Catalogue 2012/13

Physics and Astronomy

Undergraduate Degrees

Bachelor of Science in Physics

This program is intended primarily for students who are interested in a career in physics.

Bachelor of Science in Astronomy

This program is intended primarily for students who are interested in a career in astronomy.

Bachelor of Science in Physics/Computer Science

This program is intended for students with dual interests in physics and computer science who wish to complete the essential courses for both majors within their normal four-year career.

Bachelor of Arts in Physics

This program is intended for students with an interest in physics who may not intend to pursue a career in physics.

Bachelor of Arts in Astronomy

This program is intended for students with an interest in astronomy who may not intend to pursue a career in the field.

Bachelor of Science in Biophysics

This program is intended for students with an interest in the interdisciplinary field of biophysics. The degree program provides the physics and biology background necessary for the field while simultaneously fulfilling medical school entrance requirements.

Bachelor of Science in Physical Sciences

This program is intended for students with an interest in the physical sciences. The program is designed to allow students interested in teaching at the secondary level to enroll in courses required for the California Single Subject Teaching credential offered through the School of Education.

Department Requirements for a Minor in Physics

The physics minor is open to all students. Engineering students must take a minimum of three upper division courses unique to the minor.

Department Requirements for a Minor in Astronomy

The astronomy minor is open to all students. A minimum of three courses taken toward the minor must be unique to the minor.

Grade Point Average in Major Subject

A GPA of C (2.0) or higher is required in all upper division courses taken in the department for all of the above major degree programs. A grade of C (2.0) or higher is required in all courses in the department specifically listed as subject requirements.

Advisement

Advisement is required for all B.S. and B.A. degree candidates in the department. Students should meet with their departmental academic adviser at least once a semester to review the direction of their academic programs. Students who have not met with an adviser should contact the director of undergraduate affairs. Students are also encouraged to seek the advisement of faculty members whose specializations are appropriate to their intended field of graduate study.

Undergraduate Research Opportunities

Students are encouraged to become familiar with the research programs of the faculty in the department. Students who intend to pursue a Ph.D. and a career in research in physics or astronomy following graduation are strongly encouraged to become involved directly in one of the research programs, whether as summer research assistants or as part-time laboratory assistants during the academic year. Specific research opportunities will depend upon individual faculty research programs.

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