confer with education program officials concerning additional
requirements in education.
Birmingham-Southern College Catalog 2023-2024